Grilled Veggie & Burrata Panini

Charred veggies, creamy burrata, and golden, crispy bread—this is sandwich heaven!
This Grilled Veggie & Burrata Panini is what vegetarian dreams are made of! Picture this: smoky grilled zucchini, sweet bell peppers, and tender eggplant layered with luxuriously creamy burrata cheese. Add a generous swipe of pesto, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, and crisp, toasty bread, and you’ve got a panini that’s hearty, melty, and bursting with Mediterranean flavor.
Whether you’re making a casual lunch or an impressive vegetarian dinner, this recipe checks all the boxes—colorful, delicious, and easy to make.
Ingredients (Serves 2)
- 1 zucchini, sliced lengthwise
- 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into strips
- 1 small eggplant, sliced into rounds
- Olive oil, for brushing
- Salt & pepper, to taste
- 4 slices rustic or sourdough bread
- 1 ball burrata cheese, torn into pieces
- 2 tbsp pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- Balsamic glaze, for drizzling
- Fresh basil leaves (optional)
Estimated Calories: 450–550 per sandwich
Instructions
1. Grill the Veggies
- Brush sliced zucchini, eggplant, and bell pepper with olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Grill on a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat until nicely charred and tender—about 2–3 minutes per side.
- Set aside to cool slightly.
2. Assemble the Panini
- Spread pesto on one side of each bread slice.
- On two slices, layer the grilled veggies, torn burrata, and basil leaves (if using).
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
- Close the sandwiches with the remaining bread slices, pesto side down.
3. Grill the Panini
- Heat a panini press or skillet over medium heat.
- Place the sandwiches in the press (or skillet with a heavy pan pressed on top).
- Cook until the bread is golden and crisp, and the burrata is warm and gooey—about 3–5 minutes, flipping once if using a skillet.
4. Serve Warm
- Slice each panini in half, let that burrata ooze a little, and serve warm.
- Optional: Serve with a side salad or a handful of arugula tossed in lemon juice and olive oil for a fresh contrast.
Why You’ll Love It
- Vegetarian-friendly, but oh-so-indulgent.
- Burrata brings that next-level melt factor.
- Grilled veggies add smokiness, texture, and color.
- It’s the perfect mix of creamy, crispy, tangy, and fresh.
Make It Your Own
- Swap burrata for fresh mozzarella or goat cheese if preferred.
- Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a flavor twist.
- Add a layer of arugula or spinach for some greens.