Portobello Mushroom Panini with Pesto Mayonnaise

With its creamy pesto mayonnaise and juicy portobello mushrooms, this hearty sandwich will appeal to vegetarians and meat-eaters alike. Don’t worry about needing special equipment to make these sandwiches--a double-burner griddle or two skillets work just fine. You can even use an indoor electric grill, if you have one.

cup reduced-fat mayonnaise 2 tablespoons purchased refrigerated pesto 4 (4-inch) portobello mushrooms, stems discarded 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar 1/2 teaspoon salt 1/4 teaspoon pepper 8 slices artisan Italian bread (1/2 inch)

4 (1-oz.) slices mozzarella cheese 2 purchased roasted red bell peppers, halved 1. Combine mayonnaise and pesto in small bowl.

Brush both sides of mushrooms with vinegar, letting it soak into each side before brushing the other side. Sprinkle with salt and pepper; lightly spray with cooking spray.

Heat large nonstick skillet over medium heat until hot. Add mushrooms, gill-side up; weight down with second skillet. Cook 6 minutes or until lightly browned, turning once (or cook in panini maker according to manufacturer’s directions).

Spread bread with pesto mayonnaise. Top 4 of the slices with cheese; arrange mushrooms over cheese. Top with bell pepper and remaining bread. Spray both sides of sandwiches with cooking spray.

Heat large nonstick skillet over high heat until hot. Add sandwiches; weight down with second skillet. Reduce heat to medium to medium-high; cook 4 to 6 minutes or until golden brown and cheese is melted, turning once (or cook in panini maker).

sandwiches PER SANDWICH: 370 calories, 21 g total fat (6.5 g saturated fat), 15 g protein, 32 g carbohydrate, 25 mg cholesterol, 1135 mg sodium, 3 g fiber