🧀 Mediterranean Grilled Cheese Sandwich
📝 Description:
This isn’t your average grilled cheese. Infused with classic Mediterranean flavors, this sandwich combines the creamy melt of mozzarella and provolone with tangy sun-dried tomatoes, fresh greens, and just a touch of red onion for zing. It’s crispy on the outside, gooey and flavorful on the inside—a perfect quick lunch or cozy dinner.
🧂 Ingredients (For 1 Sandwich – multiply as needed):
- 2 slices rustic white or sourdough bread
- 1 tbsp butter (softened, for spreading)
- 1/3 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/3 cup shredded provolone or fontina cheese
- 2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
- 2 tbsp baby spinach or fresh basil, roughly chopped
- 1 tbsp finely diced red onion (optional)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
🔥 Instructions:
- Prep the Bread:
Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. - Layer the Filling:
On the unbuttered side of one slice, layer mozzarella, provolone/fontina, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach or basil, and red onion (if using). Season lightly with salt and black pepper. - Assemble:
Top with the second slice of bread, buttered side out. - Grill:
Heat a nonstick skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 2–3 minutes per side, pressing gently, until golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. - Serve:
Slice in half and serve warm. Great with a side of tomato soup or cucumber salad.
🧠 Notes:
- Cheese swaps: You can use feta or goat cheese for a tangier twist.
- Bread options: Ciabatta or whole-grain work beautifully too.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: Use oil-packed ones for extra flavor and richness.
- Add-ons: Olives or roasted red peppers can make it even more Mediterranean.
💡 Tips:
- Low heat = melty cheese + crispy bread. Don’t rush it on high heat or the bread will burn before the cheese melts.
- Press the sandwich slightly with a spatula or use a sandwich press for even grilling.
- Let it rest for 1 minute before slicing—it helps keep the layers intact.
🍽️ Servings:
- 1 sandwich per recipe
- Multiply ingredients for more servings.
🔢 Nutritional Info (Approx. per sandwich):
- Calories: ~420
- Protein: ~18g
- Fat: ~24g
- Carbohydrates: ~30g
- Fiber: ~2g
- Calcium: ~35% DV
(Values will vary based on bread and cheese used.)
🌿 Health Benefits:
- Calcium & Protein: From cheese—great for bones and muscles.
- Antioxidants: From sun-dried tomatoes and greens like spinach or basil.
- Healthy fats: Especially if using sun-dried tomatoes in olive oil.
❓ Q&A:
Q: Can I make this sandwich vegan?
A: Yes! Use plant-based butter and cheeses. Add grilled veggies or hummus for creaminess.
Q: Can I prepare this ahead?
A: You can assemble the sandwich and store it (ungrilled) in the fridge for a few hours. Grill just before serving for best texture.
Q: Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried?
A: You can, but it may release moisture—pat them dry or roast them briefly first.
Q: What sides go well with this?
A: Try tomato soup, tabbouleh, cucumber yogurt salad, or roasted chickpeas.