Description
Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Spinach
This Spinach and Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich is the perfect blend of tangy feta, melty cheddar, and savory sun-dried tomatoes packed between crispy, golden-buttered bread. It’s a Mediterranean-inspired twist on a classic, ideal for a quick, hearty lunch or dinner. Customize it with honey, oregano, or chili flakes for extra flavor. You can serve it with a fresh salad or a comforting bowl of tomato soup—deliciously satisfying!
½ tbsp olive oil
2 cups spinach
4 slices bread (e.g., sourdough)
2 tbsp butter
6-8 sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
½ cup crumbled feta cheese
¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese
Pinch of oregano and chili flakes
Directions:
1. Sauté spinach in olive oil until wilted.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice. Place two slices (buttered side down) in a skillet.
3. Add sun-dried tomatoes, feta, cheddar, and spinach. Top with remaining cheese, oregano, and chili flakes.
4. Cook over medium heat until both sides are golden and cheese is gooey.
Prep Time: 10 min
Kcal: 480
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for the perfect sandwich. First, heat ½ tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add 2 cups of fresh spinach and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fully wilted. Transfer the spinach to a plate. Next, assemble your ingredients: have your chopped sun-dried tomatoes, crumbled feta, shredded cheddar, and seasonings ready. Butter one side of all four slices of bread. Place two slices in a clean, cool skillet, buttered side down. Evenly distribute the wilted spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, feta, and cheddar on the bread in the skillet. Sprinkle with a pinch of oregano and chili flakes. Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing up. Now, turn the heat to medium-low. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the bottom is a deep golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula. Cook for another 3-4 minutes on the second side, pressing down gently, until the bread is crisp and the cheese is completely melted.
Serving Suggestions
This rich, savory sandwich pairs beautifully with lighter sides. For a complete meal, serve it with a simple mixed green salad dressed with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A classic bowl of creamy tomato soup is another perfect companion for dipping. For a brunch twist, add a side of marinated olives and roasted red peppers. If you want to keep it simple, a handful of crispy potato chips or a dill pickle spear adds a wonderful contrast in texture and flavor.
How-to Summary
In short: Sauté spinach until wilted. Butter bread. Build sandwiches in a skillet with spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, feta, and cheddar. Season with oregano and chili flakes. Cook over medium-low heat for 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown and cheese is melted.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of sun-dried? Yes, but pat fresh tomato slices very dry to prevent a soggy sandwich. Sun-dried tomatoes offer a more concentrated, non-watery flavor.
What’s the best bread to use? A sturdy bread like sourdough, ciabatta, or a thick-sliced country loaf works best. It holds up to the fillings and gets beautifully crispy.
How can I make this vegetarian sandwich vegan? Use vegan butter, a plant-based cheddar, and a firm, brined vegan feta alternative. Sauté the spinach in oil as directed.
My cheese isn’t melting before the bread burns. What went wrong? Your heat is likely too high. Cook over medium-low heat and use a lid for the last minute to trap heat and melt the cheese without over-browning the bread.
Can I prepare the filling ahead of time? Absolutely. You can sauté the spinach and store it with the chopped tomatoes and crumbled cheeses in a sealed container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best result: 1) Using high heat, which burns the butter before the cheese melts. 2) Overfilling the sandwich, which makes it difficult to flip and can lead to spillage. 3) Not properly wilting the spinach, which releases water during cooking and creates steam, making the bread soggy. 4) Using cold cheese straight from the fridge; letting it come closer to room temperature helps it melt faster and more evenly.
Conclusion
This Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Spinach is a gourmet upgrade to a beloved classic. By combining tangy feta, melty cheddar, and savory sun-dried tomatoes with crispy bread, you create a satisfying and flavorful meal in minutes. With the detailed steps, tips, and serving ideas provided, you’re equipped to master this delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish. It’s a versatile recipe that promises to become a new favorite for any quick lunch or cozy dinner.