Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini

If you’re craving a delicious, savory sandwich that’s simple to make but packed with flavor, look no further than this Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini. The creamy burrata cheese pairs perfectly with the tangy olive pesto, while the grilled zucchini adds a satisfying, slightly smoky flavor to each bite. This sandwich is a perfect combination of textures, from the smoothness of the burrata to the crunch of the toasted bread, and it’s a wonderful option for a quick lunch or dinner.

The addition of zucchini offers a healthy, light element to the sandwich, balancing the richness of the cheese and pesto. You can make this sandwich in just 20 minutes, making it ideal for busy days when you still want a satisfying meal. Whether you’re serving it as a main dish or as part of a picnic spread, this sandwich is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and fresh ingredients.

With just a few simple steps, you can enjoy a sandwich that’s as delicious as it is easy to prepare. Keep reading for the full recipe and some helpful tips for making the most of this mouthwatering dish!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini is a delightful twist on the classic sandwich. It’s simple, yet brimming with fresh flavors that will leave you coming back for more. The creaminess of burrata cheese is complemented by the sharpness of olive pesto, while the zucchini adds a touch of lightness to balance the richness. The crispy toasted bread holds everything together perfectly, making each bite an indulgence without being overwhelming. This sandwich is a great choice for anyone looking for a vegetarian option that is both filling and nutritious. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, taking only 20 minutes from start to finish. It’s a great option for a quick meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor or quality.

Ingredients

• Zucchini, sliced
• Bread (your choice)
• Olive pesto
• Burrata cheese ball
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

Cheese Alternatives

If you can’t find burrata or prefer a different cheese, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or goat cheese. Both options will still provide a creamy texture and complement the pesto perfectly.

Add Extra Vegetables

Feel free to add more vegetables to your sandwich, such as roasted red peppers, spinach, or even thinly sliced tomatoes, for additional flavor and nutrients.

Gluten-Free Option

To make the sandwich gluten-free, simply use gluten-free bread. This will still give you the same delicious result without any compromise on taste.

Pesto Variations

If you prefer a different pesto, you can use traditional basil pesto or sun-dried tomato pesto for a slightly different flavor profile.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Grill the Zucchini

Heat a grill pan over medium heat. Add the zucchini slices and grill for about 2-3 minutes on each side, or until tender with grill marks. Remove from the pan and set aside.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

Toast the slices of bread until they are golden brown and crispy. You can use a toaster, grill pan, or oven.

Step 3: Spread Olive Pesto

Spread a generous amount of olive pesto on one side of each slice of bread.

Step 4: Assemble the Sandwich

Place the grilled zucchini slices on top of two of the bread slices. Tear the burrata cheese into pieces and place it on top of the zucchini.

Step 5: Season and Close the Sandwich

Season the sandwich with salt and pepper to taste. Place the remaining slices of bread on top to close the sandwich.

Step 6: Serve

Cut the sandwiches in half and serve immediately. Enjoy!

Tips for Making the Recipe

1. Use fresh burrata: Burrata is best when fresh, so make sure to get the freshest burrata available for a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture.
2. Don’t overcook the zucchini: Grill the zucchini slices just enough to soften them while still retaining some bite. Overcooking can make them mushy.
3. Toast the bread well: Toasting the bread gives the sandwich a crisp texture that complements the creamy burrata and soft zucchini.
4. Customize the pesto: If you love extra flavor, feel free to add a little garlic or lemon zest to your olive pesto to enhance the sandwich’s taste.
5. Use a high-quality pesto: Since pesto is a key ingredient, using a high-quality store-bought version or homemade pesto will make a big difference in flavor.

How to Serve

This Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini is best served warm, right after assembling. For a complete meal, serve it with a light salad, some crispy baked chips, or a fresh fruit side. It also pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or sparkling water for a refreshing and satisfying lunch or dinner.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

While this sandwich is best served fresh, if you have leftovers, you can store the grilled zucchini and pesto in separate airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, toast the bread and assemble the sandwich again.

Freezing

This sandwich is not ideal for freezing due to the creamy burrata cheese and the nature of the ingredients. It’s best enjoyed immediately after making.

Reheating

If you have leftover grilled zucchini or pesto, you can reheat them on the stove over low heat before assembling the sandwich. Avoid reheating the bread as it can become soggy.

FAQs

1. Can I use regular pesto instead of olive pesto?

Yes, traditional basil pesto works wonderfully in this sandwich, though olive pesto provides a unique flavor.

2. How do I store leftover burrata?

Store leftover burrata in its brine or some water in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

3. Can I use another type of cheese?

Yes, mozzarella, ricotta, or goat cheese are great alternatives to burrata if needed.

4. Can I prepare the zucchini ahead of time?

Yes, grilled zucchini can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

5. Is this recipe gluten-free?

It can be made gluten-free by using gluten-free bread.

6. How can I make the sandwich spicier?

To add some heat, try adding a few chili flakes or a drizzle of spicy olive oil.

7. Can I use a different vegetable instead of zucchini?

Yes, eggplant or bell peppers are great alternatives to zucchini and would work well in this sandwich.

8. Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Yes, this sandwich is naturally vegetarian and can be enjoyed by anyone following a vegetarian diet.

9. How can I make the sandwich vegan?

To make it vegan, simply omit the burrata and use a vegan cheese alternative or skip the cheese altogether.

10. Can I grill the bread instead of toasting it?

Yes, grilling the bread on a grill pan will give it a nice smoky flavor and a crispy texture.

Conclusion

The Burrata & Olive Pesto Sandwich with Zucchini is a wonderful choice for anyone seeking a quick, delicious, and flavorful meal. The creamy burrata, savory pesto, and tender zucchini combine to create a sandwich that’s as satisfying as it is easy to make. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch, dinner, or a snack, this sandwich is a delightful treat that’s sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

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