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Caprese sandwich

This Caprese sandwich recipe features layers of fresh mozzarella, ripe vine-ripened tomatoes, fragrant basil, and peppery rocket, all nestled between slices of focaccia or bread. Drizzled with basil pesto, extra virgin olive oil, and balsamic vinegar, it offers a refreshing and vibrant taste of Italy. Ideal for a light lunch or dinner, it's a simple yet elegant vegetarian option.
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Servings: 8 people
Course: lunch/dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 1576.6
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 4 thick slices of focaccia or 8 slices of bread to serve
  • 2 tbsp basil pesto ensure vegetarian, if needed
  • 2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
  • handful of rocket
  • 2 x 125g balls of mozzarella sliced (ensure vegetarian, if needed)
  • 2 large ripe Morrisons Vine Ripened Tomatoes sliced
  • small handful of basil leaves
  • 1/2 small red onion sliced (optional)
  • 2 tsp thick balsamic vinegar

Equipment

  • 1 Cutting Board
  • 1 Sharp Knife For precise slicing of tomatoes and mozzarella.
  • 1 Measuring Spoons For pesto, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar.
  • 1 Spatula or Spreader For evenly applying pesto.
  • 1 Serving Platter or Plates

Method
 

  1. Gather all ingredients and prepare your workspace, ensuring fresh produce is washed.
  2. If using focaccia, you may lightly toast or grill it for added texture and warmth; otherwise, prepare your bread slices.
  3. Carefully slice the mozzarella into even rounds and the ripe tomatoes into similar thickness. If using, slice the red onion very thinly.
  4. On each slice of bread or focaccia half, spread a thin, even layer of basil pesto.
  5. Begin layering the sandwich: first, arrange a bed of rocket leaves on the pesto-coated bread.
  6. Next, layer the sliced mozzarella rounds, followed by the sliced vine-ripened tomatoes.
  7. Arrange the fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes, and if desired, scatter the thinly sliced red onion.
  8. Drizzle each half with extra virgin olive oil and then with the thick balsamic vinegar.
  9. Season lightly with a pinch of sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
  10. Close the sandwiches, if applicable, or serve open-faced. Cut in half and serve immediately.

Notes

For an exceptional Caprese sandwich, the quality of your ingredients is paramount. Opt for fresh, ripe vine-ripened tomatoes and high-quality fresh mozzarella (buffalo mozzarella if possible) for optimal flavor and texture. Ensure your basil is fresh and fragrant. If using focaccia, consider lightly toasting or grilling it to add warmth and a slight crispness, enhancing the overall experience. When assembling, layer components carefully to ensure each bite offers a balanced combination of flavors: the creamy mozzarella, sweet tomato, aromatic basil, and peppery rocket, all tied together with bright pesto and tangy balsamic. A sprinkle of sea salt and fresh black pepper will elevate the flavors significantly. For a richer finish, a balsamic glaze can be used instead of plain vinegar.