Italian Panini

Italian Panini is a classic pressed or grilled sandwich originating from Italy, typically made with crusty bread like ciabatta or focaccia. It's filled with ingredients such as cured meats like prosciutto or salami, cheeses like mozzarella or provolone, and often includes fresh vegetables like tomatoes, arugula, and pesto. The sandwich is heated until the bread is crispy and the cheese melts, creating a warm, savory meal.

🍽️ Nutrition at a glance

A typical Italian Panini is moderately high in carbohydrates from the bread, with a good amount of protein from the meats and cheese, and can be high in fat depending on the fillings and any added oils. It provides key nutrients like calcium, iron, and B vitamins, with a rough calorie ballpark of 400-600 calories per serving.

Nutrition breakdown

Calories	550 kcal
Protein	25 g
Carbs	45 g
Fat	30 g
Fiber	3 g
Sugar	5 g
Sodium	1200 mg
Calcium	250 mg
Iron	3 mg
Potassium	300 mg
Vitamin A	150 mcg
Vitamin C	10 mg
Vitamin D	0.5 mcg
Vitamin B12	1.5 mcg
Phosphorus	200 mg

Per 1 sandwich (250 g) · estimated, varies by recipe

💡 What's interesting

Culturally, the Panini is a staple of Italian café culture, often enjoyed as a quick lunch or snack, and its name comes from the Italian word 'panino' meaning 'small bread roll'. Nutritionally, it can be a balanced meal when loaded with vegetables, offering a mix of macronutrients that make it both satisfying and energizing.