A panini, derived from the Italian word for 'small bread loaf', is a grilled or pressed sandwich. Typically made with bread like ciabatta, baguette, or focaccia, it's filled with various ingredients like meats, cheeses, vegetables, and spreads. The sandwich is then pressed and heated using a panini press, resulting in a warm, crispy exterior and melted fillings. The technique of pressing the sandwich ensures even heating and enhances flavor by melding the ingredients together, making a popular and versatile food choice. Beyond the core ingredients, many variations exist, playing on different regional or personal tastes.
Panini meaning with examples
- For lunch, I chose a classic panini. I opted for a roasted turkey, provolone cheese, and pesto panini on a toasted ciabatta roll. The panini was perfectly pressed, with the cheese melted and the turkey tender. The aroma and the crispy exterior was very appetizing. My companion had a similar experience with a ham and swiss panini and we thought they were simply divine.
- The cafe offered an array of panini options. I ordered a vegetarian panini with grilled vegetables, mozzarella, and balsamic glaze on focaccia. The grill marks added a smoky flavor that elevated the taste. It was a delightful and flavorful choice. My sister ordered a panini with salami, mozzarella, olives and a basil vinaigrette and loved it just as much.
- At the street food market, a vendor was selling a delicious looking panini. I saw a panini being prepared with grilled chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, and mozzarella cheese on a crusty baguette. The panini press gave it a lovely texture, and it tasted absolutely amazing. The crowd gathered around the vendor were very happy with their panini.
- I made a panini at home. I used leftover grilled chicken, pepper jack cheese, and a spicy mayo on sourdough. The panini press was the perfect tool to achieve the desired crispness and melty goodness. I loved it. Next time I'll try different fillings, perhaps a Reuben panini, or a cuban panini would be nice.
- We hosted a party and offered a panini bar. We had a selection of meats, cheeses, and vegetables. The guests could create their own panini masterpieces. It was interactive and fun, and the panini were a hit with everyone. I found the event to be a resounding success. The different taste combinations were exciting.