Goat Cheese, Peach and Basil Panini

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This panini celebrates seasonal flavors with minimal effort. The sweetness of ripe peaches complements the creamy goat cheese, while basil or pesto adds freshness and depth. It’s easy to make, requires only a handful of ingredients, and delivers gourmet flavor without fuss. Plus, it’s endlessly customizable to suit your taste.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

2 peaches, halved and pitted
4 ounces soft fresh goat cheese
4 slices Pullman or other soft sandwich bread
Handful of fresh basil leaves (or 4 tablespoons basil pesto)

Directions

1. Slice the peaches into thin wedges.
2. Spread goat cheese evenly over two slices of bread.
3. Arrange peach slices over the cheese and top with basil leaves or a layer of basil pesto.
4. Place the remaining bread slices on top to form sandwiches.
5. Heat a panini press or grill pan over medium heat.
6. Lightly brush the outsides of the bread with olive oil or melted butter.
7. Grill the sandwiches for 3–4 minutes per side (or until golden brown and crisp, and the cheese is warmed through).
8. Remove from heat, slice in half, and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

Servings: 2
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 8 minutes
Total time: 13 minutes

Variations

• Add a drizzle of honey or balsamic glaze for extra sweetness.
• Substitute peaches with nectarines, figs, or pears for a seasonal twist.
• Use sourdough or ciabatta bread instead of Pullman for a heartier texture.

Storage/Reheating

Panini are best eaten fresh, but you can store leftovers wrapped in foil in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. To reheat, warm in a skillet or panini press over low heat until crisp and heated through. Avoid microwaving, as it will make the bread soggy.

FAQs

Can I make this panini without a panini press?

Yes, use a grill pan or skillet and press the sandwich down with a heavy pan.

Can I use canned peaches instead of fresh?

Fresh is best for texture, but well-drained canned peaches can work in a pinch.

What other cheeses pair well with peaches?

Brie, ricotta, or cream cheese make excellent substitutes for goat cheese.

Can I use pesto instead of fresh basil?

Yes, 2 tablespoons of pesto per sandwich is a great alternative.

What bread works best for this recipe?

Pullman, sourdough, ciabatta, or any sturdy sandwich bread will hold up well.

Can I make this vegan?

Yes, use a dairy-free goat cheese substitute and vegan pesto.

Do I need to peel the peaches?

No, the skin is tender and adds color, but you can peel them if you prefer.

How do I stop the sandwich from getting soggy?

Pat peaches dry before layering, and grill the sandwich until crisp.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Assembled sandwiches can be stored in the fridge for a few hours, then grilled just before serving.

What side dishes go well with this panini?

A fresh green salad, chips, or a light soup pair perfectly.

Conclusion

The goat cheese, peach, and basil panini is a simple yet elegant sandwich that highlights the beauty of fresh, seasonal ingredients. With creamy cheese, juicy peaches, and aromatic basil, each bite is a burst of flavor. Quick to prepare and endlessly adaptable, it’s a recipe you’ll return to all summer long.

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