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–+ servings
crispy grilled veggie sandwich

Crispy Grilled Veggie Panini

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A crunchy air fryer veggie panini under 300 calories, loaded with grilled zucchini, peppers, and mushrooms with melty part-skim mozzarella and fresh basil.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 10 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes

Ingredients
 
 

  • 2 slices whole grain bread or light sandwich bread, about 120 calories total
  • ¼ small zucchini thinly sliced, about 25g
  • ¼ medium red bell pepper thinly sliced, about 25g
  • ½ small portobello mushroom cap thinly sliced, about 30g
  • ¼ cup baby spinach leaves about 10g
  • 2 leaves fresh basil 2 to 3 leaves
  • ¼ cup part-skim shredded mozzarella cheese about 28g
  • ½ teaspoon olive oil or olive oil spray
  • salt and black pepper a pinch each
  • ½ teaspoon balsamic glaze optional, or vinegar for extra flavor

Equipment

  • Air fryer
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Small bowl 
  • Tongs or spatula
  • Pastry brush or olive oil spray

Method
 

  1. Toss the zucchini, bell pepper, and mushroom slices in a small bowl with a light spray or brush of olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Preheat your air fryer to 370°F (188°C). Place the veggies in the basket in a single layer and air fry for 4 to 5 minutes, shaking halfway, until tender and lightly charred.
  3. Lay out the bread slices. Layer half the mozzarella on the bottom slice, then add the grilled veggies, spinach, and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using. Top with the remaining mozzarella and the second slice of bread.
  4. Lightly spray or brush the outside of the sandwich with olive oil. Air fry at 370°F for 4 to 5 minutes, then flip and air fry another 2 to 3 minutes, until both sides are golden and crispy.
  5. Let cool for 1 minute, then slice and serve warm.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 290kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 13gFat: 9gSaturated Fat: 4gSodium: 480mgFiber: 6gSugar: 5g

Notes

Net carbs: 29g per serving (35g total carbs minus 6g fiber).
Substitutions: Use any mix of non-starchy veggies such as eggplant, onion, or tomato. For a vegan version, use plant-based mozzarella. A thin spread of pesto or hummus adds flavor (adjust calories as needed).
Storage: Best enjoyed fresh. Keep the components separate in the fridge and assemble just before air frying so the bread does not get soggy.
Reheating: Return to the air fryer for 1 to 2 minutes at a slightly lower temperature to re-crisp.

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