Description
Welcome food enthusiasts! If you love combining rich flavors with simple ingredients, then thisCaprese Grilled Cheese Sandwichis for you. Combining fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil pesto, this delicious twist on the classic grilled cheese will elevate your lunch to gourmet status. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or a way to impress guests, this recipe has it all!
Ingredients
- 2slicescrusty sourdough bread
- 2–3tablespoonsbasil pesto
- 4 ozfresh mozzarella cheese, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 1large ripe tomato, sliced 1/4 inch thick
- 8–10fresh basil leaves
- 2 tablespoonssalted butter, softened
- Optional: Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- For a lighter version, you can use whole wheat bread or gluten-free bread.
- Vegan mozzarella or dairy-free pesto can easily transform this into a vegan option.
- Add spinach or arugula for extra greens.
Instructions
- Spread about 1 tablespoon of basil pesto on one side of each slice of bread. Make sure to coat the bread evenly for maximum flavor.
- On one slice of bread, layer half of the mozzarella cheese slices, followed by the tomato slices and fresh basil leaves. Top it with the remaining mozzarella cheese and place the other slice of bread on top, with the pesto side facing down.
- Heat a skillet over medium-low heat. Spread the softened butter on the outside of both slices of bread. This will help achieve a crispy, golden-brown crust.
- Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until the bread is toasted. Carefully flip and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the cheese is fully melted.
- Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute before slicing. For an extra pop of flavor, drizzle with balsamic glaze. Enjoy!
Notes
Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for high-quality tomatoes and mozzarella for the best taste.
Butter Substitute: If you prefer, you can use olive oil instead of butter for a slightly lighter version.
Keep the Heat Low: Cooking the sandwich over medium-low heat ensures that the cheese melts without burning the bread.
Add a Crunch: For extra texture, add a few slices of avocado or grilled bell peppers.