2139. BACON, ROASTED TOMATO and PROVOLONE PANINI

1 pint grape or cherry tomatoes
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper to taste
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1/4 cup prepared pesto
12 slices bacon
4 slices provolone cheese
8 slices 12-grain or other hearty bread

Preheat oven to 450 degrees. In a medium bowl toss the tomatoes with olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt and pepper. Line a baking sheet with foil and pour the tomatoes onto it. Place in preheated oven and cook for 10 to 12 minutes or until the tomato skins burst. Remove from oven and gently mash with a potato masher.

Meanwhile, cook bacon in a large skillet until crisp; drain on paper towels. Combine mayonnaise and pesto in a small bowl; set aside.

To assemble sandwiches, spread each slice of bread with the pesto mayonnaise. Top 4 slices with a piece of cheese, three slices of bacon, a quarter of the roasted tomatoes, and another slice of bread.

Cook on a panini press until bread is slightly browned and crisp.


bacon recipe courtesy of: Cassie, Cassie Craves, October 15, 2010