Panini Power!

In Italian the word panino means bread and refers to a bread roll. A Panini is a grilled sandwich made from bread such as baguette, ciabatta, etc and cut horizontally and filled with ingredients such as chicken, ham, deli meats or vegetables and of course, cheese.  They are served warm and are pressed in a Panini grill.
The history of the Panini sandwich dates back to the 1950’s but they became popular in Italy in the 70’s and 80’s. The trend in the United States became popular in New York and spread throughout the country during the 80’s. The Panini began making a resurgence again within the last 10 years and has taken hold!  A panini press or grill was designed distinctly for heating sandwiches which were either meat, vegetables or cheese. The press has a heated bottom plate that is fixed with a heated top plate that closes on top of the sandwich.  Its function is to heat food to an appropriate internal temperature with grill marks and have a crisp finish. If a home cook doesn’t have a Panini maker you can always use a cast iron skillet as they produce the highest heat capability and by placing another cast iron skillet on top of your sandwich you are getting the “pressed” sandwich.
The choices are endless with this sandwich so you can use whatever you and your family like. Panini’s are great year round so think seasonal vegetables in your menu and be as creative as you want. You can make anything from a peanut butter and jelly for your little ones or as spicy as you might like using chipotles or even pesto with your choice of meat and cheese.  If you have a vegetarian in the family not to worry.  There are so many options for them as well using seasonal vegetables and cheese. And, if you like them sweet go for a decadent chocolate, raspberry and brie Panini… yum!  Why not start a Panini night for your family and let them choose. You can start a whole new tradition, have fun and sit down to have a family meal together.
The Glow Spot Cafe is celebrating its grand opening! Please join us in our kid-friendly and family friendly colorful environment. Serving great Panini’s, crepes, salads, burgers, wings and pizza. We also have wonderful smoothies and coffee. We look forward to seeing you!
The Glow Spot Café is located at 22880 Copperhill Drive in Santa Clarita, 91350. Please call 661-297-6000 for more information.