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Crispy Fresh Spring Panini Recipe with Seasonal Veggies

crispy fresh spring panini - featured image
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A quick and easy panini packed with fresh, seasonal veggies and melty cheese, perfect for a light and crispy spring meal.

Ingredients

  • Ciabatta bread or sourdough, sliced
  • Extra virgin olive oil (for brushing bread and veggies)
  • Asparagus spears, trimmed and blanched
  • Radishes, thinly sliced
  • Baby spinach or arugula
  • Roasted red bell peppers, sliced
  • Green peas or snap peas, lightly steamed
  • Fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • Goat cheese or cream cheese, softened (optional)
  • Fresh basil or thyme leaves
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • Garlic powder or fresh minced garlic (optional)
  • Lemon zest

Instructions

  1. Trim asparagus and blanch in boiling water for 1-2 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Drain and plunge into ice water to stop cooking.
  2. Thinly slice radishes and roast or slice bell peppers if not pre-roasted.
  3. Steam peas briefly until tender but still firm.
  4. In a small bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil with minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs (basil and thyme), salt, pepper, and a pinch of lemon zest.
  5. Lightly brush both sides of the ciabatta slices with the seasoned olive oil.
  6. Layer mozzarella slices on one piece of bread. Add a spread of goat cheese or cream cheese if using.
  7. Pile on the blanched asparagus, radishes, spinach or arugula, roasted peppers, and peas.
  8. Sprinkle with a little extra salt and pepper for punch. Top with fresh herbs and the other slice of bread.
  9. Preheat your panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Place the sandwich inside, pressing down firmly.
  10. Cook for 3-4 minutes, then flip if using a grill pan, and grill another 3-4 minutes until bread is crispy and cheese is melted.
  11. Remove from heat, let rest for a minute, then slice in half and enjoy warm.

Notes

Use day-old bread for better crispiness. Pat veggies dry to avoid sogginess. Press firmly while grilling. For dairy-free, substitute cheese with plant-based alternatives or avocado slices. If no panini press, use a heavy skillet or foil-wrapped brick to press sandwich while grilling.

Nutrition

Keywords: panini, spring veggies, crispy sandwich, seasonal vegetables, quick lunch, easy recipe, vegetarian sandwich

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