You can make those delicious rustic Italian sandwiches with a panini press. A panini starts with thick slices of Italian bread or other rustic bread. This is important because the panini press has ridges to create those lines that we associate with a panini sandwich. If the bread is too thin, the ridges will cut through it and your cooking and perhaps melting cheese will seep through.

A panini press is constructed so that it can handle a big and thick sandwich. Usually the top has hinges so that it can swing open very wide. The panini press then cooks both sides of the sandwich at once.

Major panini press makers include Delonghi, Cuisinart, Krups, Hamilton Beach. Even the Biggest Loser TV show is sponsoring a panini press.

I usually like to stay with the Italian theme when I make a panini sandwich, so I use thick slices of salami or Italian cured ham also known as prosciutto. But roasted chicken, or leftover steak also makes a delicious panini. For an experiment I once tried store-bought coldcuts and didn't have much luck.

Then I love to slice roasted peppers, carrots, broccoli sprouts, or mushrooms. Add a cheese that melts well like mozzerrella or assiago. The heat merges all of the flavors from the meat, vegetables, and cheese creating a wonderfully satisfying panini sandwich.

The DeLonghi CGH800-U Retro Panini Grill has a hinged top so it can handle any kind of bread or rolls. It has non-stick plates for easy clean-up and these plates slant downward to allow grease to drain off for a lower fat gram count. It has a large cool-touch hand so there's less chance of you burning yourself. The beautiful stainless steel grill with its retro style will look great on a buffet or brunch table. It measures 14 inches x 12.5 inches x 5 inches. You also get a panini cookbook with your purchase to get you started. Although after using your panini press just a few times, I know you'll branch out and confidently make your own panini.

Use The Hamilton Beach Gourmet Panini Press and you'll think you've been transported to your favorite sandwich deli. Because of the hinge design you can make a gentle little cheese panini or pile on meats, cheses, vegetables, and chutneys. The specially designed floating lid will accomodate the largest of panini creations! The non-stick grill plates measure 12 inches by 8.5 inches. So you have lots of room for your gourmet panini creations and clean-up is very quick and easy.

A practical side clamp will keep it closed when not in use. So you have the option of storing it upright or on its side.

Create authentic panini sandwiches with the Cuisinart GR-1 Griddler Panini and Sandwich Press. The Cuisinart panini press has a floating hinge which will accommodate the thickest panini you can dream up. This panini press has 11" x 17" upper and lower non-stick grill plates provide even heat with a drip spout to easily remove any fat that might cook off in the process. You'll know when the panini press is heating up and when it's ready to cook with indicator lights. The stainless steel housing looks great with other stainless steel appliances or with any other kitchen decor.

Rev-Up this powerful 1800 watt Biggest Loser Double-Up Grill and Panini Press and learn how to make great tasting and healthy gourmet Panini sandwiches. You'll be able to use thick and crusty French or Italian breads. The non-stick cooking plates and slide out drip tray make clean up a breeze. And the adjustable tilt feature lets you decide how much fat to drain out. A rubber grip handle makes it easy to use.

You can also use a panini pand and separate press to make great panini sandwiches. The Calphalon Contemporary Nonstick Panini Pan and Press is this kind of system. The pan has ridges so that you will still get that panini look. And the heavy top weight, presses the panini, so that it cooks quickly and evenly. You do have to turn the sandwich over during the cooking process. But with a large spatula that shouldn't be an issue.

You can also use a panini pan to sear salmon or chicken breasts and cook them as well. Just put a little olive oil in the pan and cook away.