10-Minute Pesto Caprese Sandwich with Balsamic Almond Salad

There’s something magical about a perfectly assembled sandwich. With crusty ciabatta, vibrant pesto, creamy mozzarella and ripe tomatoes, this caprese-inspired creation is a lunchtime dream. And it comes together in just 10 minutes!

Pair it with a simple side salad tossed in balsamic vinegar and studded with crunchy almonds. Whether you’re at home or packing for the office, this meal is sure to make your midday break something to look forward to.

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Ingredients

2 unit Ciabatta RollView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 ounce Mixed GreensView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

4 ounce Fresh MozzarellaView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 unit Roma TomatoView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

5 teaspoon Balsamic VinegarView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

0.5 ounce AlmondsView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

4 tablespoon PestoView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

2 teaspoon Olive OilView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Salt to tasteView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Pepper to tasteView ingredient guideLike ingredientDislike ingredient

Instructions

1. Wash and dry all produce. Halve the ciabatta rolls. If desired, toast them until golden.
2. Thinly slice the fresh mozzarella into rounds. Halve the Roma tomatoes lengthwise, then slice crosswise into half-moons.
3. In a medium bowl, combine the mixed greens and almonds. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and a generous amount of olive oil. Toss to coat, then season with salt and pepper.
4. Spread pesto evenly onto the cut sides of the ciabatta rolls. Layer the bottom halves with tomato slices, mozzarella rounds and a small handful of the dressed salad. Close the sandwiches.
5. Slice each sandwich diagonally and divide between plates. Toss any remaining tomato slices into the leftover salad and serve alongside.

Recipe Tips

FAQ

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can substitute ciabatta with focaccia, sourdough or any crusty roll.

Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?

It’s best assembled fresh to keep the bread from getting soggy. You can prep the ingredients separately and assemble just before eating.

What can I use instead of pesto?

You can use basil pesto, sun-dried tomato pesto or even a simple olive tapenade.