Dinner

Grilled Vegetable Pesto Sandwich with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

ByCleo Brixton December 18, 2025December 18, 2025

Introduction

This Grilled Vegetables Pesto Sandwich is a vibrant, flavorful meal perfect for a light lunch or casual dinner. Packed with tender grilled veggies, fresh basil pesto, and creamy buffalo mozzarella, it’s a delightful combination that satisfies every bite.

A sandwich on a round wooden board sits on a white marbled surface, with two halves of a similar sandwich blurred in the background. The sandwich has a top and bottom layer of golden-brown toasted bread with a textured crust. Inside, the bottom layer holds a spread of green pesto, topped with a colorful mix of grilled vegetables including red and green peppers, and onions, all glistening as if lightly sauced. Above the vegetables, there is a layer of fresh dark green arugula leaves, and thin slices of white cheese peek through under the top bread piece. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 can Pepsi Zero Sugar
2 Ciabatta Bread
1 Red Bell Pepper
1 Eggplant
1 Zucchini
1/2 Red Onion
1/2 cup Olive Oil
1 teaspoon Dried Oregano
1 1/2 tablespoon Balsamic Vinegar
1/2 tablespoon Red Wine Vinegar
2 tablespoon Fresh Basil
1/4 cup Basil Pesto
1/2 cup Arugula
2 Buffalo Mozzarella Ball
2 tablespoon Balsamic Glaze
1/4 teaspoon Salt
1/4 teaspoon Ground Black Pepper

Instructions

Step 1: In a mixing bowl, add the red bell pepper, eggplant, zucchini, red onion, olive oil, and dried oregano. Stir well to coat all the vegetables evenly.
Step 2: Heat a grill pan over high heat. Grill the vegetables in batches, turning once, until lightly browned and tender, about 4-5 minutes per side.
Step 3: Transfer the grilled vegetables to a bowl. Add balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, fresh basil, salt, and ground black pepper. Mix everything gently to combine.
Step 4: Drizzle olive oil on the cut sides of the ciabatta bread. Grill the bread cut side down for about 3 minutes or until grill marks appear.
Step 5: Spread basil pesto on the bottom piece of ciabatta. Layer the grilled vegetable mixture, arugula, and buffalo mozzarella balls on top. Drizzle with balsamic glaze.
Step 6: Place the other piece of ciabatta on top and gently press down to hold the sandwich together.
Step 7: Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately. Enjoy with a chilled can of Pepsi Zero Sugar for a refreshing pairing.

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, char the vegetables directly over a grill instead of a grill pan.
Swap buffalo mozzarella with fresh goat cheese or feta for a different creamy tang.
Add a few slices of ripe tomato for extra juiciness.
Use gluten-free bread if you prefer a gluten-free option.

Storage

Store leftover grilled vegetables and sandwich components separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Assemble the sandwich fresh to avoid sogginess. Reheat the grilled vegetables gently in a pan or microwave, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.

How to Serve

A sandwich on a white ciabatta bun with a light dusting of flour on top sits on a round wooden board over a white marbled surface. The sandwich has four visible layers: the bottom layer is covered with bright green pesto spread, followed by a colorful mix of sautéed vegetables including red and green bell peppers and caramelized onions. Above that is a layer of fresh green arugula leaves, and the top layer contains creamy white cheese slices peeking out from under the top bun. In the background, two halves of a sandwich with similar layers are slightly blurred. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I prepare the vegetables in advance?

Yes, you can grill the vegetables a day ahead and refrigerate them in an airtight container. Bring them to room temperature before assembling the sandwich for the best flavor.

What can I use instead of balsamic glaze?

If you don’t have balsamic glaze, reduce balsamic vinegar over low heat until thickened, or substitute with a drizzle of honey or a balsamic vinaigrette for a touch of sweetness and acidity.