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If you are craving a fresh and flavorful bite that celebrates the essence of Italian flavors with a delightful twist, this Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining juicy Campari tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil leaves with a luscious pesto-infused mayo, all nestled within perfectly toasted sourdough, this sandwich brings a symphony of textures and tastes that will instantly become a favorite in your lunch rotation or casual dinner lineup.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple yet vibrant ingredients is key to bringing this Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo Recipe to life. Each ingredient adds an essential element—whether that’s creaminess, freshness, or a satisfying crunch—that makes every bite an absolute delight.
- 4 large slices sourdough bread: Provides the perfect crunchy, tangy base that holds all the flavors together without getting soggy.
- 2 tablespoons salted butter: Adds a golden toastiness when melted and grilled with the bread, enhancing the overall richness.
- 5-6 Campari tomatoes (cut into slices): These sweet, juicy tomatoes bring vibrant color and a refreshing burst with every bite.
- 12 large fresh basil leaves: Aromatic and peppery, basil infuses the sandwich with that classic Caprese brightness.
- 8 ounces fresh Mozzarella cheese (cut into ¼-inch slices): Creamy and mild, fresh mozzarella melts slightly and complements the other ingredients beautifully.
- Salt and pepper (to taste): Essential for seasoning to enhance and balance the flavors naturally.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise: Adds a creamy base for the pesto mayo that keeps the sandwich irresistibly moist.
- 1 ½ tablespoons prepared pesto sauce: The herbaceous heart of this sandwich’s “secret sauce” that elevates the classic into something uniquely tasty.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (optional): A pop of citrus brightness that cuts through the richness and lifts the sandwich’s flavor profile.
How to Make Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Pesto Mayo
Start by whisking the mayonnaise, prepared pesto sauce, and lemon juice together in a medium bowl until fully combined. This creamy, herby spread is what transforms the sandwich into a truly memorable experience. Set it aside while you prepare the rest so the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 2: Toast the Bread
Melt the salted butter in a large skillet over medium heat, then place all four slices of sourdough bread into the pan in a single layer. Toast each side for 2-3 minutes until golden brown and crisp. The butter adds a luscious flavor that perfectly complements the fresh ingredients that will come next.
Step 3: Melt the Mozzarella
Flip the toasted bread slices, and immediately top two of them evenly with slices of fresh mozzarella. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, covering the skillet with a lid if you want the mozzarella to soften more quickly and get delightfully melty. This step adds a gooey texture that is absolutely mouthwatering.
Step 4: Layer Tomatoes, Season, and Add Basil
Once the mozzarella has softened, remove the bread slices from the skillet. On top of the cheese, layer the tomato slices evenly, then season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Top it all off with fresh basil leaves for that unmistakable herbal zing.
Step 5: Assemble the Sandwich
Finally, spread the pesto mayo you prepared earlier onto the remaining two slices of toasted bread. Carefully place these on top of the stacked ingredients with the mayo side down to create your perfect Caprese sandwich. Slice in half and serve immediately while the bread is still crispy and the cheese is perfectly soft.
How to Serve Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo Recipe
Garnishes
For a beautiful finishing touch, consider sprinkling a pinch of flaky sea salt or a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over your assembled sandwich just before serving. Adding a fresh basil leaf or two on the plate can amp up the visual appeal and scent as well.
Side Dishes
This Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo Recipe pairs wonderfully with light sides that complement without overshadowing. A crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette or a handful of crunchy vegetable chips will balance out the creamy and savory notes of the sandwich.
Creative Ways to Present
Feeling adventurous? Serve your Caprese sandwich open-faced with a sprinkle of microgreens on top for a trendy twist. Alternatively, cut smaller slider-sized versions for a crowd-pleasing appetizer at gatherings or picnics, making them as delightful finger foods.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
To keep your Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo Recipe tasting fresh, store leftover components separately if possible. Keep the assembled sandwich wrapped tightly in parchment or plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to one day to prevent sogginess.
