How to Make a Panini

Panini sandwiches are popular and tasty meals, especially at bistro restaurants, fast food, and convenience stores. However, due to the additional preparatory time in creating the entire sandwich, panini sandwiches often cost more than traditional sandwiches. If you enjoy the taste of panini sandwiches but don’t appreciate the added cost, consider purchasing a panini maker to satiate your panini palate at a more reasonable cost.

Cuisinart panini makers also allow you to create healthy panini sandwiches as the panini maker grills without the required use of oils. The lack of complicated ingredients also makes it convenient to make a panini on the run. Here’s how to make the perfect panini.

Panini sandwiches aren’t just different and more expensive because they’re grilled. They usually include hearty Italian bread and premium ingredients. Once you have your own Cuisinart or Breville panini maker, you can customize your panini better than previously possible in a restaurant.

Begin by selecting panini bread. Freshly-baked ciabatta bread is extremely popular for making panini sandwiches. Select your meats and cheeses at your grocery store’s deli. If you’re concerned with cost, choose basic ingredients but select one premium meat or cheese to complete the panini taste.

While the panini maker doesn’t take up a lot of space, you should clear some counter space around it, allowing for sandwich preparation. Ensure that the panini maker is away from any paper products or other items for safety (and to avoid non-food items getting into your sandwich).

Before you use your panini maker for the first time, wipe it down with a cloth lightly coated in vegetable oil. This removes any residue left on the machine from its packaging.

Most panini makers require a bit of pre-heating. Check the instructions to see how this works for your particular panini maker. You are generally able to select the temperature desired and pre-heat the panini maker to that setting.

While the panini maker is heating, prepare your sandwich. Include whatever meats, cheeses, or condiments you want to have warmed. Cut the sandwich in half before placing it into the grill to allow for even toasting.

Grill the sandwich in your panini maker. For safety, make sure to lift the panini press by the indicated handle. Use wooden utensils to assist in placing and removing the sandwich from the panini maker. Grill the sandwich for 2-4 minutes. Remove with care and place immediately onto plate.

Unplug the panini maker before you eat to give it time to cool. Never clean a hot or plugged-in panini maker. Once it’s cool, verify that the panini maker is unplugged. Using a damp washcloth, wipe away any excess food inside the panini maker. After multiple uses (or if you suspect outside contamination from dust or hair), use a very small bit of dishwater soap on the rag to clean the interior of the panini maker. Wash away with damp washcloth and store the panini maker in an enclosed area.

Panini sandwiches are a wonderful treat for lunch, dinner, or even for a snack. Make them for yourself or make them for guests. No matter what you do, your tummy (and your wallet) will appreciate your efforts!