The modern caprese sandwich at Panera is a delicious combination of fresh ingredients stacked between slices of bread. This sandwich takes the classic flavors of a caprese salad and transforms them into a hearty, satisfying sandwich. The star ingredients on the modern caprese are ripe tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, fragrant basil, and smooth avocado spread. When these components come together between slices of Panera’s signature tomato basil bread, it makes for an unforgettable lunchtime treat. Keep reading to learn all about the components that make this sandwich so mouthwatering.
Tomato Basil Bread
The base of the modern caprese sandwich is Panera’s signature tomato basil bread. This bread has a stunning crimson-colored interior speckled with flakes of basil. The exterior has a crunchy yet tender crumb. Each bite of the tomato basil bread fills your mouth with the sweetness of ripe tomatoes and the aroma of fresh basil. This is so much more than just ordinary sandwich bread. The complex flavor profile of the tomato basil bread pairs perfectly with the ingredients layered between each slice. The bread provides a sturdy foundation for the juicy tomatoes, velvety mozzarella, and other components. Additionally, the hints of basil in the bread mirror the fresh basil leaves layered within the sandwich.
Sliced Tomato
No caprese would be complete without sliced tomato! The modern caprese sandwich at Panera contains several slices of juicy, ripe tomato. These tomato slices have a deep red color and are still warm from sitting in the morning sun. When you bite into a slice, the tomato practically bursts with sweet, bright flavor. The tomatoes provide a refreshing quality against the richness of the mozzarella. Their juiciness also prevents the sandwich from becoming too dry. The sliced tomatoes are in keeping with the traditional caprese salad, which also contains fresh tomato. Overall, the tomato slices are an essential component that makes this sandwich ultra-fresh and vibrant.
Mozzarella
Oozing between each slice of tomato basil bread is tender, milky mozzarella cheese. This mozzarella has a soft, creamy texture that is delightful to bite into. As you chew the mozzarella, it coats your mouth with its signature milky flavor. The mozzarella provides a luxurious contrast to the fresh vegetables within the sandwich. It also acts as the “glue” that holds all the ingredients together. Without the mozzarella binding everything together, the modern caprese would fall apart after the first bite! The mozzarella used at Panera is fresh – never rubbery or bland. It likely arrives at the bakery daily to ensure peak flavor and texture.
Basil
No sandwich inspired by a caprese salad would be complete without fresh basil. Basil leaves are layered within the modern caprese to provide a burst of herbaceous flavor. The basil has a gentle peppery taste and aroma. When combined with the tomatoes and mozzarella, the basil completes the classic caprese trifecta of flavors. It elevates the sandwich from great to absolutely crave-worthy. The basil leaves are picked at the peak of freshness to ensure they have vibrant flavor. Then they are gently layered between slices of tomato so they don’t wilt and turn black. The fresh basil adds a delightful finishing touch to this sandwich.
Avocado Spread
One unique aspect of the modern caprese sandwich is the addition of a smooth avocado spread. This spread has an ultra-creamy texture and verdant green color. The avocado flavor is mild, with nutty notes that pair perfectly with the basil and tomato. When spread atop the tomato basil bread, the avocado spread provides a luscious base for the sliced tomatoes and mozzarella to rest on. It also adds an extra dose of richness to complement the cheese. The avocado spread sets this sandwich apart from a classic caprese salad or sandwich. It adds a modern twist while still allowing the other caprese ingredients to shine through.
Balsamic Glaze
The finishing touch on the modern caprese sandwich is a drizzle of balsamic glaze. This glaze has a glossy texture and deep brown hue. It provides a sweet yet tart pop of flavor. As you bite into the sandwich, the balsamic glaze mingles with the basil, tomatoes, and mozzarella. It balances out the richness of the cheese and avocado spread. The glaze also pulls together all the flavors, uniting them into one cohesive, satisfying package. Just a light drizzle of balsamic glaze brings this sandwich to the next level.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrition Facts | Serving Size 1 sandwich |
|---|---|
| Calories | 500 |
| Total Fat | 23g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Cholesterol | 25mg |
| Sodium | 830mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 57g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 6g |
| Protein | 19g |
Conclusion
The modern caprese sandwich available at Panera contains a harmony of delicious ingredients between slices of tomato basil bread. Ripe tomatoes, milky fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, creamy avocado spread, and sweet balsamic glaze combine to create sandwich magic. Each component offers its own unique flavors and textures that complement each other perfectly. Next time you visit Panera, be sure to try the modern caprese sandwich. It offers a fresh take on a classic caprese salad by transforming it into a satisfying sandwich. One bite will have your tastebuds singing!