Description
Grilled Cheese with Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
A deliciously melty and flavorful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich!
Ingredients:
2 slices of thick white or whole wheat bread
2 slices mozzarella cheese
1 cup fresh spinach
2 tbsp sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 tbsp butter
Salt and pepper (to taste)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for extra flavor)
Instructions:
Prepare the filling: Sauté spinach in a pan with a touch of olive oil for 1-2 minutes until wilted. Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and cook for another minute. Set aside.
Assemble the sandwich: Butter one side of each slice of bread. Place a slice of mozzarella cheese on the unbuttered side of each slice of bread. Add the spinach and sun-dried tomato mixture, then top with another slice of cheese.
Grill the sandwich: Heat a skillet over medium heat and place the sandwich in the pan, buttered side down. Grill for 3-4 minutes on each side, until the bread is golden and crispy and the cheese is melted.
Serve: Slice the sandwich in half and sprinkle with red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper to taste.
Enjoy this indulgent and satisfying sandwich with a side of fresh greens!
Step-by-Step Guide
Follow these detailed instructions for a perfect sandwich every time. First, ensure your skillet is preheated over medium heat. While it warms, prepare your filling. In a small pan, add a teaspoon of olive oil and your fresh spinach. Sauté just until wilted, about 90 seconds. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes and stir for another minute to warm them through. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then transfer the mixture to a bowl. Next, assemble the sandwich on a cutting board. Butter one side of each slice of bread thoroughly. On the unbuttered side of one slice, place one slice of mozzarella. Spread the spinach and tomato mixture evenly over the cheese, then top with the second slice of mozzarella. Finally, place the second slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out. Carefully transfer the sandwich to the preheated skillet. Press down gently with a spatula and grill for 3-4 minutes, until deep golden brown. Flip carefully and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Remove, let it rest for one minute, then slice diagonally.
Serving Suggestions
This gourmet grilled cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. For a classic combo, serve it with a bowl of creamy tomato soup for dipping. For a lighter meal, accompany it with a simple arugula salad dressed in a lemon vinaigrette. It also makes an excellent part of a brunch spread alongside a fresh fruit salad. For an extra touch, offer a small side of marinara or pesto sauce for dipping.
How-to Summary
Quickly recap the process: Sauté spinach and sun-dried tomatoes. Butter two bread slices. Build the sandwich with cheese, filling, and more cheese. Grill in a medium-hot skillet for 3-4 minutes per side until golden and melty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely. Provolone, Gouda, or Fontina are excellent melting cheeses that work well. For a sharper flavor, try a mild cheddar.
How do I prevent the bread from burning before the cheese melts? Always use medium heat, not high. This allows the interior to heat through without scorching the exterior. Using a lid for part of the cooking time can also help trap heat and melt the cheese faster.
Can I make this sandwich in a panini press? Yes, a panini press works wonderfully. Simply assemble the sandwich without buttering the bread, then cook it in the press according to the manufacturer’s instructions until crispy.
Are sun-dried tomatoes in oil or dry better? Tomatoes packed in oil are recommended for this recipe as they are more tender and flavorful. If using dry-packed, rehydrate them in warm water for 10 minutes before chopping.
How can I add protein to this sandwich? For a heartier meal, add a few slices of cooked bacon, turkey, or a spread of hummus before adding the spinach mixture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these pitfalls for the best results. First, do not overfill the sandwich, as this can prevent even melting and cause the filling to spill out. Second, ensure your skillet is fully preheated to medium before adding the sandwich to achieve an even, crispy sear. Third, resist the urge to press down too hard while grilling; a gentle press is enough. Finally, do not slice the sandwich immediately after cooking—letting it rest for a minute allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing a messy spill.
Conclusion
This Spinach and Sun-Dried Tomato Grilled Cheese elevates a simple comfort food into a flavorful and satisfying meal. With its perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory notes, it’s a versatile recipe you can customize to your taste. By following the detailed steps and tips provided, you can consistently create a restaurant-quality sandwich right in your own kitchen. It’s a quick, delicious solution for lunch, dinner, or a special snack.