Red Pepper and Artichoke Panini

A Red Pepper and Artichoke Panini is a delicious grilled sandwich typically made with roasted red peppers, marinated artichoke hearts, and other flavorful ingredients. Here's a basic recipe to make one:

Ingredients:

For the Panini:

• 4 slices of your choice of bread (sourdough, ciabatta, or baguette work well)
• 1/2 cup roasted red peppers (jarred or freshly roasted and peeled)
• 1/2 cup marinated artichoke hearts
• 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
• 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
• 2-3 tablespoons olive oil or melted butter for grilling

For the Spread (optional):

• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat a panini press, grill pan, or a regular pan over medium-high heat.

2. If you'd like to make a spread for your panini, mix the mayonnaise, minced garlic, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This spread adds an extra layer of flavor to your sandwich.

3. Lay out the four slices of bread on a clean surface. If you're using the spread, spread it evenly on the inside of each slice.

4. Layer the ingredients on two of the bread slices. Start with a layer of fresh spinach leaves, followed by roasted red peppers, marinated artichoke hearts, and mozzarella cheese.

5. Place the remaining two bread slices on top to make sandwiches.

6. Brush the outsides of the sandwiches with olive oil or melted butter. This will help the panini develop a crispy, golden crust.

7. Place the sandwiches on your preheated panini press or grill pan. If using a regular pan, you can use a second pan or a sandwich press to press down on the sandwiches.

8. Grill the panini for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and crispy, and the cheese is melted. If using a pan, flip the sandwiches halfway through and press them again.

9. Carefully remove the panini from the press or pan and let them cool for a minute or two.

10. Slice the panini in half diagonally and serve hot.

You can customize this panini by adding other ingredients like sliced olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious Red Pepper and Artichoke Panini!