Mozzarella, fresh tomatoes, and basil make an irresistible Caprese Sandwich you’ll turn to again and again for a quick and healthy meal.
When you hear “Caprese,” you likely envision the simple yet timeless Caprese salad. The Caprese sandwich is modeled after that classic dish.
“Caprese” refers to the enchanting island of Capri, where this dish is said to have its roots. It comprises juicy tomatoes, velvety mozzarella, fragrant basil, a drizzle of olive oil and balsamic, and a sprinkle of salt. For the sandwich, just add bread.
A Caprese sandwich not only pleases the palate but also captivates the eyes with its red, white, and green hues, reminiscent of the Italian flag. It works perfectly as an appetizer, side dish, or even a light meal. For many people, to enjoy this sandwich is to enjoy the taste of summer.
Every summer, I grow tomatoes and basil in the backyard for the sole purpose of enjoying Caprese salads and sandwiches (and a bit of homemade bruschetta). Nothing beats a fresh, homegrown tomato (but I won’t judge if you use store-bought tomatoes to make this recipe!). Speaking of which, let’s do that now!
Is A Caprese Sandwich Healthy?
A Caprese sandwich is a wholesome choice. The tomatoes are a good source of vitamins C, B9 (folate), and potassium. Then comes the fresh mozzarella cheese, which offers protein and calcium. Let’s not overlook the basil! This fragrant herb isn’t just used for its taste. It also contains modest amounts of vitamins A and K. The drizzle of olive oil introduces good fats into the mix. Besides all that good news, when you use whole-grain bread, you’re incorporating fiber into your sandwich, which aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full.
The Secret Is In The Bread
With all the beautiful ingredients in a Caprese sandwich, it’s tough to choose which one “makes” the sandwich. You may be surprised to hear that the whole-grain bread is critical to a good Caprese sandwich. It has a slightly nutty taste that pairs perfectly with the mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil. It is also dense enough to withstand the fillings, preventing your sandwich from becoming soggy. So when you’re preparing a Caprese sandwich, don’t settle for a soft, white bread; go for something like whole-grain—hearty with just the right amount of flavor.
How to Make Ahead and Store
This sandwich comes together in no time and is best enjoyed fresh. Storing is not recommended, as the beauty of the sandwich is the crisp bread and vibrant ingredients. If you simply must, however, wrap them tightly in plastic and place them in the fridge for no longer than 24 hours.
Serving Suggestions
Admit it, your first thought when considering what to serve with any sandwich is potato chips. You are not alone. Try our Air-Fryer Potato Chips or Air-Fryer Tortilla Chips for a salty fix that will balance out the sandwich nicely. Other favorites include Potato Salad or Macaroni Salad for a lunch or dinner with a summer vibe. A refreshing Broccoli Salad also works well and helps to create a healthy meal full of lots of veggies.
Ingredients
- 4 slices whole-grain bread
- 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese sliced
- 1 large ripe tomato sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Toast the bread slices until they are golden and crisp to your liking.
- Layer the mozzarella slices evenly over 2 slices of the toasted bread.
- Place tomato slices on top of the mozzarella. Season with salt and pepper.
- Add fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes.
- Drizzle balsamic glaze and olive oil over the basil.
- Top with the remaining slices of toasted bread, press gently, and cut the sandwiches in half.
Nutrition Info:
Nutrition information are estimates only and may vary based on the specific brands, ingredients, and portion sizes you use. This data is provided for informational purposes only.
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