Save It A savory, melty grilled cheese sandwich bursting with the rich flavors of sun-dried tomato pesto and creamy mozzarella, perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
Save It This easy-to-make sandwich offers a gourmet experience with minimal effort, making it an ideal choice for a busy weekday lunch or a cozy dinner.
Ingredients
- 2 slices of bread (your choice: sourdough, whole wheat, or white)
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomato pesto
- 2 slices mozzarella cheese
- 1 tablespoon butter (unsalted)
Instructions
- Step 1
- Spread 1 tablespoon of sun-dried tomato pesto on one side of each bread slice.
- Step 2
- Lay both slices pesto-side up. Place mozzarella cheese on top of one slice.
- Step 3
- Place the second slice of bread on top, pesto sides facing the cheese, to form a sandwich.
- Step 4
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the butter.
- Step 5
- Once the butter is melted and foaming, place the sandwich in the skillet.
- Step 6
- Cook for 3–4 minutes until the bottom is golden brown.
- Step 7
- Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side for another 3–4 minutes, pressing gently, until golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 8
- Remove from the skillet, let rest for 1 minute, then slice and serve.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To achieve the perfect golden crust, use a skillet or frying pan over medium heat. A butter knife is essential for spreading the pesto evenly, and a spatula will help you press the sandwich gently to ensure the cheese melts thoroughly.
Varianten und Anpassungen
Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different cheese profile. Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version. For extra flavor, you can add fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of grated Parmesan before grilling.
Serviervorschläge
Serve this sandwich with a classic bowl of tomato soup or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Save It Enjoy this delicious vegetarian meal that contains milk and wheat. Always check your specific pesto and bread ingredients for possible cross-contamination or additional allergens.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → What type of bread works best?
Sourdough provides excellent flavor and structure, but whole wheat or white bread both work beautifully. Choose a sturdy slice that can hold the generous pesto and cheese filling without becoming soggy.
- → Can I use store-bought pesto?
Absolutely. Store-bought sun-dried tomato pesto works perfectly. Just check the label for pine nuts if you have allergies. Homemade pesto offers more control over salt levels and ingredients.
- → How do I get golden, crispy results?
Keep the heat at medium and don't rush. Let each side cook for 3-4 minutes undisturbed. The butter should foam but not burn. Pressing gently helps the cheese melt evenly while creating that coveted golden crust.
- → What cheeses pair well with sun-dried tomato pesto?
Mozzarella melts beautifully and provides mild creaminess. For more flavor, try provolone for sharpness, fontina for nuttiness, or add grated Parmesan for extra savory depth. A blend often works best.
- → Can I make this ahead?
These are best enjoyed fresh off the skillet for maximum crunch and melty cheese. However, you can assemble the sandwiches ahead and store them wrapped in the refrigerator for up to 4 hours before cooking.
- → What should I serve with this sandwich?
Classic tomato soup creates the perfect comforting pairing. A crisp green salad with vinaigrette cuts through the richness. For a heartier meal, serve with roasted vegetables or a light pasta salad.