Looking for a quick, delicious, and healthy sandwich option? This Easy Toasted Caprese Sandwich with Pesto and Buffalo Mozzarella is the perfect recipe for busy families and home cooks who want a taste of Italy at home. With layers of prosciutto, dry coppa, fresh mozzarella, and vibrant basil pesto, this sandwich is sure to become a family favorite.
A Caprese sandwich is inspired by the classic Italian Caprese salad, which traditionally includes tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, basil, olive oil, and balsamic vinegar. This sandwich takes those beloved ingredients and adds a few twists, such as prosciutto and dry coppa, to create a hearty, flavorful meal.
Why We Love This Recipe:
- Quick and Easy: Perfect for a fast weeknight meal or a quick lunch.
- Healthy and Fresh: Uses fresh ingredients like tomatoes, arugula, and basil pesto.
- Versatile: Great for entertaining or a simple family meal.
- Delicious Flavor Combinations: The prosciutto and coppa add a savory depth that pairs perfectly with the fresh mozzarella and pesto.
If you like this Italian recipe, you may also love our Prosciutto Wrapped Cantaloupe or our or Authentic Chicken Saltimbocca Recipe with Prosciutto and Sage.
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What Ingredients Will You Need?
- French Loaf: Provides a sturdy base for the sandwich.
- Prosciutto: Adds a salty, savory flavor.
- Dry Coppa: Enhances the sandwich with its rich, cured taste.
- Buffalo Mozzarella: Offers a creamy, fresh texture.
- Roma Tomato: Adds a juicy, tangy element.
- Arugula: Provides a peppery crunch.
- Basil Pesto: Infuses the sandwich with herby goodness.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For toasting the bread.
- Garlic: Adds a subtle garlic flavor when rubbed on the toasted bread.
- Italian Seasoning: Enhances the overall flavor.
- Salt and Pepper: For seasoning.
Garnish
- Balsamic syrup
- Fresh basil
Note: Refer to the recipe card below for exact quantities.
Instructions
How to Make Easy Caprese Sandwich with Pesto and Mozzarella
Step One: Prepare the Bread
Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat. Slice the French loaf in half lengthwise. Brush olive oil generously over the top of each slice. Place the bread in the pan and toast for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning. Crush the garlic clove and gently rub it over the top of each toasted slice.
Step Two: Prepare the Ingredients
Spread a layer of basil pesto over one side of each slice of bread. Layer the slices of dry coppa, prosciutto, buffalo mozzarella, tomato, and fresh arugula on one slice of bread.
Step Three: Season and Assemble
Season with a pinch of salt, freshly ground pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drizzle balsamic syrup over the top and add fresh basil leaves if desired. Place the other slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
Step Four: Serve
Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately.
What Are Some Good Substitutions?
- Buffalo Mozzarella: Substitute with regular mozzarella or burrata for a different texture.
- Prosciutto: Use turkey or chicken slices for a leaner option.
- French Loaf: Replace with ciabatta, sourdough, or whole grain bread.
How Can You Change This Recipe Up?
- Diet: Make it vegetarian by omitting the prosciutto and coppa.
- Flavor: Add a layer of roasted red peppers for a sweet, smoky flavor.
- Kid-Friendly: Swap arugula with spinach for a milder taste.
What Kitchen Equipment Is Best?
This post shows some of our kitchen essentials. Please visit our shop if you would like to see more of our favorites. These are Amazon affiliate links and we earn commission from qualifying purchases.
- Frying pan
- Bread knife
- Cutting board
- Spatula
How Should You Store This?
Store leftover caprese sandwich in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing is not recommended.
What Are Some Expert Tips?
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
If you prefer a warm sandwich, grill it in a panini press for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and the bread is crispy.
To reheat, place the sandwich in a toaster oven or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed through.
More Recipes You'll Love ♥️
Have Leftover Ingredients?
- Use leftover mozzarella in a Caprese salad.
- Add arugula to a green smoothie for extra nutrients.
- Add leftover pesto to this Easy Creamy Pesto Spinach Ravioli with Tomatoes
- Leftover pesto can also be added to this Casarecce Pasta dish.
Need Something To Pair This With?
- Pair this sandwich with a Quick and Healthy Arugula and Tomato Salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with a bowl of minestrone soup for a comforting combo.
- Enjoy with a side of roasted vegetables for added nutrition.
In The Mood For a Similar Dish?
- Easy Flatbread with Sheep's Milk Ricotta and Hot Honey
- Chicken Pesto Panini
- Italian Club Sandwich
- Tomato Basil Bruschetta
- Burrata Caprese with Heirloom Tomatoes
- Quick and Easy Arugula Prosciutto Salad Recipe
More lunch recipes you will love:
Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly fine for this recipe. It saves time and still provides great flavor. You can also make homemade pesto if you prefer a fresher taste.
A French loaf is ideal due to its sturdy and chewy texture. Other good options include ciabatta, sourdough, or whole grain bread, which also offer a nice crust and hold the ingredients well.
To make the sandwich vegetarian, simply omit the prosciutto and dry coppa. You can add extra vegetables like roasted red peppers, zucchini, or avocado to enhance the flavor and texture.
📖 Recipe
Easy Toasted Caprese Sandwich with Pesto and Buffalo Mozzarella
Equipment
- Bread knife
- Spatula
Ingredients
- 1 French loaf
- 3-4 slices prosciutto
- 6 slices dry coppa
- 3 slices buffalo mozzarella
- ½ Roma tomato sliced
- 1 bunch arugula lettuce
- 2 tablespoon basil pesto
- 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
- 1 clove garlic
- ¼ teaspoon Italian seasoning
- salt to taste
- pepper to taste
Garnish
- fresh basil
- balsamic syrup
Instructions
- Heat a frying pan over medium-high heat. Slice the French loaf in half lengthwise. Brush olive oil generously over the top of each slice.
- Place the bread in the pan and toast for 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Crush the garlic clove and gently rub it over the top of each toasted slice. Spread a layer of basil pesto over one side of each slice of bread.
- Layer the slices of dry coppa, prosciutto, buffalo mozzarella, tomato, and fresh arugula on one slice of bread.
- Season with a pinch of salt, freshly ground pepper, and Italian seasoning. Drizzle balsamic syrup over the top. Add fresh basil leaves for garnish if desired.
- Place the other slice of bread on top, slice the sandwich in half, and serve.
Notes
- Buffalo Mozzarella: Substitute with regular mozzarella or burrata for a different texture.
- Prosciutto: Use turkey or chicken slices for a leaner option.
- French Loaf: Replace with ciabatta, sourdough, or whole grain bread.
Nutrition
Ready to try this delicious Caprese Pesto Sandwich? Share your results and explore more recipes on our blog!
Important Food Safety Tips
Keep all ingredients refrigerated until ready to use. Wash all vegetables thoroughly before assembling the sandwich. Use fresh mozzarella within a few days of purchase for the best quality.
- Wash hands and create a clean work area.
- Rinse fresh produce thoroughly.
- Do not use the same cutting board or utensils on cooked food or produce, that previously touched raw meat or seafood.
- Do not leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods.
See more guidelines at USDA.gov
Erica
This sounds so yummy! Running to the store now for supplies.
Jami Powell
Yay! 😊 It’s delicious!