Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich Recipe
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This Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich is the perfect choice for a quick and tasty vegetarian meal! The tender grilled or roasted eggplant, paired with melted cheese and crispy bread, creates a sandwich that’s both filling and full of flavor. Whether you’re making it in a panini press or a frying pan, this recipe is an easy, satisfying lunch or dinner option, especially when eggplants are in season.
Grilled eggplant panini is a very tasty sandwich recipe. Instead of the typical meat, this vegetarian sandwich recipe uses a slice of roasted eggplant.
To make the grilled eggplant panini sandwich, put the slice of cheese on a bread, add grilled or roasted eggplant, add another slice of cheese and top with another slice of bread, then cook on a hot panini sandwich press. If you don’t own a panini press, you can just cook the sandwich on a hot frying pan on both sides.
Why You’ll Love Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich
- This sandwich is a delicious way to enjoy eggplant with its tender, smoky flavor. Grilling or roasting the eggplant enhances its natural sweetness, making it irresistible in every bite.
- It’s a hearty vegetarian option that’s so satisfying, you won’t miss the meat! The combination of melted cheese and grilled eggplant creates a perfect balance of textures.
- Easy to prepare with simple ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s a quick lunch or dinner that can be made on a panini press or even in a skillet.
- This recipe is versatile! You can easily customize it by using different types of cheese or adding extra veggies like spinach, tomatoes, or roasted peppers.
- Ideal for summer when eggplants are in season, but can be enjoyed year-round with oven-roasted eggplant for that same great taste.
This grilled eggplant panini sandwich is so tasty and filling that you won’t miss the meat! This eggplant sandwich is a perfect summer recipe when yummy eggplants are in season. On the picture above, I served the grilled eggplant sandwich with the side dish of rice with green peas.
Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- Eggplant: The star of the dish, it adds a rich, tender texture when grilled or roasted.
- Cheese: Melts beautifully in the sandwich, providing creaminess and flavor. You can use your favorite variety.
- Bread: Use any type you like, whether it’s whole grain, sourdough, or ciabatta for a sturdier sandwich.
- Honey mustard: Adds a sweet and tangy kick that pairs well with the eggplant.
- Salt and pepper: Simple seasonings to enhance the flavor of the eggplant.
Instructions How To Make Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich
- You can use the grill or the oven to cook the eggplant. If using the grill, preheat the grill. If using the oven, preheat the oven to 450F.
- Peel the eggplant and cut into slices.
- If grilling, cook the eggplant on a grill until tender.
- If using the oven, line the baking sheet with parchment paper and put in the oven. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Sprinkle cooked eggplant with salt and pepper to taste.
- Spread the bread slices with honey mustard.
- Put a slice of cheese on a bread.
- Put a slice of eggplant on top of the cheese.
- Put the second slice of cheese on top of the eggplant.
- Put a slice of bread on top of the cheese. You will have eggplant sandwiched between 2 slices of cheese and 2 slices of bread.
- Preheat the panini press. Cook the grilled eggplant sandwiches in the panini press for 1 minute or until the sandwich is golden and cheese is melted.
Kitchen Tools You Need To Make Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich:
- Grill or oven – For cooking the eggplant to tender perfection.
- Panini press or frying pan – To cook and press the sandwich until crispy and golden.
- Baking sheet and parchment paper – If you’re roasting the eggplant in the oven.
- Knife – For peeling and slicing the eggplant.
- Spatula – To press down the sandwich if using a frying pan.
How To Make a Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich
- Preheat your grill or oven to prepare the eggplant. If using the oven, set it to 450°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Peel and slice the eggplant into rounds, then grill or roast it until it’s tender. Roasting will take about 30 minutes, while grilling will be quicker.
- Once cooked, season the eggplant with salt and pepper.
- Spread honey mustard on one side of each slice of bread, then layer cheese, eggplant, and another slice of cheese between the bread.
- Preheat your panini press or use a frying pan to cook the sandwich. Press it for about 1 minute or until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Serve and enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
- Serve this Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich with a side of avocado rice, apple salad, or a light vegetable soup for a balanced meal.
- Pair it with a Russian beet salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to complement the richness of the sandwich.
- For a heartier option, serve with a side of roasted potatoes or sweet potato fries.
Tips For Success
- To ensure your eggplant has the best texture, slice it evenly and grill or roast until tender but not mushy. A well-cooked eggplant should be soft and slightly golden.
- Make sure your panini press or frying pan is hot before cooking the sandwich. This helps achieve a crispy crust while keeping the cheese inside perfectly melted.
- Don’t skip seasoning the eggplant! Eggplant has a mild flavor, so a little salt and pepper after cooking will enhance its taste significantly.
- If you’re using a frying pan instead of a panini press, press the sandwich with a spatula while it cooks to mimic the effect of the press. This will help you get that delicious golden-brown crust.
- Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella, provolone, or even feta for a unique twist. You can also add a variety of vegetables, such as roasted red peppers or fresh spinach, for extra flavor.
