I’m as big of a fan as the next person of tossing protein on the grill for an easy breezy, summertime meal. The char and flavor that only a grill can impart means little effort is needed to create a tasty dinner for the whole family. But, since I rarely do red meat, and chicken can become boring time after time, I adore grilling all sorts of different foods to keep things interesting. From vegetables to fruit, pizzas and quesadillas, the possibilities are endless. Yes, even sandwiches.

I adore my panini pan, but when the weather beckons me outside and cravings for a gooey and warm crispy sando calls, I head straight to the grill to fire up simple and delicious paninis.

Here are four of my favorite panini recipes to share, including one from my cookbook, for a Mediterranean-style panini with kale and sweet tomato jam. Although some of these recipes instruct on how to cook them on panini pans or presses, these sandwiches can be easily done on a grill. You’ll want to find something heavy and heat proof to place on top of the sandwich while it is grilling, such as a cast iron skillet or heavy pot- or you can just use your muscles and a grilling spatula (turner) to press the sandwich while it cooks. (The Kitchn offers additional tips). Also, always be careful of the heat when cooking on a grill. You’ll want a lower flame so as not to burn the bread before the filling warms.

Chicken & Red Pesto Panini

This is a speedy weeknight dinner made special with a homemade sun-dried tomato pesto. You will have some leftover pesto from the batch, which will keep for about a week in the refrigerator. It’s excellent over pasta as well on sandwiches. Serve these panini with a green salad or bowl of soup to round out the meal.

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Chicken & Red Pesto Panini stacked on brown parchment paper

Grilled Cubano

The key to a good Cubano is the bread. If you don't live near a Cuban bakery, or otherwise cannot find a good quality Pan Cubano (bread), use a soft French style roll – crust of a harder roll will get in the way of grilling and pressing the sandwich. My recipe is not an authentic Cubano, as it does not use mojo-marinated pork shoulder, but this version is easier to make and still delivers the flavor. Smoked turkey is a good stand in and makes for a lighter sandwich that you can enjoy any day of the week.

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Crab & Lemon Goat Cheese Panini

Berbere is an Ethiopian spice blend that is a welcome addition to your pantry beyond these delicious sandwiches. Made from ingredients like coriander, fenugreek, coriander, chili, cumin, allspice and cinnamon, it's a powerhouse of flavor that in this dish accentuates the sweetness of the crabmeat and fresh goat cheese. It can be found in specialty groceries and online, however, if you cannot locate it, use your favorite chili powder.

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Garlicky Kale Panini with Sweet Tomato Jam, Gruyere & Pancetta

These panini require assembling two components, the tomato jam and the sauteed kale. It’s easy enough to do on a weeknight, but you can also prep these elements ahead, and serve the sandwiches for a casual dinner get-together with friends. Serve them with a crisp fresh salad in the summertime, or a warm comforting soup in the winter.

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