Grilled Tomato-Basil and Mozzarella Panini

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My opinion of tomatoes has changed drastically in the past year.

When disguised in ketchup or pizza sauce, they’re totally fine. But every other way? Let’s just say I had no respect for this fruit/veggie or whatever food classification you want to give it. For the love, please keep it out my sandwiches and salads!

That is, until this cheesy tomato basil sandwich landed on my plate.

With gooey mozzarella cheese, savory basil paste, and bread grilled to crispy perfection…now that’s a way to win over a tomato-less heart. This quick and easy lunch recipe is the perfect go-to alternative to a heavier meal and you can even pretend you’re dining at a fancy downtown cafe.

Of course, I’m still not a fan of the raw tomato {let’s not get too carried away now}, but this…THIS is in a totally different ball park.

How to Make Tomato Basil Sandwiches

Step 1: Brush the outside of 2 slices of bread with olive oil. Then sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Spread 1 tablespoon of basil paste/pesto over the inside of one slice of bread—you can make your own or buy a tube of it at the grocery store. Cover the paste with thin slices of a Roma tomato.

Step 3: Carefully place 1/2 cup fresh shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the tomato slices, before topping everything with the other piece of bread.

Step 4: Toast in a frying pan over medium heat occasionally pressing down on the panini with a spatula, or you can get fancy with a panini press and have it toast both sides at once. When the top and bottom  are golden brown, remove, slice, and serve!

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