Freezing
Freezing is not recommended for this sandwich because the fresh tomatoes and basil lose their texture and flavor, and the bread may become tough upon thawing. Instead, freeze the pesto mayo if you make extra; it keeps well in an airtight container for up to three months.
Reheating
If you do have leftovers, gently reheat the sandwich in a skillet over low heat to restore the toasted crust and melt any mozzarella that has firmed up. Avoid microwaving to keep the bread from becoming chewy or soggy.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of bread for this Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo Recipe?
Absolutely! While sourdough adds a lovely tang and crunch, ciabatta, baguette, or even multigrain bread will work wonderfully—just aim for something sturdy enough to hold the ingredients without getting soggy.
Is fresh mozzarella necessary or can I use shredded mozzarella?
Fresh mozzarella is best for its creamy texture and subtle flavor which melts beautifully. Shredded mozzarella can be used in a pinch but won’t deliver the same luxurious mouthfeel.
How spicy is the pesto mayo in this recipe?
The pesto mayo in this recipe is mild and herbaceous, not spicy. If you enjoy a kick, you can add a small pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture for a little heat.
Can this sandwich be made vegan?
Yes! Simply use vegan mayonnaise and a plant-based pesto alongside vegan mozzarella or thinly sliced avocado for creaminess. The fresh basil and tomatoes will keep the flavors vibrant.
What’s the best way to slice tomatoes for the sandwich?
Slicing tomatoes about ¼ inch thick is ideal; this thickness provides enough juiciness without making the sandwich soggy and ensures a balanced bite every time.
Final Thoughts
I can promise you that once you try this Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo Recipe, it will become your go-to for a fresh, quick, and insanely tasty meal. The marriage of creamy mozzarella, bright basil, juicy tomatoes, and that unforgettable pesto mayo makes every bite a little celebration. It’s perfect for casual lunches, light dinners, or impressing friends without any fuss. So go ahead, toast that bread, spread that pesto mayo, and savor your new favorite sandwich bliss!
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Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Caprese Sandwich with Pesto Mayo is a delicious twist on the classic Italian salad, featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, all layered between golden toasted sourdough bread spread with a creamy pesto mayo. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, this sandwich combines fresh ingredients with a buttery, toasty finish for a satisfying meal in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Bread & Butter
- 4 large slices sourdough bread
- 2 tablespoons salted butter
Sandwich Filling
- 5–6 campari tomatoes (cut into slices)
- 12 large fresh basil leaves
- 8 ounces fresh Mozzarella cheese (cut into ¼-inch slices)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
Pesto Mayo
- ¼ cup mayonnaise
- 1 ½ tablespoons prepared pesto sauce
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice (from 1 lemon, optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Pesto Mayo: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, pesto sauce, and lemon juice until well combined. Set aside to allow the flavors to meld until ready to use.
- Toast the Bread: Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Place all four slices of sourdough bread into the skillet in a single layer (working in batches if necessary). Toast for 2-3 minutes until the bread is golden brown on one side.
- Cook the Mozzarella Side: Flip the bread slices over. Top two of the slices with mozzarella slices, splitting the cheese evenly. Cook for another 2-3 minutes until the cheese begins to soften; covering the skillet with a lid can help soften the cheese faster. Then, remove all bread slices from the skillet.
- Assemble the Sandwich: On the two slices topped with mozzarella, layer the sliced tomatoes evenly. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then add fresh basil leaves on top of the tomatoes.
- Add Pesto Mayo and Serve: Spread the prepared pesto mayo evenly on the remaining two slices of bread. Place these pesto mayo-covered slices on top of the assembled sandwiches. Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately while warm.
Notes
- Using fresh, high-quality mozzarella and ripe tomatoes will enhance the flavor of the sandwich.
- If fresh basil is unavailable, you can substitute with baby spinach or arugula for a different but still fresh taste.
- To make the sandwich vegetarian-friendly, confirm that the pesto does not contain any animal-based ingredients like Parmesan made with animal rennet.
- This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh but can be wrapped and refrigerated for up to 1 day.
- For extra crispiness, you can butter the outsides of the bread slices before toasting.
