Havarti, Turkey Bacon and Grilled Tomato Panini

I really enjoy playing around with different ingredients in my panini.  This combo gives Panera a run for their money!  It's quick and easy, and so delicious.  I tried to lighten it up a bit by using turkey bacon and light havarti cheese.

Jen's HBT Panini

2 Roma tomatoes

4 slices of hearty bread

4 slices of cooked turkey bacon

4 slices of light Havarti cheese

4 basil leaves

olive oil

kosher salt

pepper

First, get yourself some nice, firm Roma tomatoes.

Slice each tomato lengthwise and scoop out the seeds.  Brush the cut sides with a little olive oil and sprinkle with some kosher salt and fresh pepper.

Chop up some fresh basil.  I used some from my Aerogarden.  I love the smell of freshly cut basil.

Heat up your panini grill to about Med/Low.  Put the tomatoes, cut side down, onto the grill.  Prop the lid up so it's just above the tomatoes, and not touching them.  I used a large mug to do this.  Cook the tomatoes about 10-12 minutes.  If you don't want to use the grill, you can cook the tomatoes in the oven.

Remove them and top with some of the chopped basil.

Choose a solid, crusty bread. They hold up best when making a panini.  I like Trader Joe's Stone Hearth Baked French Loaf.

Brush the bread with a little olive oil and top one side with some cheese of your choosing.  I really like the ooey-gooey goodness of havarti.  Then top the cheese with 2 slices of the grilled tomatoes.

And then add 2 slices of cooked turkey bacon.

Turn up your panini grill to medium and grill your panini, oiled side down.  It should only take 3-5 minutes.

Serve with a salad!