Little Italy Panini Recipes

FAMILY-SIZE ITALIAN PANINI

Steps:

• Preheat the oven to 425 degrees F. Pulse the banana peppers, olives, 1/4 teaspoon oregano and 1 tablespoon olive oil in a food processor until finely chopped.
• Split open the loaf of bread, leaving one side attached. Brush the inside with 2 tablespoons olive oil. Fill with a layer of tomato, then salami, ham, coppa and provolone. Top with the banana pepper mixture. Wrap the sandwich tightly in foil and press between 2 baking sheets; place a cast-iron skillet on top to weight it down. Bake until the bread is crisp and the cheese is melted, about 20 minutes.
• Meanwhile, whisk the banana pepper brine, remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil, remaining 1/4 teaspoon oregano and a pinch each of salt and pepper in a large bowl. Toss with the romaine. To serve, unwrap the sandwich and cut into pieces. Serve with the salad.

ITALIAN PANINI

Steps:

• Slice the bread in half horizontally and spread the cut-sides with the honey mustard. Build the sandwich by layering the bottom half of the loaf with half of the provolone, followed by the ham, turkey, salami and the remaining provolone (the provolone should be touching the bread on both sides, with the meat sandwiched in between). Cover with the top half of the loaf.
• Spread some of the butter on top of the loaf, then carefully flip over and butter the bottom. Slice into the desired number of sandwiches
• Heat a large two-burner grill pan over medium heat, or heat a panini maker. Add the sandwiches to the pan and cook, pressing down with a spatula, until the undersides are golden brown, 3 to 4 minutes (see Cook's Note). Turn the sandwiches and continue to cook, pressing, until golden brown on the reverse side and the cheese is melted, another 3 to 4 minutes.
• Transfer the panini to a cutting board and slice in half. Serve immediately.

LITTLE ITALY PANINI

Steps:

• Spread pesto on inside of each slice of bread.
• Create sandwich by layering tomato, cheese, meat, and peppers.
• Grill on panini press or skillet until heated through and cheese is melted.