How to Make a Caprese Sandwich

Mmm…caprese. Nothing makes tomatoes taste better than slab of buffalo mozzarella. If you’ve been to an Italian restaurant, you probably know what I’m talking about. Or, you probably know anyway. Plump, red-ripe tomatoes paired with thick, wet buffalo mozzarella, sprinkled with fresh basil and drizzled with the olive oil of your choosing. Add ground pepper if you’re feeling frisky. Unfortunately, this delightful combination is not easily taken to go. Until now. Behold, the Caprese Sandwich.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• One tomato
• 4-6 oz., buffalo mozzarella
• 2 tablespoons, fresh, chopped basil
• 2 tablespoons, olive oil
• 2 tablespoons, butter
• Two slices of bread
• A pan
• A spatula

1. Slice the tomato into thick slices. A half inch may seem a little thick, but it's a good starting point.
2. Slice the mozzarella at a similar thickness, maybe a bit thicker. Keep in mind that fresh buffalo mozzarella is much softer and pliant that your average deli sandwich variety. When cutting it, gently saw with a serrated knife, rather than a hard slice as you might with a block of cheese. If you push down, you'll end up with a squished, oblong slice of mozzarella that isn't so easily worked with.
3. Cut your tablespoon of butter (1/8 inch off the stick) into halves. Apply one half to each slice of bread, on what you intend to be the inside of the sandwich.
4. With your fingers, pinch the basil and evenly sprinkle it across both slices of bread. It should be about a tablespoon to each slice.
5. Apply the tomato and mozzarella. Make sure the slices are spread out, covering the bread. You’re aiming for a consistent thickness throughout the sandwich, so try to avoid a “mound” effect that can happen in the center where the tomato slices overlap. Counter this dilemma, by applying more mozzarella to the outer edge of the sandwich, and just one small slice in the middle.
6. Drizzle olive oil over the tomato and mozzarella. Start with one tablespoon, and see how it looks. Sometimes two tablespoons can overwhelm with that greasy oil feeling that will cover your hands.
7. Preheat the pan on medium heat and apply a tablespoon of butter. Let it melt.
8. Heat each side of the sandwich for about 20-30 seconds, using a spatula to turn it. Then, reduce to low heat, cover and cook about a minute on each side.
9. Remove from stove and enjoy.

Tips & Warnings

• Since you're using butter on the inside of the sandwich, it's better to butter the pan when frying.
• Sandwich makers or toaster ovens are easier to work with (and less messy). Use one if you have it.
• Add some fresh ground pepper for added flavor.
• Cheese is not going to melt the way you think it will. It will be warm and soft, as it should be. So don’t be disappointed if it doesn’t cover the tomato like a blanket.
• Monitor the cooking closely. The read can easily burn if covered too long.
• When eating, watch for dripping and unwanted grease stains. It's going to be tasty, but messy.