Roasted Red Pepper and Basil Pesto Panini with Pear and Arugula Salad topped with caramelized Walnuts.

The past few days, M and I have been eating unsubstantial food - Eating on the go while finishing off chores. It just did not feel right.

While shopping this afternoon at the local store, we came across freshly baked warm artisan subs and the idea of lunch came together around that.

I had a bag of pre-washed bitter greens from Trader Joe's along with a few ripe Pears. My overflowing freezer had an unopened pack of roasted red peppers, again from TJ while Basil Pesto was not too hard to locate since it is a staple at my home. and this gave me a chance to use one of my favorite kitchen appliances - the Breadman Panini maker. It took all of 30 mins to prepare the Panini and the Salad.

Pear and Arugula Salad topped with caramelized Walnuts.

Dressing-
Balsamic vinegar - around 4-5 Tbsp
Fruit Juice Concentrate 2-3 Tbsp ( Instead of buying Raspberry vinegar, I like to mix a little raspberry concentrate with my balsamic vinegar - tastes better to me)
Crushed Black Pepper 1/2 tsp

Salad-
Your choice of bitter greens ( Radicchio , arugula etc. The bitterness provides a great contrast to the sweetness of the pears)
walnuts - 1/2 cup
Sugar - 1 tsp
1 Pear

Method-

Heat a frying pan . After the pan is thoroughly heated, add the walnuts and dry roast them for over medium flame 2-3 mins. Spray the walnuts with a non-stick cooking spray and add the 1 tsp sugar. Continue heating until the sugar melts and coats the walnuts ( around 2-3 mins). Take the pan off the flame and allow the walnuts to cool.

Meanwhile, peel and slice the pears. Add the greens to a large bowl. Pour the dressing ingredients over the greens and toss well to coat. Top with the warm caramelized walnuts and serve.
Roasted Red Pepper and Basil Pesto Panini

Ingredients-

1 large sub / 1/4 French Load
Couple of slices of Roasted red pepper
Basil Pesto to taste
1/2 cup grated Mozzarella cheese
Red pepper flakes for heat( Optional)

Method-

This is very simple. Heat the panini maker or the grill. Meanwhile, slice the sub / French loaf. Spread basil pesto to taste. Add the roasted red pepper and top with Mozzarella cheese and red pepper flakes. Coat with non-stick spray and place it in the panini maker and press down the lid. Grill until the golden crust is formed. Serve with the salad.

Definitely a "repeat again" no-fuss meal for me!