A Fusion of Two Iconic Cuisines
The original Croque-Monsieur is as French as it gets, but this Italian-inspired version brings in the herbaceous zing of fresh pesto, the creamy stretch of mozzarella, and the savory depth of prosciutto. It’s simple, elegant, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re making it for brunch, lunch, or a cozy dinner, this sandwich delivers gourmet flavors with minimal effort.
Ingredients
4 slices of rustic Italian bread (ciabatta or sourdough work well)
2 tablespoons of basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
2 slices of prosciutto or Italian ham
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
1 tablespoon unsalted butter (for grilling)
Optional: arugula or sun-dried tomatoes for added flavor and texture
Instructions
Spread the Pesto
On one side of each slice of bread, spread a generous layer of pesto. This will act as your flavor-packed base and help the sandwich stay moist.
Assemble the Layers
On two of the slices, layer the mozzarella cheese and prosciutto. If you’re adding extras like arugula or sun-dried tomatoes, now’s the time. Top with the remaining slices of bread, pesto-side down.
Butter and Grill
Lightly butter the outer sides of the sandwiches. Place them in a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Grill for about 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and the cheese has melted.
Top It Off
For an extra Italian touch, sprinkle a bit of grated Parmesan on the top after grilling, and let it melt slightly.
Serve Hot
Slice diagonally, and serve immediately. Pair with a simple arugula salad or a cup of tomato soup for a full meal.
Why You’ll Love It
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