Roasted Vegetable Panini Sandwich

Name: Roasted Vegetable Panini Sandwich
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Ingredients: 4 ciabatta rolls or panini bread; 1 zucchini, sliced; 1 red bell pepper, sliced; 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced; 1 red onion, sliced; 1 cup mushrooms, sliced; 1/4 cup olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/4 cup pesto sauce

Highlighted under: Hearty Home Cooking

A delightful and hearty sandwich filled with roasted vegetables, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Created by

Andrea

Last updated on 2026-01-04T15:06:29.220Z

This Roasted Vegetable Panini Sandwich is a celebration of flavors and textures. Each bite is packed with the goodness of seasonal vegetables, layered with melted cheese and pesto, all pressed between crusty bread.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with flavor from roasted vegetables
Crispy on the outside, warm and melty on the inside
Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients
Perfect for a quick meal or picnic

      

The Magic of Roasted Vegetables

Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and enhances their flavors, making them the star of this panini sandwich. The process caramelizes the sugars in the vegetables, resulting in a deep, rich taste that perfectly complements the melted cheese and pesto. Whether it’s the vibrant bell peppers or the earthy mushrooms, each bite bursts with flavor, ensuring that your taste buds are in for a treat.

This method also allows for a variety of textures in your sandwich. The crispy edges of the roasted veggies contrast beautifully with the soft, chewy bread and gooey cheese, creating a satisfying mouthfeel. Plus, roasting is a simple technique that requires minimal preparation, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or casual lunches.

Customization Options

One of the best aspects of the roasted vegetable panini is its versatility. Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables based on what's in season or what you have on hand. For instance, adding eggplant, asparagus, or even sweet potatoes can introduce new flavors and textures. The key is to keep the balance of flavors and to ensure that the vegetables are cut into similar sizes for even roasting.

Additionally, the cheese and sauce can be customized to suit your palate. While mozzarella is a classic choice for its melting qualities, you might try sharp cheddar, creamy goat cheese, or even a vegan cheese alternative. As for the pesto, homemade or store-bought variations can offer different flavor profiles, whether you're in the mood for basil, sun-dried tomato, or even an arugula pesto.

Perfect Pairings

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious roasted vegetable panini.

For the Sandwiches

4 ciabatta rolls or panini bread
1 zucchini, sliced
1 red bell pepper, sliced
1 yellow bell pepper, sliced
1 red onion, sliced
1 cup mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/4 cup pesto sauce

These ingredients will create a satisfying and flavorful sandwich that everyone will enjoy!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your panini to perfection.

Roast the Vegetables

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). In a large bowl, toss the zucchini, bell peppers, red onion, and mushrooms with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread the vegetables on a baking sheet and roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender and slightly caramelized.

Assemble the Sandwiches

Remove the roasted vegetables from the oven and let them cool slightly. Slice the ciabatta rolls in half and spread pesto on the inside of each half. Layer the roasted vegetables on the bottom half of each roll, sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, and top with the other half of the roll.

Grill the Paninis

Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium heat. Place the assembled sandwiches on the press or grill, and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If using a grill pan, you may need to press down with a spatula to ensure even grilling.

Serve and Enjoy

Remove the paninis from the heat, cut in half, and serve warm. Enjoy your delicious roasted vegetable panini sandwiches!

Now that your paninis are ready, enjoy them with a side salad or chips!

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize the vegetables based on your preferences or what you have on hand. Adding some fresh basil or spinach can enhance the flavor!

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply pop them back in the panini press or grill pan for a few minutes to restore their crispy exterior. Alternatively, you can use a microwave, but keep in mind that it may result in a softer bread texture.

For meal prep enthusiasts, consider roasting a larger batch of vegetables at the beginning of the week. This not only saves time but allows you to whip up fresh paninis in minutes. Just assemble and grill whenever hunger strikes!

Health Benefits

This roasted vegetable panini is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients. Vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini are rich in vitamins A and C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy immune system and skin. Moreover, the inclusion of whole grain ciabatta rolls provides fiber that aids in digestion and keeps you feeling full longer.

By incorporating a variety of colorful vegetables, you ensure a diverse range of antioxidants that can help combat oxidative stress and promote overall health. Plus, the healthy fats from olive oil and pesto contribute to heart health, making this panini a smart choice for both flavor and nutrition.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use different types of bread?

Yes! Any sturdy bread works well, such as sourdough or whole grain.

→ How can I store leftover paninis?

Wrap them in foil and store in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven or panini press.

→ Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! Use vegan cheese and ensure your pesto is dairy-free.

→ What side dishes pair well with this sandwich?

A fresh salad, sweet potato fries, or a cup of soup would be great accompaniments!