Grilled Veggie & Burrata Panini

Grilled sandwiches are the epitome of comfort food, and this Grilled Veggie & Burrata Panini takes the classic panini to an entirely new level. Imagine biting into crispy, golden bread filled with smoky, charred vegetables and oozing, creamy burrata cheese—every bite is a perfect combination of textures and flavors.

This recipe is a fantastic way to elevate a simple sandwich into something truly gourmet. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a crowd-pleasing meal, this panini delivers a satisfying experience with every bite. The contrast of crisp grilled sourdough or ciabatta, perfectly roasted vegetables, and the indulgent burrata cheese makes this a must-try dish for cheese and sandwich lovers alike.

Read on to discover how to make the perfect Grilled Veggie & Burrata Panini, complete with step-by-step instructions, variations, helpful tips, and more!

Ingredients Needed for Grilled Veggie & Burrata Panini

To make this flavorful panini, you will need the following ingredients:

• 1 ciabatta or sourdough loaf (halved)
• 1 small zucchini (sliced into thin rounds)
• ½ red bell pepper (sliced into strips)
• ½ yellow bell pepper (sliced into strips)
• ½ eggplant (sliced into thin rounds)
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling vegetables and brushing bread)
• ½ tsp salt (to season the vegetables)
• ¼ tsp black pepper (for added depth of flavor)
• ½ tsp garlic powder (to enhance the savory profile)
• ½ tsp dried oregano (for an herby touch)
• 1 ball burrata cheese (torn into pieces)
• 1 tbsp balsamic glaze (optional, for drizzling)
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme (for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Grilled Veggie & Burrata Panini

Step 1: Grill the Vegetables

1. Preheat the grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. If using an outdoor grill, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
2. Prepare the vegetables by slicing the zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant into thin, even pieces for even cooking.
3. Toss the sliced vegetables in a bowl with olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and oregano until well coated.
4. Place the vegetables on the hot grill and cook for about 3-5 minutes per side, or until they are tender with slight charring.
5. Once done, remove from the grill and set aside while you prepare the bread.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

1. Cut the ciabatta or sourdough loaf in half and brush each side lightly with olive oil.
2. Place the bread halves on the grill and toast for about 1-2 minutes per side, until golden brown and marked with grill lines.
3. Remove from the grill and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the Panini

1. Start layering the grilled vegetables on one half of the toasted bread.
2. Tear the burrata cheese into smaller pieces and evenly distribute them over the grilled veggies.
3. Drizzle with balsamic glaze (if using) for added sweetness and depth of flavor.
4. Sprinkle fresh thyme over the sandwich to enhance its herby, aromatic taste.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwich (Optional)

1. If you prefer a warm, pressed panini, place the assembled sandwich back on the grill or in a panini press.
2. Grill for about 2 minutes, pressing gently to help melt the burrata and meld the flavors.
3. Remove from heat, slice, and serve immediately.

Variations

• Add Pesto: Spread a layer of pesto on the bread before assembling for an herby, garlicky punch.
• Use Different Cheese: Try swapping burrata for mozzarella, goat cheese, or brie for a unique twist.
• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, prosciutto, or turkey slices for extra protein.
• Spice It Up: Sprinkle red pepper flakes or add sliced jalapeños for a bit of heat.

Cooking Note

• Ensure vegetables are evenly sliced for uniform grilling.
• If using a panini press, apply gentle pressure to avoid over-squishing the burrata.
• If making ahead, grill the veggies in advance and assemble just before eating.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of mixed greens or arugula salad for a fresh contrast.
• Pair with a warm bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal.
• Serve alongside crispy sweet potato fries for a delicious combination.

Helpful Tips

• Use a high-quality bread like ciabatta or sourdough for the best texture.
• Let the burrata come to room temperature before assembling for better creaminess.
• Don’t overfill the panini to prevent it from becoming too messy when grilled.
• If you don’t have a grill, use a cast-iron skillet for a similar effect.

Prep Time: 10 minutes

Cooking Time: 15 minutes

Total Time: 25 minutes

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Calories: ~450 kcal
• Protein: ~15g
• Sodium: ~600mg

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the toasting step: Toasting the bread ensures it holds up against the creamy burrata and juicy vegetables.
• Overloading the panini: Too many ingredients can make the sandwich hard to eat and prevent proper grilling.
• Using too much oil: While oil is essential for grilling, too much can make the sandwich greasy.
• Not pressing the sandwich evenly: If using a panini press, apply gentle pressure to avoid flattening the sandwich too much.

Conclusion

The Grilled Veggie & Burrata Panini is a simple yet gourmet sandwich that is packed with flavors, textures, and indulgence. With smoky grilled vegetables, creamy burrata, and crispy golden bread, this panini is perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a fancy brunch option. Its versatility allows you to customize it based on your preferences, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion.

Try it out, experiment with the variations, and enjoy the deliciousness of this elevated grilled panini!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this panini without a grill?
A: Yes! You can use a stovetop grill pan or a regular skillet. A cast-iron pan works best to create a crispy, golden crust.

Q: Can I store leftovers?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can store grilled vegetables separately and assemble just before eating.

Q: Can I use different bread?
A: Absolutely! Try focaccia, whole grain bread, or even a baguette for different textures.accia, whole grain bread, or even a baguette for different textures.

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