Variations And Substitutions
- Cheese: You can swap the cheese for a dairy-free alternative if you’re making a vegan version of this sandwich. Plant-based cheeses like almond or soy-based options can still provide a creamy texture and melt nicely.
- Bread: Use gluten-free bread if you’re following a gluten-free diet. Many stores offer delicious gluten-free sandwich breads that will work perfectly with this recipe.
- Eggplant: If you’re not a fan of eggplant or want to try something different, zucchini or portobello mushrooms are excellent substitutes. They offer a similar tender texture when grilled or roasted.
- Mustard: If honey mustard isn’t your thing, try using regular mustard or even a pesto spread for a more herbaceous flavor. You can also add a bit of balsamic glaze for a tangy, sweet twist.
- Additional toppings: Add layers of fresh vegetables like tomatoes, arugula, or roasted bell peppers to customize your sandwich and make it more filling. You can also add avocado for creaminess or a dash of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Storage and Reheating
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the grilled eggplant and any assembled sandwiches separately. Wrap the sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or place it in an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, place the sandwich in a panini press or a hot skillet to warm it up and re-crisp the bread. If reheating in the oven, bake at 350°F for about 5-7 minutes, or until the sandwich is heated through and the cheese is melted. Avoid microwaving, as it may make the bread soggy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different vegetable instead of eggplant?
Yes, you can substitute eggplant with other vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or portobello mushrooms. Just grill or roast them as you would the eggplant, and they will provide a similar texture and flavor.
Do I need a panini press to make this sandwich?
No, a panini press is optional. You can use a hot frying pan instead and press the sandwich down with a spatula as it cooks. This method will still give you a crispy, golden crust and melty cheese.
Can I make this sandwich vegan?
Absolutely! Swap out the regular cheese for your favorite plant-based cheese, and ensure the bread you’re using is vegan-friendly. The rest of the ingredients, like the eggplant and mustard, are already vegan.
How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?
Make sure to grill or roast the eggplant until it’s tender but not too soft. Let the eggplant cool slightly before assembling the sandwich to prevent excess moisture from soaking into the bread. You can also toast the bread lightly before adding the filling.
Can I freeze this sandwich?
It’s not recommended to freeze the assembled sandwich, as the texture of the bread and cheese may be affected. However, you can freeze cooked eggplant slices. When ready to make the sandwich, thaw the eggplant and assemble as usual.
Other Easy Eggplant Recipes
Air Fryer Chinese Eggplant – Quick and Healthy Recipe: This air fryer Chinese eggplant recipe delivers tender, flavorful eggplant with minimal oil and a perfect crispy texture.
Simple Pan-Fried Eggplant and Zucchini Recipe: This easy pan-fried eggplant and zucchini dish is a quick, healthy side packed with flavor and a great way to enjoy seasonal vegetables.
Easy Microwave Eggplant Recipe: A fast and convenient microwave eggplant recipe that results in tender, delicious eggplant in minutes.
Quick Sautéed Eggplant Recipe: This quick sautéed eggplant recipe is perfect for a light, flavorful side dish or topping for pasta and grains.
Other Easy Panini Recipes
Easy Turkey and Cheese Quesadilla Panini: A simple and tasty turkey and cheese quesadilla panini that combines crispy bread with gooey, melted cheese for a satisfying meal.
Classic Grilled Cheese Panini Recipe: This classic grilled cheese panini delivers a crunchy golden crust with perfectly melted cheese in every bite.
Grilled Fish Panini Sandwich Recipe: A fresh and flavorful grilled fish panini sandwich that’s perfect for a light, healthy lunch or dinner.
Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 eggplant peeled and sliced
- 2 slices cheese
- 2 slices bread
- 1 tbsp honey mustard to taste
- salt and pepper to taste
Recommended Kitchen Tools (click the links below to see the items used to make this recipe)
- Grill or oven
- Panini press or frying pan
- Baking Sheet if roasting
- Parchment Paper for baking
- Knife for slicing
- Measuring Spoons for seasoning
Instructions
- Preheat the grill or oven. If using the oven, set it to 450°F.
- Peel and slice the eggplant into rounds.
- Grill the eggplant until tender, or roast in the oven for 30 minutes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
- Sprinkle the cooked eggplant with salt and pepper.
- Spread honey mustard on one side of each slice of bread.
- Place a slice of cheese on one piece of bread, add the grilled or roasted eggplant, and top with another slice of cheese.
- Cover with the second slice of bread.
- Preheat the panini press or use a hot frying pan. Cook the sandwich for 1 minute or until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden.
- Enjoy your Grilled Eggplant Panini Sandwich!
Notes
- If you don’t have a panini press, you can cook the sandwich in a frying pan and press it down with a spatula.
- Feel free to experiment with different cheeses or add extra veggies like tomatoes or spinach for more flavor.
Nutrition
Enjoy this yummy grilled eggplant panini sandwich! For more tasty eggplant recipes, check out vegetarian eggplant lasagna, baba ganoush eggplant spread recipe and eggplant caviar salad recipe.
