The Zucchini Times - The Vegetarian Italian Hero

This is so awesome - you'll grow more zucchini (and eggplants, and tomatoes, and basil) to have it at least once a week!

The Vegetarian Italian Hero
1 loaf ciabatta bread - homemade or purchased
1 small eggplant, sliced lengthwise
1 medium zucchini, sliced lengthwise
1 roasted red pepper
1 fresh tomato, sliced
4 Tablespoons balsamic vinegar
6 Tablespoons olive oil
2 teaspoons Bragg's Liquid Aminos
3 garlic cloves, minced or pressed
1/2 cup basil pesto - homemade or purchased
1/4 cup olive tapenade - homemade or purchased
4 slices of good quality provolone cheese, halved
extra olive oil as needed

Combine the balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, Bragg's, and salt & pepper to taste. Place in a shallow pan and toss the sliced zucchini and eggplant in the marinade. Allow to marinate for at least 30 minutes.

Meanwhile, lite the grill. When marinated, grill the zucchini and eggplant until softer and caramelized. Slice the loaf of ciabatta in half and drizzle each half with olive oil. Grill, cut side down until lightly toasted. When all are grilled, assemble sandwich.

Spread the basil pesto on the bottom half of the bread. Next, layer half of the provolone, then the tomatoes, the eggplant, the zucchini, the roasted red pepper, and another layer of provolone. You could add a few fresh oregano leaves to the center if you'd like.

Spread the top half of the bread with the olive tapenade. Carefully put the top on the sandwich. Press the sandwich down and wrap tightly with foil (recycled if available). Put the whole sandwich on the grill for 4 minutes per side. Remove and allow to cool slightly.

Slice and enjoy with a glass of wine!

Peace
DharmaDogs