When summer hits all I want to eat is light and fresh. Salads, sandwiches… anything that doesn’t require more heat and won’t leave us feeling heavy. I also love finding quick meals to create without necessarily having to include a meat option. Now, this recipe absolutely works deliciously with a grilled chicken breast piled on, but this basil, tomato and mozzarella sandwich is delicious all on it’s own. Quick, easy and light – perfect for these warmer summer months!

Now, you want to find a fresh loaf of bread from your local bakery. I always love the ciabatta or sourdough realm myself, but I really think anything would work. You’ll want to slice it thick enough to handle all of the ingredients, but remember that you also want it to fit in your mouth – wink!

All I have to say is fresh mozzarella is where it’s at. Absolutely delicious. You can find fresh mozzarella at your local store within the deli section. You’ll want to slice it as thick as you like melted cheese on a sandwich.

And same with your tomato. Keep the slices a bit thinner…

Then you will want to simply butter the side of your bread slices that will be laying on your grill or grill pan. This will help it cook without burning.

In another lifetime I will absolutely tackle making my own basil pesto from scratch. However, a busy working mama needs all the help she can get, am I right? I love this pre-made basil pesto from Costco. It lasts awhile and I use it in pastas, sandwiches – so many options. You can also find pre-made pesto at your local store. I just love how big this jar is for the price.

On the opposite side of where you put your butter, you will want to add the basil pesto on the inside of your bread slice. While basil pesto is a strong taste, use the amount that you desire.

Then you simply will assemble your sandwiches – mozzarella, tomato, and fresh basil leaves. I also sprinkle a touch of salt and pepper on there as well.

You’ll want to place them on your grill or grill pan over medium to high heat. The goal is for the bread to get toasted and your cheese to melt.

Light, fresh… utterly and absolutely delicious with all the right flavors combined together!

Here is your list of ingredients:

• a fresh loaf of ciabatta or sourdough bread
• butter
• fresh mozzarella, sliced
• one large tomato, sliced
• basil pesto
• fresh basil leaves
• salt + pepper to taste

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What is your favorite light and easy summer dish?