200 Best Panini Recipes

Tiffany Collins
Robert Rose Publishing (2008)
ISBN 9780778802013
Reviewed by Irene Watson for Reader Views (2/11)

I don’t know of anyone that doesn’t love a Panini and making one is actually quite simple. And, the best part?  You don’t have to have a Panini maker; you just need a griddle and a heavy object to press down with.  Of course having a maker would certainly give you the grill marks and make the Panini more authentic.   I use a cast-iron skillet that belonged to my father when he was still single so it means it’s at least 70-years-old.  Aside from making great Panini, it also has great memories.

For the purpose of a review we are asked to test out three recipes.  I love basil pesto in a Panini, therefore was on a hunt to find one using it.  The one I decided to try first was “Chicken Pesto Panini.”  I already had fresh pesto and, when checking the recipe provided in this book, it was exactly the same.  The recipe calls for Italian rolls but I used ciabatta instead.  The other ingredients were chicken breast, provolone cheese, spinach leaves, oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, and slices of red onion.  Delicious!! 

I was intrigued with the section on “Leftovers Panini.”  Looking at the index I realized I can make a Panini out of almost any leftovers.  So, with pot roast on hand I shredded the meat and placed it on the bottom of a slice of sourdough bread.  Top that with horseradish mayo, slices of red onion and crumbles of blue cheese and you’ve got yourself a great tasting Panini.

The third recipe I tested was “Cheesy Beanie Panini.”  Flour tortillas are filled with mashed pinto beans and shredded Monterey Jack cheese. Grill and then top with ranch dressing, lettuce, tomatoes, and salsa and you have a great lunch.  Also, you now have a Panini rather than a burrito.

I see some other recipes that I’ll be trying and, from what I can see, my imagination can wander.  As well, I’ll be investing in a Panini maker because they are hit in our home.  The recipes are simple and most of the ingredients can be found in any kitchen pantry. If not, the nearby grocery store sure does. If you love Panini you can't afford to be without “200 Best Panini Recipes.”

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