A caprese sandwich is the perfect summer lunch: crusty bread layered with juicy tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, sweet peaches, and homemade arugula pesto. It’s fresh, flavorful, and endlessly customizable.
Table of Contents
- Why I Love This Caprese Sandwich Recipe
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Substitutions & Variations
- How to Assemble the Caprese Sandwich
- How to Store & Make Ahead
- Other Easy Summer Recipes You’ll Love
- Final Thoughts
- Connect With Me
There’s something magical about the combination of tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil. It’s light, vibrant, and deeply satisfying, literally the essence of summer. I’ve always loved a classic Caprese salad, but turning it into a sandwich? That’s where the magic really happens.
I first made this Caprese sandwich years ago on a warm July afternoon, standing in my kitchen with heirloom tomatoes from the farmers’ market and a freshly baked ciabatta loaf. I added peaches on a whim (I had a few perfectly ripe ones on the counter), and from that moment on, this sandwich became a seasonal staple and so excited to share it with you!
As a recipe developer and lifestyle expert, I’m always looking for ways to elevate simple, everyday ingredients. This sandwich is a beautiful example of that. It’s easy to make, full of flavor, and perfect for picnics, poolside lunches, or no-cook dinners when it’s too hot to turn on the stove.
Why I Love This Caprese Sandwich Recipe
This sandwich is everything I love about summer—fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. It’s simple enough to throw together on a busy weekday, yet feels special and elevated enough to serve at a weekend lunch with friends. I love that it celebrates seasonal ingredients like juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and sweet ripe peaches, all tied together with a peppery homemade arugula pesto. It’s the kind of recipe that looks beautiful, tastes even better, and doesn’t require turning on the oven (a major win during warm months!).
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what I use to make this bright and flavorful Caprese sandwich:
- 4 buns – Ciabatta, Portuguese rolls, or even sourdough. Look for something crusty on the outside and soft on the inside.
- 2 heirloom tomatoes, sliced – Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor.
- 1 fresh mozzarella ball, sliced – Creamy and mild; opt for whole milk mozzarella or mozzarella di bufala.
- 2 peaches, thinly sliced – Adds a sweet, juicy contrast to the salty cheese.
- Homemade arugula pesto
Optional Additions & Toppings
- Fresh basil leaves – For a classic touch
- Balsamic glaze or a drizzle of balsamic vinegar – Adds a tangy-sweet depth
- A drizzle of olive oil – Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil
- Freshly ground black pepper and flaky salt – To finish
Substitutions & Variations
- Bread – Try focaccia, baguette, or whole grain bread for different textures.
- Cheese – Burrata is a luxurious alternative to mozzarella. Or go dairy-free with cashew cheese.
- Fruits & Veggies – Swap peaches for nectarines or add a handful of arugula or spinach.
- Add protein – Grilled chicken, prosciutto, or even turkey adds heartiness.
How to Assemble the Caprese Sandwich
- Prep the ingredients: Slice the tomatoes, peaches, and mozzarella. Have your buns or bread sliced and ready.
- Toast the bread (optional): Lightly toast the bread or buns for added crunch.
- Layer: Spread a generous amount of arugula pesto on the bottom half of the bun. Add tomato slices, peach slices, mozzarella, and a few fresh basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using.
- Finish: Top with the second half of the bun. Press gently and serve immediately!
Expert Tips
Use ripe, in-season produce: This sandwich is all about freshness. If tomatoes or peaches aren’t at their peak, consider roasting them for extra sweetness.
Don’t skip the salt: Just a pinch of flaky salt on the tomatoes and mozzarella really brings out the flavor.
Make it grilled: Turn it into a grilled Caprese sandwich by pressing it in a panini press or grilling it in a cast iron skillet with a little olive oil.
How to Store & Make Ahead
Make Ahead
- Slice your ingredients and store them separately in the fridge.
- Arugula pesto can be made 2–3 days in advance.
Storing Leftovers
- Assembled sandwiches are best eaten fresh, but if needed, wrap tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Avoid adding balsamic glaze until just before serving to prevent sogginess.
Other Easy Summer Recipes You’ll Love
- Mediterranean Burger Sliders
- Best Juicy Turkey Burgers (with Avocado Sauce & Corn Salsa)
- Easy and Fresh Mediterranean Lentil Salad
FAQ
Final Thoughts
This Caprese sandwich with peaches and arugula pesto is a fresh take on a beloved classic. It’s simple yet elevated, exactly the kind of recipe I love to share with you. Whether you’re packing it for lunch or enjoying it alfresco on the patio, it’s guaranteed to become a seasonal favorite.
If you’re looking for a healthy lunch idea or a delicious vegetarian sandwich, this one checks every box. Make it once, and you’ll be hooked!
Connect With Me
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Caprese Sandwich with Arugula Pesto & Peaches Recipe
This sandwich is everything I love about summer—fresh, vibrant, and bursting with flavor. It’s simple enough to throw together on a busy weekday, yet feels special and elevated enough to serve at a weekend lunch with friends. I love that it celebrates seasonal ingredients like juicy heirloom tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and sweet ripe peaches, all tied together with a peppery homemade arugula pesto. It’s the kind of recipe that looks beautiful, tastes even better, and doesn’t require turning on the oven (a major win during warm months!).
Ingredients
- 4 ciabatta or Portuguese buns, halved
- 2 heirloom tomatoes, sliced
- 1 fresh mozzarella ball, sliced
- 2 ripe peaches, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup homemade arugula pesto (see below)
Instructions
- Lightly toast your buns in a skillet or under the broiler for 1–2 minutes for extra crunch.
- Spread a generous spoonful of arugula pesto on the bottom half of each bun.
- Layer with sliced tomatoes, mozzarella, and peaches.
- Add a sprinkle of salt, pepper, and a few basil leaves if using.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
- Place the top bun on each sandwich and serve immediately.
Notes
Christopher is a food and lifestyle expert, recipe developer and the content creator behind May Eighty Five. With over 6 years of creating recipes for your favourite food brands, he also shares tips, tricks and how to’s that he has learnt over the years. Every week, he shares quick, simple and mostly healthy recipes along with some home and entertaining tips. You will find flavorful cocktails, delicious appetizers, tasty mains and some indulgent desserts.
