I’m not afraid to admit that one of the longest and most reliable relationships in which I’ve ever been has been with my panini press. It’s been there for me through thick and thin; it’s seen me evolve from awkward middle-schooler, to still-kind-of-awkward high-schooler and finally to a strong, (sort of) independent college student. No matter how rough my day is going, my panini maker has always been there to transform my boring, old sandwich into a hot, gooey masterpiece.
Photo by Tarika Narain
To show my thanks, I’ve decided to introduce an exclusive weekly column dedicated to panini lovers around the world: Weekly Panineats. All you’ll need is a panini press and you, too, can experience the magic that is the grilled sandwich.
Photo by Tarika Narain
As if this new column weren’t enough to celebrate, today is also the anniversary of the day that our beloved country finally declared its independence. Patriots across the nation commemorate the occasion through partaking in various classically-American pastimes: watching fireworks, grilling outdoors, playing beer pong, hating on Canada and yelling “‘MURICAAAA” in peoples’ faces at random intervals. In my opinion, nothing screams The American Dream quite like this warm, sweet treat (aka, I’m an American and I dream about it sometimes). This one’s for you, ‘Merica.
Photo by Tarika Narain
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 1-2
(Halve your sandwich to share or eat it all yourself ’cause that’s what liberty’s all about.)
Ingredients:
2 pieces whole wheat bread
1 handful blueberries
1 handful white chocolate chunks
4 tablespoons red raspberry jam
Photo by Tarika Narain
Directions:
1. Preheat your panini maker to medium heat.
2. Spread the jam evenly over both slices of bread.
3. Sprinkle the white chocolate chunks evenly over one of the slices.
4. Sprinkle the blueberries evenly over that same slice.
Tip: You can can get artistic with the arrangement. Your choice. Thanks, freedom of expression!
5. Once your panini press is all warmed up, pop your sandwich in for 4-5 minutes, depending on how hot you want it. Perfect your USA chant while you wait.
6. Enjoy your plate of grilled patriotism, hot off the (free) press.
Photo by Tarika Narain