Name: Tomato and Basil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 schiacciata (optional, can use any bread); 150-200 g prosciutto crudo, sliced; 1 large ball fresh buffalo mozzarella; 4-5 slices large tomato; 5 large basil leaves; Salt, to taste (optional)

Jump to Recipe

If you’re craving a sandwich that feels like a warm hug from Italy, the Tomato and Basil Prosciutto Sandwich is an absolute must-try. This panino combines the creamy richness of fresh buffalo mozzarella with the savory allure of prosciutto crudo, brightened up by juicy tomato slices and fragrant basil leaves. Every bite bursts with vibrant colors and textures, making it a perfect lunch or light dinner that’s both simple and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this sandwich lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a starring role in creating a perfect harmony of flavor, texture, and color that feels fresh and indulgent all at once.

Schiacciata bread (or your favorite bread): Its light crust and soft inside provide the ideal canvas for the filling.
Prosciutto crudo (150-200 g): Thinly sliced, it adds a delicate saltiness and silky texture.
Fresh buffalo mozzarella (1 large ball): Creamy and lush, it melts gently against the bread and balances the saltiness.
Tomato slices (4-5 large): Juicy and slightly tangy, they bring vibrant freshness and a pop of color.
Large basil leaves (5 leaves): Aromatic and peppery, they tie all the flavors together wonderfully.

How to Make Tomato and Basil

Step 1: Prepare Your Bread

Start by selecting a piece of schiacciata or any rustic bread you love. Slice it lengthwise to create two sturdy halves that will hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart.

Step 2: Layer the Prosciutto

Lay a generous amount of thinly sliced prosciutto on the base of your bread. Its melt-in-your-mouth texture and subtle saltiness form the perfect foundation for your sandwich.

Step 3: Add the Fresh Mozzarella

Next, place slices or chunks of creamy buffalo mozzarella right over the prosciutto. The moist, delicate cheese contrasts beautifully with the cured meat’s intensity.

Step 4: Arrange the Tomato Slices

Carefully layer your tomato slices on top of the mozzarella. If you like, sprinkle a pinch of salt here to bring out their natural sweetness and deepen their flavors.

Step 5: Finish with Basil

Top the tomatoes with fresh basil leaves. Their lively fragrance and slightly spicy bite make the Tomato and Basil combination truly irresistible.

Step 6: Assemble and Serve

Finally, place the other half of your bread atop the stack to complete your panino. Slice it in half and get ready to savor every flavorful mouthful!

How to Serve Tomato and Basil

Garnishes

For an extra touch of elegance, drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil over the sandwich just before serving. A tiny sprinkle of cracked black pepper or a few delicate microgreens can add texture and a fresh zing that complements the Tomato and Basil perfectly.

Side Dishes

This panino shines on its own, but pairing it with simple sides like a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some lightly salted kettle chips creates a perfectly balanced meal. The lightness of these sides won’t compete with the rich flavors but will refresh your palate.

Creative Ways to Present

Consider cutting the sandwich into smaller, bite-sized pieces for a charming appetizer platter. You can also toast the bread lightly for added crunch, which contrasts delightfully with the soft mozzarella and basil leaves.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftover sandwich, wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil and store it in the refrigerator. Keep it chilled and consume within 24 hours for the freshest taste and texture.

Freezing

Because this sandwich relies on fresh tomatoes, basil, and soft mozzarella, freezing is not recommended. The texture of these ingredients will suffer considerably once frozen and thawed.

Reheating

If you prefer your panino warm, gently toast it in a pan or sandwich press for just a minute or two. Avoid microwaving to prevent the bread from becoming soggy and the mozzarella from losing its creamy charm.

FAQs

Can I use other types of bread instead of schiacciata?

Absolutely! While schiacciata offers a lovely light crust, any sturdy rustic bread like ciabatta or sourdough works wonderfully.

Is buffalo mozzarella necessary, or can I use regular mozzarella?

Buffalo mozzarella brings a richer, creamier flavor, but fresh regular mozzarella is a fine substitute if that’s what you have available.

Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?

Of course—you can add roasted red peppers, arugula, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for extra flavor, but the classic Tomato and Basil combination shines on its own.

What’s the best way to keep basil fresh for this recipe?

Store basil in a glass of water at room temperature or wrapped loosely in a damp paper towel inside the fridge; avoid sealing it tightly in plastic.

Can this sandwich be made vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the prosciutto and consider adding grilled vegetables or a drizzle of pesto to keep the flavors vibrant.

Final Thoughts

Sharing this Tomato and Basil prosciutto panino with you feels like inviting you into my kitchen for a little taste of Italy. It’s simple, fresh, and endlessly satisfying—a true culinary hug in sandwich form. Next time you want something quick but spectacular, give this panino a go, and watch it become a fast favorite in your meal rotation.

Tomato and Basil Recipe

★★★★★

5.1 from 6 reviews

Author: Harry
Total Time: 10 minutes
Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
Diet: Halal

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Description

A delicious Italian-style panino featuring thinly sliced prosciutto crudo, fresh buffalo mozzarella, ripe tomato slices, and aromatic basil leaves layered inside crusty bread, offering a perfect balance of savory, creamy, and fresh flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

Bread

1 schiacciata (optional, can use any bread)

Fillings

150–200 g prosciutto crudo, sliced
1 large ball fresh buffalo mozzarella
4–5 slices large tomato
5 large basil leaves
Salt, to taste (optional)

Instructions

Prepare the bread: Cut a piece of schiacciata or your preferred bread. Slice it lengthwise to create two halves suitable for filling.
Layer prosciutto: Lay the sliced prosciutto crudo evenly on the base piece of bread, ensuring good coverage for flavor.
Add mozzarella and tomato: Place the fresh buffalo mozzarella on top of the prosciutto, then arrange the tomato slices over the cheese. Sprinkle a pinch of salt on the tomatoes if desired for enhanced taste.
Add basil: Top the tomato slices with fresh basil leaves to add aromatic freshness to the sandwich.
Assemble and serve: Close the sandwich with the top piece of bread. Cut the panino in half for easy handling, then serve immediately and enjoy the fresh Italian flavors.

Notes

You can substitute schiacciata with ciabatta, focaccia, or any crusty bread of your choice.
For a warm version, lightly toast the sandwich in a panini press or grill for a few minutes until the cheese softens.
Adding a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or balsamic vinegar can enhance the flavor profile.
To keep the sandwich fresh, assemble just before serving.
Buffalo mozzarella is preferred for its creamy texture but regular fresh mozzarella is a good alternative.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Sandwich
Method: Assembling
Cuisine: Italian