Imagine biting into a sandwich that tastes like a burst of summer—ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, all drizzled with olive oil. I stumbled upon this Caprese combination during a trip to Italy, where every café seemed to serve their own version, each one more delicious than the last. Back home, I recreated it, adding my own sprinkle of pepper for a little kick—it’s simple, yet magical, and just might become your favorite go-to lunch.
Steps
- Begin by slicing your chosen bread, such as focaccia, baguette, or sourdough, in half. Lay a handful of fresh arugula on the bottom half of the bread.
- Cut fresh mozzarella cheese into slices and layer them over the arugula. Add slices of your chosen ripe tomatoes on top of the mozzarella.
- If desired, include roasted cherry tomatoes and pickled red onions for added flavor. These optional ingredients provide a burst of umami and tang.
- Place fresh basil leaves over the tomato layer. Drizzle extra-virgin olive oil over the sandwich filling, and season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Finish by placing the top half of the bread over the seasoned filling. If making a vegan version, substitute the mozzarella with sliced avocado and spread vegan pesto on the bread.
- For added texture, consider toasting the bread before assembly. Brush the cut sides with olive oil and toast until golden brown.
- Optionally, enhance the sandwich with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or glaze for a sweet and tangy finish.
- Wrap the sandwich in aluminum foil or a reusable wrap for transport, ensuring it stays together until ready to eat.
Ingredients
- 4 (3.5-inch) squares of focaccia, sliced in half
- Handful of arugula
- 1 (8-ounce) ball of fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- ? cup roasted cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Pickled red onions (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Flaky sea salt
- Freshly ground black pepper
FAQ
- What type of bread is best for a Caprese sandwich?
- Chewy, savory focaccia is a great choice for a Caprese sandwich, but fresh baguette, ciabatta rolls, and crusty sourdough are also excellent options.
- Can I make a vegan Caprese sandwich?
- Yes, you can create a vegan version by replacing the mozzarella with sliced avocado and spreading vegan pesto on the bread for added richness.
- What are some optional ingredients that can enhance the flavor of a Caprese sandwich?
- Roasted cherry tomatoes and pickled red onions are optional additions that can add bright, umami flavors to the sandwich.
- How can I prevent a Caprese sandwich from becoming soggy when making it ahead of time?
- Assemble the sandwich and wrap it in aluminum foil or a reusable sandwich wrap, or use a toothpick to hold it together. This way, it will maintain its structure and flavor for several hours.
- What are some suggested side dishes to serve with a Caprese sandwich?
- The sandwich pairs well with chips, fresh fruit, chopped veggies with dip like hummus, baba ganoush, or white bean dip. It also complements packable salads such as cucumber salad, broccoli salad, chickpea salad, or tabbouleh.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: Since the recipe is simple, each component stands out. Make sure to use fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, especially during the summer when these ingredients are at their peak.
- Season Thoughtfully: Don’t overlook the importance of seasoning. Salt and olive oil enhance the natural flavors of the tomatoes, while pepper adds a subtle kick. These elements are crucial for a well-balanced sandwich.
- Try Toasting the Bread: For added texture, brush the bread with olive oil and toast it until golden brown before assembling. This step can elevate the sandwich by adding a delightful crunch.
- Consider Variations: Experiment with variations like adding a drizzle of balsamic vinegar or using basil pesto for extra flavor. For a vegan option, substitute mozzarella with avocado and use vegan pesto.
Equipment
- Grill Pan (for toasting bread or making a grilled Caprese sandwich)
- Balsamic Glaze (if you don’t already have balsamic vinegar or glaze for drizzling)
- Reusable Sandwich Wraps (for packing the sandwich for picnics or lunches)
