Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Spread
⏱️ Prep Time: 10 minutes • 🍳 Cook Time: 5 minutes (if toasting)
There’s nothing quite like a good caprese sandwich, and this one brings all the freshness you love—with an herby, garlicky pesto twist that takes it over the top. Whether you serve it cold or toasted, it’s layered with flavor and perfect for lunch, a picnic, or a casual summer dinner.
Juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil layered with pesto on toasty bread—it’s summer in every bite.
I’ve been obsessed with this sandwich since the first time I threw it together with leftover pesto. It’s the kind of thing that feels fancy, but takes just minutes to make. The contrast of textures—crispy bread, soft mozzarella, juicy tomato—is totally irresistible. And when the pesto starts to seep into the bread? Game over. If I’m not packing it up for a park lunch, I’m making it as a quick no-fuss dinner with a sparkling water and some chips on the side.
The beauty of a caprese sandwich is that it’s easy to riff on. You can toast it for a melty, panini-style vibe, or keep it cold and crisp for something super refreshing. I love using a crusty ciabatta or focaccia for that chewy, satisfying bite. It also holds up well if you make it ahead—just layer the pesto in a way that keeps the bread from getting soggy. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent but is actually made from super fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients
🍽️ Servings: 2 • 🔥 Calories/Serving: 410 • 💪 Protein/Serving: 14g
2 ciabatta rolls or your favorite bread
2 tbsp pesto
4 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
1 medium tomato, sliced
½ cup fresh basil leaves
Drizzle of olive oil
Salt & pepper, to taste
Steps
Step 1
Slice ciabatta rolls in half and toast lightly if desired.
Step 2
Spread 1 tbsp pesto on each bottom half of the rolls.
Step 3
Layer sliced mozzarella, tomato, and basil leaves on top.
Step 4
Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Step 5
Top with the other half of the bread and press gently.
Step 6
Serve immediately, or wrap for later.
Make it your own!
🧄 Add a garlicky kick
Rub the toasted bread with a raw garlic clove before assembling for extra depth.🥓 Add a protein boost
Layer in sliced grilled chicken, turkey, or crispy prosciutto for a heartier sandwich.🍞 Go gluten-free
Use your favorite gluten-free sandwich roll or wrap to keep it GF and still delicious.🧀 Make it melty
Toast the whole sandwich in a panini press or skillet for a warm, gooey version.
