Description
This Caprese Sandwich is a fresh and flavorful Italian-inspired sandwich featuring layers of ripe tomatoes, creamy fresh mozzarella, peppery arugula, and fragrant basil leaves on soft focaccia bread, enhanced with a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil and a sprinkle of flaky sea salt and black pepper. Optional additions like roasted cherry tomatoes and pickled red onions add an extra depth of flavor, making it a perfect no-cook meal for lunch or a light dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Sandwich Ingredients
- 4 (3.5-inch) squares focaccia, sliced in half
- Handful of arugula
- 1 (8-ounce) ball fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 2 large tomatoes, sliced
- ⅓ cup roasted cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Pickled red onions (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves
- Extra-virgin olive oil, for drizzling
- Flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the bread: Slice the focaccia squares in half horizontally to create sandwich bases and tops.
- Assemble the sandwich layers: Lay a handful of arugula on the bottom half of each focaccia square, ensuring even coverage for a fresh, peppery base.
- Add cheese and tomato: Place the sliced fresh mozzarella evenly over the arugula, then layer the sliced large tomatoes on top.
- Add optional toppings: If using, distribute the roasted cherry tomatoes and a few pickled red onions over the tomato slices for added texture and flavor complexity.
- Finish with basil and seasoning: Top each sandwich with fresh basil leaves and drizzle extra-virgin olive oil generously. Season with flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Serve: Place the top half of the focaccia on each sandwich, gently press down, and serve immediately to enjoy the fresh and vibrant flavors.
Notes
- You can toast the focaccia slightly if you prefer a warm sandwich.
- For a vegan variation, substitute fresh mozzarella with a plant-based cheese alternative.
- Pickled red onions and roasted cherry tomatoes are optional but add wonderful flavor contrast.
- Use ripe, firm tomatoes for the best texture and taste.
- This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the bread and freshness of ingredients.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: Caprese sandwich, Italian sandwich, fresh mozzarella, tomato sandwich, focaccia sandwich, easy lunch, no-cook sandwich, arugula, basil, vegetarian sandwich
