Broccolini Panini

Little Grossy was at his happiest at Bimpy's dinner table, stuffing garlicky Broccolini between hunks of bread and sprinkling it with grated Parmesan cheese. They were the perfect little sandwiches, even when sandwiches weren't on the menu. Big Grossy is at his happiest with leftover garlicky Broccolini in his fridge at all times—and I'm still making off-menu sandwiches, too. (For more on that, see page 146.) This perfect bite comes together in seconds, with a quick swipe of hummus for creaminess and Calabrian chili paste for a little heat. A small pile of broc and a little melty provolone get wrapped, pressed, and toasted all the way through.

Good

% Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet

Step 1

1. In a small bowl, stir together the hummus and chili paste. Taste for spice level and add more chili paste as desired.

Step 2

2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, add the Broccolini and garlic, along with a big pinch each of salt and pepper flakes. Use tongs to turn and stir the Broccolini, cooking until very soft and wilted, about 8 minutes.

Step 3

3. Meanwhile, lay out a piece of foil on a cutting board and lay an equal-size piece of parchment paper on top of the foil. Place the ciabatta on the parchment, cut sides up. Spread the spicy hummus on both halves, dividing evenly.

Step 4

4. Use tongs to pile the Broccolini onto one half of the sandwich.

Step 5

(Don't forget those delicious garlic bits!) Lay 4 slices of provolone on top of the Broccolini, then gently press the other half of the bread on top to close her up. Wrap the sandwich tightly in the parchment paper, then wrap again in the foil.

Step 6

5. Heat a grill pan or cast-iron skillet over medium heat. Place the wrapped sandwich on the grill pan, then place a Dutch oven or heavy skillet on top to press it down. Cook on one side for about 5 minutes, then flip the sandwich, press down, and cook for about 5 minutes more.

Step 7

6. Return the sandwich to the cutting board and cut straight through the foil and parchment to halve the sandwich. Enjoy immediately if not sooner