Caprese Focaccia Sandwich
Soft, airy focaccia bread layered with creamy fresh mozzarella, ripe summer tomatoes, and fragrant basil. A drizzle of rich olive oil and sweet balsamic glaze makes this simple Italian-American sandwich an absolute delight.
For 4 servings
4 steps.
- 1
Step 1
- a.Prepare the Ingredients (5 minutes): Using a serrated knife, carefully slice the focaccia loaf in half horizontally. Slice the tomatoes and fresh mozzarella into 1/4-inch thick rounds. Gently pat the mozzarella slices with a paper towel to absorb excess moisture; this is key to preventing a soggy sandwich.
- 2
Step 2
- a.Season the Tomatoes (2 minutes): Arrange the tomato slices on a plate in a single layer. Sprinkle them evenly with the sea salt and freshly ground black pepper. Let them sit for a few minutes while you prepare the rest.
- 3
Step 3
- a.Assemble the Sandwich (5 minutes): Place the bottom half of the focaccia on a cutting board. Drizzle it with 1 tablespoon of the extra virgin olive oil. Arrange the patted-dry mozzarella slices to cover the bread, followed by the seasoned tomato slices. Generously scatter the fresh basil leaves over the tomatoes.
- 4
Step 4
- a.Final Touches and Serving (3 minutes): Drizzle the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and all of the balsamic glaze over the basil. Place the top half of the focaccia over the fillings. Press down gently but firmly. Let the sandwich rest for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Cut into four equal portions and serve immediately.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Use the highest quality ingredients you can find. The simplicity of this sandwich means the flavor of each component shines through.
- 2For an extra layer of flavor and a crispier texture, lightly toast or grill the focaccia halves before assembling.
- 3A sharp serrated knife is your best friend for slicing soft focaccia and ripe tomatoes without squishing them.
- 4Don't skip patting the mozzarella dry. It's the most important step to avoid a watery sandwich.
Adapt it for your goals.
Add Protein
Layer in slices of prosciutto, salami, or grilled chicken for a heartier meal.
Add GreensAdd Greens
Add a handful of fresh arugula or baby spinach between the tomatoes and basil for a peppery bite and extra nutrients.
Make it a PaniniMake it a Panini
Brush the outside of the assembled sandwich with olive oil and press it in a panini maker or a hot skillet until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden brown.
Add PestoAdd Pesto
Spread a thin layer of basil pesto on the inside of the focaccia bread before layering the other ingredients for an intense basil flavor.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Antioxidants
Tomatoes are an excellent source of lycopene, a powerful antioxidant linked to reducing the risk of heart disease and certain cancers.
Source of Healthy Fats
Extra virgin olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support heart health by helping to reduce bad cholesterol levels.
Promotes Bone Health
Fresh mozzarella is a good source of calcium, an essential mineral for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth.
Frequently asked questions
Each sandwich contains approximately 550-600 calories, depending on the specific size of the focaccia and the amount of oil and cheese used.