Italian Croque-Monsieur: Pesto and Mozzarella

Introduction: The Croque-Monsieur Goes Mediterranean

The croque-monsieur, a classic of French brasseries, is reinventing itself today with flavors from the south. Lighter, more colorful, and more fragrant, the  Italian-style croque-monsieur  seduces with its simplicity and unique taste. It combines the crispness of toasted bread, the softness of mozzarella, the freshness of tomatoes, and the aroma of pesto.

It’s the perfect solution for a quick lunch, a weekend brunch, or an impromptu dinner. And best of all, no sandwich maker is required. A simple oven is all you need to achieve a golden, irresistible result.

A Short History of the Croque-Monsieur and its Italian Inspiration

Invented in Paris in the early 20th century, the croque-monsieur was originally a simple sandwich of white bread, ham, and cheese, toasted in a pan or oven. It quickly became a staple of Parisian bistro and café cuisine.

Over time, many variations have emerged: with salmon, goat cheese, blue cheese… and of course,  Italian style . This version is inspired by traditional antipasti: ham, cheese, tomatoes, and pesto—an iconic staple of Ligurian cuisine. By marrying the generosity of the French croque with the flavors of the south, we get a gourmet sandwich that will delight young and old alike.