Pepperoni And Fresh Mozzarella Panini

Description

Source: Emeril's THERE'S A CHEF IN MY WORLD - EMERIL LAGASSE

Panini is the Italian word for rolls or biscuits - but now it also means a small Italian sandwich, grill or not, filled with a variety of meats, vegetables, and/or cheeses. Our version makes great sandwich to serve alongside a bowl of soup for a filling lunch or dinner. Or, make these sandwiches and cut them into small strips or pieces for your family's next party. Be sure you don't skip the oil-and-vinegar dressing - this is what really makes the sandwich come alive!

Ingredients

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh basil or 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• Pinch of freshly ground black pepper
• 8 slices ciabatta bread or other rustic Italian white bread
• 8 ounces fresh mozzarella bocconcini, thinly sliced or 8 ounces mozzarella, thinly sliced, to cover the bread slices
• 2 ounces thinly sliced pepperoni (about 18 slices)

Directions

1. Whisk 3 tablespoons of the olive oil, vinegar, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper in a small mixing bowl to blend.
2. Set the vinaigrette aside.
3. Arrange the slices of bread on a flat work surface and, using a pastry or basting brush, brush one side of each slice with the vinaigrette, dividing it equally.
4. Divide the mozzarella equally among 4 of the bread slices.
5. Top the mozzarella with the pepperoni slices, then place the remaining 4 slices of bread on top of the mozzarella and pepperoni, brushed sides down, to form 4 sandwiches.
6. Brush the outsides of each sandwich lightly with some of the remaining tablespoon of olive oil.
7. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
8. When the skillet is hot, add the sandwiches and cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted, pressing occasionally with a large metal spatula or the bottom of a small heavy saucepan, 4 to 5 minutes per side.
9. Serve hot.

YIELD: 4 sandwiches