Italian BLT Panini
Elevate the classic BLT by pressing artisanal Italian bread layered with hot capicola ham, provolone cheese, baby arugula, prepared pesto, and a sun-dried tomato mayonnaise. Brush the outside of the sandwiches with olive oil and press in a panini press until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted. Wrap in foil to keep warm.
The full recipe lives in the Vault
Ingredients, step-by-step method, and every chef-tested detail are reserved for members of the Estate Registry.
Join the Estate RegistryPrepared pesto is just fine for this sandwich, but making your own is even better. Place 1 cup fresh basil leaves, 1 tablespoon toasted pine nuts, 2 garlic cloves and 2 ounces Parmesan cheese into the bowl of a food processor. Pulse to combine. With the blade running, slowly pour in ⅓ cup olive oil to form a paste. Season with salt and pepper. Stored in an airtight container, pesto will last a long time.
A Panini press is the perfect tool for melting together all of the cheesy filling, while toasting the top and bottom of your grilled sammie. My favorite has a hinge, allowing you to smush your really fat sandwich into a gooey melting Panini. The next best thing is your tried and true grill pan. Place your sammie in that and simply smash it down, using a heavy bottom skillet or pot. Turn once the cheese begins to melt, and press down again to brown on the second side.
The Heart of the Table
This warm, pressed panini brings the comforting aromas of a classic Italian deli straight to the table, making everyone eager to take a bite. The combination of melted cheese and savory ham creates an immediate feeling of cozy comfort.
The Art of the Host
- a pre-seasoned double-burner cast-iron grill pan with high ridges
- a well-seasoned 12-inch cast-iron skillet with dual pour spouts
- a mouth-blown glass dressing cruet with a hand-ground glass stopper
- a wide, copper-plated wire cooling rack to ensure perfect airflow
- a pair of professional-grade stainless steel locking kitchen tongs
Neighborly Grace
- THE PRESENTATION: Slice the warm panini diagonally, showing off the colorful layers of green pesto, red tomatoes, and melted cheese, and serve on a slate board.
- THE POUR: Pair with a light, dry Chianti or a sparkling water with a splash of cranberry juice and lime.
- THE VIBE: Evening Dining Room. The warm, candlelit glow and the savory aroma of toasted panini set an intimate, cozy mood for a casual dinner.