Margherita Panini

Yet another Giada recipe...I'm a real fan of her yummy recipes. This is so easy and so good! I did some tweaking again...turned out great!

Margherita Panini

2 slices of rustic bread (I used panini bread, or ciabatta)
fresh mozzerella (I think her recipe said 2 slices...I used 3)
fresh tomato slices
fresh basil (her recipe does not say to slice, I say cut it into strips
salt
extra virgin olive oil



Preheat a stove top grill or grill pan (or panini press, if you have one!) over medium heat.


I drizzle the outside of my bread and LIGHTLY salt it with sea salt before I toast it. I think it gives it a crunchy-er texture that I like. Layer the fresh mozzerella (use the fresh-it is SO worth it!), then tomato slices, then the basil. You can top with an extra slice or two of mozzerella, if you like. Toast the panini, and press the panini while it is toasting on the preheated grill until the bread is golden and the cheese is slightly melted. I used my nifty Paula Deen bacon press on top of the panini, but you can use a heavy pan, brick wrapped in foil, etc.


Serve with a light herb salad, this panini is very filling!


Enjoy!