Best Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli Recipe – Easy & Delicious

Discover how to make the most flavorful Caprese sandwich with a delicious twist of hBest Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli Recipe – Easy and Delicious

Discover how to make the most flavorful Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli at home. This Italian-inspired sandwich combines fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and aromatic basil with a creamy pesto aioli spread that elevates this classic to new heights. Perfect for lunch, picnics, or a quick dinner, this Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli is sure to become your new favorite!

Why You’ll Love This Caprese Sandwich

• Ready in just 15 minutes – perfect for busy weekdays!
• Features fresh Caprese ingredients with an unforgettable pesto aioli twist
• Completely customizable with optional add-ins
• Makes an impressive lunch or light dinner option
• Perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and herbal flavors
• Great for meal prep when wrapped properly
• Vegetarian-friendly and can be made gluten-free with bread substitutions
• No cooking required – just assembly!

Ingredients for Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli

For the Pesto Aioli:

• 1/2 cup high-quality mayonnaise
• 3 tablespoons homemade pesto (or store-bought for convenience)
• 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
• 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

For the Caprese Sandwich:

• 8 slices of ciabatta bread, sourdough, or your favorite crusty bread
• 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
• 1 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

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How to Make Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli – Step by Step

Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Aioli

1. In a small bowl, combine the mayonnaise, pesto sauce, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
2. Mix thoroughly until smooth and well blended.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

1. Slice the tomatoes into 1/4-inch thick rounds and sprinkle lightly with salt to draw out excess moisture.
2. Slice the fresh mozzarella into 1/4-inch thick rounds.
3. Wash and dry the fresh basil leaves.
4. If using ciabatta or a larger loaf, slice into individual sandwich-sized portions.

Step 3: Assemble the Caprese Sandwich

1. Lightly toast the bread slices if desired (this helps prevent sogginess).
2. Spread a generous layer of the pesto aioli on one side of each bread slice.
3. On half of the bread slices, layer the fresh mozzarella cheese.
4. Place tomato slices on top of the cheese layer.
5. Add a layer of fresh basil leaves.
6. Drizzle lightly with extra virgin olive oil and balsamic glaze.
7. Season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.
8. Top with the remaining bread slices, pesto aioli side down.
9. Gently press the sandwich together.

Step 4: Serve

1. Cut the Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli in half diagonally for an appealing presentation.
2. Serve immediately while fresh and at room temperature for the best flavor experience.

Pro Tips for Making the Best Caprese Sandwich

• Use room temperature mozzarella for the fullest flavor – cold cheese straight from the refrigerator won’t have the same rich taste.
• Pat dry your mozzarella with paper towels to prevent excess moisture from making your sandwich soggy.
• Season your tomatoes with a pinch of salt before assembling to enhance their natural sweetness.
• Lightly toast your bread to create a moisture barrier that keeps your sandwich from getting soggy.
• Quality ingredients matter – use the freshest mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil you can find.
• For the best tasting Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli, use in-season tomatoes (summer is ideal for the most flavorful results).
• Make extra pesto aioli and store it in the refrigerator for up to 5 days – it’s great on other sandwiches, as a dip, or as a dressing!

Best Ways to Serve Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli

The best way to serve a Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli is alongside complementary sides that enhance its Italian flavors:

• Pair with a light arugula salad dressed with lemon and olive oil
• Serve with a side of balsamic-marinated olives for an extra Mediterranean touch
• Add a handful of kettle-cooked potato chips for a satisfying crunch
• Enjoy with a chilled glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water with lemon
• For a heartier meal, serve with a cup of tomato soup or Italian vegetable soup
• Present on a wooden board with additional fresh basil and cherry tomatoes for an impressive lunch spread

Nutritional Information for Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli

(Per sandwich, based on 4 servings)

• Calories: 480 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Protein: 18g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 10g
• Cholesterol: 45mg
• Sodium: 620mg
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 4g

Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

Storage & Leftovers

While the Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli is best enjoyed fresh, you can:

• Store assembled sandwiches wrapped tightly in parchment paper then aluminum foil for up to 4 hours.
• For meal prep, store the components separately: keep the pesto aioli in an airtight container, mozzarella and tomatoes in separate containers, and assemble just before eating.
• The pesto aioli can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to 5 days.
• Not recommended for freezing as the fresh mozzarella and tomatoes will change texture significantly when thawed.
• For the best experience, consume within 24 hours of preparation.

FAQs for Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli

Can I make Caprese sandwiches ahead of time?

Yes, but with some precautions. For the best texture and flavor, prepare the pesto aioli ahead of time and store separately. Assemble the sandwiches no more than 4 hours before serving. To prevent sogginess, lightly toast the bread and place lettuce leaves between the bread and tomatoes to create a moisture barrier.

What can I use instead of fresh mozzarella in a Caprese sandwich?

While fresh mozzarella is traditional for a Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli, you can substitute with burrata for an even creamier texture, smoked mozzarella for a more complex flavor, or dairy-free mozzarella alternatives for a vegan version. Mild provolone or even a soft goat cheese can work well too.

Is Caprese sandwich vegetarian?

Yes, the traditional Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli is vegetarian as it contains mozzarella (which is made with vegetarian rennet in most cases), tomatoes, and basil. The pesto aioli in this recipe is also vegetarian, though traditional pesto sometimes contains Parmesan cheese, which may use animal rennet. Check your pesto ingredients if this is a concern.

What bread works best for Caprese sandwiches?

Ciabatta and sourdough are excellent choices for a Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli as they have a sturdy texture that holds up to the moisture from tomatoes and mozzarella. Other great options include baguette, focaccia, or artisanal Italian bread. For a gluten-free option, use your favorite gluten-free bread or try a gluten-free ciabatta.

Related Recipes

If you love this Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli, try these delicious related recipes:

• Italian Panini with Prosciutto and Mozzarella
• Fresh Tomato and Basil Pasta
• Homemade Basil Pesto
• Caprese Salad with Balsamic Reduction
• Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich

Conclusion & Call to Action

Now you know how to make the best Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli at home! This easy, fresh, and flavorful sandwich makes a perfect lunch or light dinner option any day of the week. The combination of creamy mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, fragrant basil, and that incredible pesto aioli spread creates a sandwich experience that’s truly unforgettable.

Have you tried making this Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Aioli recipe? Let us know in the comments below how it turned out! Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who appreciate good food. Tag us in your sandwich creations on social media – we’d love to see your delicious versions!

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