Triple Tomato Caprese Focaccia Sandwich Recipe

Triple Tomato Caprese Focaccia Sandwich

• Difficulty: Easy
• Servings: 4
• Nutritional Facts per Serving (1 of 4): Calories 1005, Total Fat 64 g, Saturated Fat 21 g, Carbohydrates 65 g, Dietary Fiber 5 g, Sugar 16 g, Protein 37 g, Cholesterol 90 mg, Sodium 1708 mg
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Active Time: 20 minutes

Unlock the magic of this irresistible sandwich by beginning with pillowy fresh focaccia and the creamiest mozzarella you can finddeli-fresh if possible. No artisanal source nearby? Simply slice grocery store fresh mozzarella, dust with a pinch of salt, and let it mingle at room temperature for an hour or two to capture that just-made warmth and flavor explosion.

Balsamic Vinaigrette:

• 1 cup balsamic vinegar
• 1/2 teaspoon brown sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme, minced
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1/4 shallot, minced
• Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

Sandwich:

• 1 pound fresh tomato focaccia, sliced horizontally
• Olive oil, for brushing
• 1 cup sun-dried tomato pesto
• Sliced heirloom tomatoes (I favor the yellow variety for this)
• 1 pound freshest whole-milk mozzarella available
• Sea salt
• Fresh basil leaves

Instructions:

1. To craft the balsamic vinaigrette, combine vinegar, brown sugar, thyme, garlic, shallot, kosher salt, and black pepper in a small saucepan. Simmer gently until reduced by half, about 15 minutes, then cool completely.
2. Blend Dijon mustard with 1/4 cup of the reduction (save the rest for drizzling later). Whisk vigorously, then stream in olive oil while whisking to create a silky emulsion that ties everything together.
3. Heat a grill pan over medium.
4. Brush focaccia halves with olive oil and grill until golden with tantalizing char markspure perfection awaits.
5. Slather the bottom half with sun-dried tomato pesto, layer vibrant heirloom tomato slices, and drizzle with your homemade vinaigrette for a burst of tangy sweetness.
6. Crown with thick mozzarella slices, a sprinkle of sea salt, and handfuls of fragrant basil to elevate the freshness.
7. Cap with the top focaccia, slice into glorious portions, and dive into summer-on-a-plate bliss!