Italian Herb Focaccia Caprese Sandwich
A hearty artisan sandwich layered with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, grilled eggplant, and basil leaves, nestled between slices of herb-seasoned focaccia and finished with a generous drizzle of pesto for the ultimate Mediterranean bite.
- Author: Djihane
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes (for grilling eggplant)
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling, Assembling
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
- 1 large focaccia bread, sliced in half
- 6 slices fresh mozzarella
- 2 medium tomatoes, sliced
- 1 small grilled eggplant, sliced lengthwise
- 6 slices of dry-cured Italian salami (optional)
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
- 3 tbsp basil pesto
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Pinch of dried oregano
- Salt & freshly cracked pepper to taste
- Slice the focaccia horizontally and drizzle both inner sides lightly with olive oil.
- Spread basil pesto evenly over the bottom half of the bread.
- Layer grilled eggplant, tomato slices, and mozzarella on top. If using, add salami between the eggplant and tomato.
- Season with a pinch of salt, freshly cracked pepper, and a sprinkle of dried oregano.
- Add fresh basil leaves over the top of the fillings.
- Place the top half of the focaccia over the filling. Press gently to set.
- Slice in half and serve immediately, or wrap tightly for a picnic or on-the-go lunch.
Notes
- Use roasted red peppers or zucchini as an alternative to eggplant.
- Focaccia can be lightly toasted for added crunch and warmth.
- For a vegetarian version, omit the salami without compromising flavor.
- Wrap tightly in parchment for an easy packed lunch or picnic staple.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 45mg
Keywords: focaccia sandwich, caprese sandwich, Italian sandwich, eggplant mozzarella, basil pesto, Mediterranean lunch