Nut-Free Pesto Panini

Satisfy your sandwich cravings with this Nut-Free Pesto Panini, a flavorful twist on a classic favorite that's perfect for lunch or a quick dinner. This recipe features a rich, homemade pesto made without nuts, combining fresh basil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a hint of lemon for a bright, zesty kick. The creamy mozzarella, juicy tomato slices, and vibrant spinach are layered on toasted ciabatta rolls, creating a harmonious balance of textures and flavors. Lightly brushed with olive oil and grilled to golden perfection, these paninis boast a crispy crust and gooey melted center. Ready in just 25 minutes, this nut-free, vegetarian delight is an excellent choice for anyone looking to enjoy a wholesome, allergy-friendly meal layered with fresh, bold ingredients.

Nutriscore Rating: 58/100

Prep Time:15 mins

Cook Time:10 mins

Total Time:25 mins

Servings: 4

Ingredients

• 2 cups Basil leaves
• 2 large Garlic cloves
• 0.5 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• 0.5 cup Extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 0.5 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 4 Ciabatta rolls
• 8 ounces Mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 2 medium Tomatoes, sliced
• 1 cup Spinach leaves
• 2 tablespoons Olive oil (for brushing)

Directions

Step 1

In a food processor, combine the basil leaves and garlic cloves. Pulse until finely chopped.

Step 2

Add in the grated Parmesan cheese, extra-virgin olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper to the basil mixture. Process until well blended and smooth to create the pesto. Adjust seasoning to taste.

Step 3

Slice the ciabatta rolls in half horizontally and spread about 2 tablespoons of the nut-free pesto on each bottom half.

Step 4

Layer mozzarella cheese slices, tomato slices, and spinach leaves on top of the pesto.

Step 5

Cover each sandwich with the top half of the ciabatta roll.

Step 6

Preheat a panini press or a grill pan over medium heat.

Step 7

Lightly brush the outside of each panini with olive oil to ensure a golden, crispy finish.

Step 8

Place the sandwiches on the panini press or the hot grill pan.

Step 9

Grill for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 10

Once cooked, remove from the press or pan, let cool slightly, then slice each panini in half and serve warm.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	1075.6 grams (1075.6g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	3010

Total Fat 215.60g	276%
Saturated Fat 62.80g	314%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.00g
Cholesterol 218mg	73%
Sodium 4927mg	214%
Total Carbohydrate 176.80g	64%
Dietary Fiber 12.90g	46%
Total Sugars 19.00g
Protein 97.20g	194%

Vitamin D 0IU	0%
Calcium 1782mg	137%
Iron 12mg	68%
Potassium 1367mg	29%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 63.9%

Protein: 12.8%

Carbs: 23.3%