Check out this Italian caponata panini recipe
The Italian caponata panini is a vegetarian and eggless sandwich that marries the flavors of Sicilian caponata with panini convenience. Originating from Italy, caponata is a sweet and sour eggplant dish, typically served as a side. This recipe turns it into a meal by using it as a filling between crusty bread slices. Ideal for lunch or dinner, it's time to start cooking.
Gather the following ingredients
To prepare this delightful panini, gather one large eggplant (cubed), two tablespoons of olive oil, one red onion (chopped), three garlic cloves (minced), two tomatoes (diced), one tablespoon of capers, three tablespoons of chopped olives, two tablespoons of balsamic vinegar, and salt and pepper to taste. You'll also need eight slices of crusty bread and optional vegan cheese slices for assembly.
Prepare the caponata
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cubed eggplant and cook until it starts to soften, about five minutes. Then add the chopped red onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Continue cooking for another five minutes until the onion is translucent. This step builds the foundation of your caponata with rich flavors.
Add remaining ingredients
Add the diced tomatoes, capers, chopped olives, and balsamic vinegar to the skillet with the eggplant. Stir well to combine these ingredients. Then season with salt and pepper according to taste. Let the mixture simmer on low heat for about 15 minutes or until it has slightly thickened. This simmering process allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.
Assemble your panini
Preheat your panini press or grill pan over medium heat. For each sandwich, use two slices of bread. On one slice, evenly distribute a layer of the caponata mixture. If opting for vegan cheese, place a slice atop the caponata before adding the second slice of bread on top. Gently press down to slightly compact the sandwich together, ensuring a cohesive blend of flavors.
Grill your panini
Place your assembled sandwiches on the preheated press or grill pan. If using a grill pan, place something heavy atop to press them down. Cook for three to four minutes on each side until golden brown and crispy. Enjoy your Italian caponata paninis fresh off the grill! These offer a mix of textures from crispy bread to a soft, flavorful filling—a perfect vegetarian delight.
