Caprese sandwich

Introducing the delicious Caprese sandwich! This delicious creation begins with soft slices of focaccia, generously coated with a rich and flavorful pesto sauce. Next comes the star of the show – smooth and creamy mozzarella, perfectly complemented by the peppery note of fresh arugula. For a touch of spice, we sprinkle some thinly sliced red onion on top for a hint of flavor. And of course we can’t forget the highlight: juicy slices of ripe tomatoes. Not only is the caprese sandwich a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also a convenient option for a picnic, making every bite a truly delicious experience!

Ingredients

4 thick slices focaccia or 8 slices bread to serve
2 tbsp basil pesto (vegetarian if necessary)
2 tsp extra virgin olive oil
Handful of arugula
2 x 125 g mozzarella balls, cut into slices (please consider vegetarian if necessary)
2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
small handful of basil leaves
1⁄2 small red onion, sliced (optional)
2 tsp thick balsamic vinegar

Preparation steps

If using focaccia, cut the slices in half so you have eight slices total.
Spread 1/4 tbsp pesto on four slices of focaccia or bread.
Drizzle each of the remaining four slices with 1/2 teaspoon olive oil.
Spread the rocket, mozzarella, tomatoes, basil leaves and red onion slices on the pesto-topped focaccia or bread.
Drizzle 1/4 teaspoon balsamic vinegar over each of the remaining slices.
Put the slices together.
Pack for a picnic or serve immediately.
Best eaten on the day it is made.

Nutritional Information

kcal	fat	saturates	carbohydrates	Sugar	fiber	protein	Salt
462	23g	9g	42g	0g	1g	21g	2.2g

Equipment and tools

Knife
cutting board
spatula
Grill or panini press (optional)

Allergen information

This caprese sandwich recipe may contain the following allergens:

Gluten (if using bread)
Dairy products (mozzarella cheese)
Nuts (basil pesto)

Storage and leftovers

If you have leftover caprese sandwiches, you can store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it is best to consume them fresh to enjoy the taste and texture.

The Health Benefits of Caprese Sandwich

The Caprese sandwich is a classic Italian dish that not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers a number of health benefits. From the fresh ingredients to the nutritional value they provide, this sandwich is the perfect choice for a healthy and delicious meal. Let’s explore some of the health benefits of a caprese sandwich.

Rich in antioxidants

The caprese sandwich is full of antioxidant-rich ingredients. Basil, one of the main ingredients in this sandwich, contains essential oils with anti-inflammatory and antibacterial properties. It is also an excellent source of vitamins A, C and K, which help fight free radicals and strengthen the immune system. Tomatoes, another key ingredient, are rich in the antioxidant lycopene, which has been linked to reducing the risk of certain cancers.

Good source of protein

Mozzarella cheese, the star of every caprese sandwich, is an excellent source of protein. This high-quality protein is essential for repairing and building tissue in the body. Protein also plays an important role in supporting a healthy immune system, maintaining muscle mass, and promoting satiety, making it an ideal choice for individuals who want to control their weight.

Heart-healthy ingredients

Extra virgin olive oil used to prepare the caprese sandwich is rich in monounsaturated fats, which are considered heart-healthy fats. These fats have been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease, lowering cholesterol, and improving overall cardiovascular health. Additionally, a study published in the European Journal of Clinical Nutrition suggests that consuming olive oil may reduce the risk of stroke.

Promotes bone health

The combination of mozzarella cheese and basil leaves in a caprese sandwich provides a good amount of calcium and vitamin K. Calcium is important for strong bones and teeth, while vitamin K is essential for bone metabolism. Including these ingredients in your diet can help maintain bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.

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Nutritious sandwich

Overall, the caprese sandwich is a nutritious meal. It combines vegetables, healthy fats and protein in one satisfying dish. In addition to the health benefits mentioned above, this sandwich also provides vitamins, fiber and minerals necessary for a balanced diet.