Tomato, Basil & Mozzarella Panini
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This isn’t your ordinary brown paper bag lunch. Forget the days of eating the same turkey and cheese sandwich, or the PB&J sandwich that you have been eating since you were a kid. Rediscovering the importance of packing a lunch will save you from the downfall of quick fix chocolate, high calorie pre-packed sandwiches and fast food outlets. Lunch is such an important meal to fuel you through the rest of the work day and the perfect time to get creative. Eating the same lunch every day can get boring and bland, but eating out can become burdensome on your wallet.
The key to packing great lunches is to create meals that satisfy your appetite and give you plenty of nutrients to power through the day.
• Experiment with different types of lettuces in your sandwiches – arugula, shredded radicchio, Chinese leaves, spring onions (scallions), bean sprouts or alfalfa.
• Choose interesting breads for sandwiches and rolls – try breads made with olive oil, like focaccia and ciabatta.
This classic combination of fresh tomatoes and mozzarella, put it between two pieces of crusty bread is a satisfying and tasty lunch. Pair with some fruit, nuts and baked chips and you have a perfect mid-day meal.
Tomato, Basil & Mozzarella Panini
Makes 2 servings
• 4 slices herb bread, preferably whole-grain
• 2 ounces fresh mozzarella, preferably smoked, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices
• Freshly ground pepper to taste
• salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons hummus or pesto
• 1.5 vine-ripened tomatoes, sliced
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
Directions
1. Spread the hummus/pesto mixture on both sides of the bread. Layer on cheese slices, some pepper, then the tomato slices; season with salt and vinegar. Top with several basil leaves.
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