Dinner

Grilled Veggie Panini

Name: Grilled Veggie Panini
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 small eggplant, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 2 tbsp olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 slices of sourdough or ciabatta bread; 4 tbsp pesto sauce; 4 slices mozzarella or provolone cheese; Butter, for grilling

Bysarra July 24, 2025

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A Grilled Veggie Panini is a delicious and satisfying sandwich packed with smoky, charred vegetables, melted cheese, and hearty bread, all pressed to crispy perfection. This vegetarian option is both nutritious and comforting, making it ideal for a quick lunch, light dinner, or even a weekend brunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Veggie Panini is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a flavorful, wholesome meal that doesn’t rely on meat. The grilled vegetables offer depth and a rich umami taste, while the cheese adds a creamy contrast. It’s easy to customize with your favorite veggies or bread, and it can be made using a panini press or stovetop skillet. This recipe is also a great way to use up leftover vegetables and transforms them into something memorable and crave-worthy.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

Zucchini, sliced
Red bell pepper, cut into strips
Eggplant, sliced
Red onion, sliced
Olive oil
Salt and pepper
Fresh basil leaves
Mozzarella or provolone cheese, sliced
Balsamic glaze (optional)
Ciabatta or sourdough bread

Directions

Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
Lightly brush the vegetables with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
Grill the vegetables for 2-3 minutes per side until they are tender and have visible grill marks.
Lay out the bread slices and layer one side with grilled vegetables, basil leaves, and cheese. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using.
Top with another slice of bread and press gently.
Place the sandwich in a panini press or grill it in a skillet, pressing down with a heavy pan. Cook for 3-5 minutes on each side or until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted.
Remove from heat, let rest for a minute, then slice and serve.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings. Preparation takes about 15 minutes, and cooking requires 10-12 minutes, totaling approximately 25-30 minutes from start to finish.

Variations

Add hummus or pesto: Spread a layer of hummus or pesto on the bread for extra flavor.
Swap the cheese: Use goat cheese, feta, or vegan cheese alternatives.
Use other veggies: Try mushrooms, spinach, or artichoke hearts.
Make it spicy: Add sliced jalapeños or a dash of red pepper flakes.
Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free bread to suit dietary needs.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover panini in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the sandwich in a skillet over medium heat and cook until warmed through and crispy. Avoid using the microwave, as it may make the bread soggy.

FAQs

What kind of bread works best for paninis?

Ciabatta, sourdough, or focaccia are ideal due to their sturdy texture and ability to crisp up well.

Can I make this panini vegan?

Yes, simply use vegan cheese and skip any non-vegan sauces or spreads.

Do I need a panini press?

No, you can use a skillet and press down the sandwich with another heavy pan for a similar effect.

Can I grill the veggies in advance?

Yes, grilled vegetables can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.

What cheese melts best in paninis?

Mozzarella, provolone, or Swiss cheese melt beautifully and offer a creamy texture.

Is this recipe freezer-friendly?

While possible, freezing is not recommended as the grilled veggies and bread may lose their texture.

Can I use a different oil instead of olive oil?

Yes, avocado oil or canola oil can be used as alternatives for grilling the vegetables.

How can I keep the panini from getting soggy?

Avoid overfilling and grill the vegetables well to remove excess moisture. Toasting the bread slightly before assembling also helps.

What sauce pairs well with this panini?

Balsamic glaze, pesto, garlic aioli, or sun-dried tomato spread are excellent accompaniments.

Can I add protein to this panini?

Yes, grilled tofu, tempeh, or a slice of roasted chicken can be added for extra protein.

Conclusion

The Grilled Veggie Panini is a versatile, healthy, and deeply satisfying meal perfect for any time of day. It celebrates the natural flavors of vegetables with just the right amount of char, crunch, and melt. Whether you follow a vegetarian diet or are simply looking to enjoy more plant-based meals, this panini is a must-try for your recipe collection

sarra