Baked Italian Panini

A warm sandwich with melted mozzarella and the rich taste of Italian ham. Tomatoes and fresh basil add a pleasing balance to the sandwich.

Ingredients

Dressing:

1/3 cup olive oil

2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar

2 tablespoons GOLDEN BLOSSOM HONEY

1 large clove garlic, minced

1/4 teaspoon dried oregano

salt and pepper, to taste

4 ciabatta rolls or 1 (16-ounce) loaf ciabatta bread, halved horizontally

8 ounces Italian ham, such as prosciutto or speck

1 (8 ounce) ball mozzarella fresca, thinly sliced

1 or 2 fresh tomatoes, sliced

12 large fresh basil leaves

Honey Tips

Honey Is Sweeter Than Sugar

Due to the high level of fructose, honey is 25% sweeter than table sugar.

Directions

Preheat oven to 375&deg.
Whisk together all dressing ingredients. Set aside.
Place bottom half of rolls or bread on counter. Top with ham slices, then mozzarella, then tomato slices and finally basil leaves. Drizzle with some dressing. Sprinkle with salt and pepper. Place top half of bread cut side up on counter. Drizzle with desired amount of dressing and place on top of sandwich. (Refrigerate remaining dressing for another use.)
Wrap entire sandwich in foil and bake for 15 minutes or until cheese is melted.
If using a loaf of bread, cut into 4 equal pieces.
Serves: 4