This panini pairs sweet roasted red pepper with tangy goat cheese and salty tapenade for a simple, bright sandwich. For a related idea, try this Red Pepper & Artichoke Panini to see another way to use roasted peppers.
why make this recipe
This recipe is quick, full of bold taste, and uses few ingredients. It makes a warm, filling sandwich for lunch or a light dinner. You can use fresh or jarred peppers and a panini press or a skillet.
how to make Red Pepper & Goat Cheese Panini
Ingredients :
- 4 thick slices sourdough bread
- 1 red bell pepper (or jarred roasted red peppers)
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/2 cup olive tapenade
- 1/2 cup goat cheese
- handful fresh spinach
Directions :
- Cut the red bell pepper in half and remove seeds.
- Cut each half into thirds.
- Toss the pepper pieces with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the peppers in a skillet or on a griddle until soft and slightly charred.
- Optionally spread the outsides of the bread with butter.
- Spread two slices of bread with olive tapenade.
- Spread the other two slices with goat cheese.
- Top the tapenade slices with the roasted peppers and spinach.
- Place the goat cheese slices on top of the filled slices.
- Grill the sandwiches on a panini press for about 10 minutes or use a skillet and press with a heavy frying pan until golden and pressed.
how to serve Red Pepper & Goat Cheese Panini
Slice the panini in half and serve warm. Add a simple salad or chips on the side for a full meal. A small bowl of extra tapenade or a drizzle of olive oil works well.
how to store Red Pepper & Goat Cheese Panini
Store cooled sandwiches wrapped in foil in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet or panini press until warmed through. Do not freeze the sandwich with fresh greens inside; add spinach when reheating if needed.
tips to make Red Pepper & Goat Cheese Panini
Use jarred roasted peppers to save time. If you like more char, finish peppers under a broiler for a minute. Use room-temperature goat cheese for easy spreading. Press firmly when grilling for a crisp crust.
variation (if any)
Add thin slices of tomato or a few olives for extra salt. Swap sourdough for ciabatta or focaccia. Replace spinach with arugula for a peppery bite.
FAQs
Can I use jarred roasted peppers? Yes. Drain them well and pat dry before using.
What if I don’t have a panini press? Use a skillet and press the sandwich with a heavy pan or a foil-wrapped brick.
Can I make this vegetarian? The recipe is already vegetarian. To make vegan, use a plant-based cheese and vegan tapenade.
Conclusion
If you want more details and another take on this sandwich, see the full Red Pepper & Goat Cheese Panini Recipe – Pinch of Yum.