A panini sandwich is a popular type of grilled sandwich made on Italian bread. Technically, the singular form of the word panini in Italian is panino, which does refer to a stuffed-bread sandwich. However, this type of grilled sandwich is most commonly referred to as a panini, and often pluralized as paninis.

Traditionally, a panini is made by stuffing either a loaf of bread or two slices of hearty bread with meats, cheeses, vegetables and any other additions you choose. Panini sandwiches have become quite popular grilled, though it is not absolutely necessary to grill the sandwich. If you do wish to grill the sandwich, the outsides of the bread may or may not be buttered or brushed with extra virgin olive oil to give it a crispier texture.

A panini press may be used to grill the sandwich, which is essentially a two-sided grill. This method may also be accomplished by placing the sandwich on a grill, pressing down firmly with a spatula, and then flipping the sandwich over and repeating the process. It is relatively easy to make a delicious panini sandwich.

Of course, you may use any type of bread you want, but it is important to use a relatively dense bread that will hold up well on the grill. Foccacia, ciabatta and sourdough breads are popular, along with herbed loaves of bread. Thick slices of Italian or French bread will also work well. Strongly flavored meats such as salami and prosciutto are often used with cheeses such as mozzarella, provolone or asiago.

If you do not like these particular meats and cheeses, feel free to switch them out for anything you like better. Grilled chicken, turkey and roast beef can also make delicious paninis. Bear in mind that the meat needs to be cooked before being placed in the sandwich -- grilling a panini only heats it through, but does not actually cook anything. After you've selected your bread, meat and cheese, it is time to add extra toppings.

Some popular additions to paninis include spinach, roasted red peppers, basil, olive oil, olives, tomatoes, garlic, balsamic vinegar and oregano. If you wish to swap out the meat and make a vegetable panini, you might use eggplant or zucchini, or any other vegetables you like. A panini is a delicious and filling meal that is simple and quick to make, and can be customized to your heart's content.