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- 4 slices of sourdough bread - 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced - 1/2 cup basil pesto - 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped - 2 tablespoons butter, softened To make this pesto grilled cheese, we start with sourdough bread. It adds a nice tang and crunch. We use fresh mozzarella for its creamy texture. Basil pesto brings a burst of flavor with every bite. Sun-dried tomatoes give a sweet, rich taste that pairs well. Finally, butter helps create a golden crust when grilled. - Fresh arugula - Additional cheeses - Fresh herbs You can customize this sandwich with fresh arugula. It adds a peppery crunch that brightens the dish. You might also try different cheeses like cheddar or gouda for more flavor. Fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can also enhance the taste. - Salt - Pepper - Any preferred spices Salt and pepper are key to bringing out the flavors. You can also add your favorite spices to the mix. A pinch of garlic powder or crushed red pepper can add a nice kick. These simple additions make your pesto grilled cheese even more delicious. {{ingredient_image_1}} First, grab two slices of sourdough bread. Spread basil pesto on one side of each slice. Make sure to cover the whole slice. This adds flavor and moisture to your sandwich. Now, take one slice with pesto facing up. Layer fresh mozzarella cheese on top of that pesto. Use about half of your cheese. Then, sprinkle chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the cheese. Add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra taste. Finally, place the other slice of bread on top, with the pesto side facing down. Next, spread softened butter on the outside of both bread slices. This will help create a golden crust. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place your sandwich in the skillet and grill for 3-4 minutes. Flip the sandwich and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Press down gently with a spatula while grilling for even cooking. When both sides are golden brown and the cheese melts, remove the sandwich from the skillet. Let it cool for a minute, then cut it diagonally. If you like, add fresh arugula on the side to garnish. Enjoy the gooey goodness of your pesto grilled cheese! To get that golden crust, use these simple steps: - Choose the Right Heat: Use medium heat. This helps the cheese melt without burning the bread. - Butter Properly: Spread the butter evenly on the outside. This creates a nice, crispy layer. - Press Down Gently: Use a spatula to press the sandwich while grilling. This helps it cook evenly. You can change the taste to suit your mood. Here’s how: - Swap Cheeses: Try sharp cheddar or creamy gouda instead of mozzarella. Each cheese gives a unique flavor. - Add Spices: Sprinkle red pepper flakes for heat or garlic powder for extra flavor. Experiment and find your favorite mix! Pair your pesto grilled cheese with something tasty: - Soup: Tomato soup is a classic choice. The flavors blend well and make a comforting meal. - Salad: A fresh green salad adds crunch and lightness. It balances the richness of the sandwich. Enjoy these tips to elevate your pesto grilled cheese! Pro Tips Choose the Right Bread: For the best flavor and texture, opt for a thick slice of sourdough. It holds up well against the gooey cheese and pesto. Experiment with Cheeses: While mozzarella is delicious, try adding provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile. Mixing cheeses can elevate your grilled cheese game! Keep It Low and Slow: Cooking the sandwich on medium-low heat allows the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread, ensuring a perfectly grilled sandwich. Enhance the Flavor: Adding a pinch of garlic powder or crushed red pepper flakes to the pesto can give your sandwich an extra kick of flavor! {{image_2}} You can swap mozzarella for other cheeses. Cheddar gives a sharp flavor. Gouda adds a creamy touch. Provolone melts beautifully and offers a mild taste. Feel free to mix cheeses for more depth. A blend can create a unique taste that surprises your palate. While sourdough is great, try using ciabatta for a chewy texture. Whole grain bread adds a nutty flavor and is more nutritious. If you need gluten-free options, look for gluten-free bread varieties. Each type of bread will change the texture and taste of your sandwich. Adding seasonal vegetables can enhance your pesto grilled cheese. Try thin slices of zucchini or roasted red peppers. Fresh spinach or arugula can add a peppery bite. You might also consider spreads like hummus or avocado. These additions can create a fresh twist on the classic recipe. To store your pesto grilled cheese, wrap it tightly in foil or plastic wrap. You can place the sandwich in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents it from getting soggy. If you want to save it for later, you can freeze it. Just make sure to wrap it well to avoid freezer burn. To reheat your sandwich, use a skillet for the best results. Heat the skillet over low to medium heat. Place the sandwich on the skillet and cover it with a lid. This helps the cheese melt without burning the bread. Heat for about 3-5 minutes on each side. If you want it crispier, you can add a little butter to the skillet. You can keep your pesto grilled cheese in the fridge for about 3 days. If you freeze it, it can last up to a month. Just remember to label it with the date. Enjoy your delicious sandwich fresh for the best taste! Yes, you can use store-bought pesto. It saves time and is very convenient. However, homemade pesto usually tastes fresher and richer. Store-bought brands may lack the same depth of flavor. If you choose to buy, look for brands with high-quality ingredients. Check for fresh basil, good oil, and no preservatives. This will enhance the taste of your grilled cheese. I love sourdough for grilled cheese. Its crust is crispy, and the inside is soft. You can also use other breads like whole grain or ciabatta. Each type gives a different texture and flavor. Choose what you like best. Just make sure it can hold the cheese and pesto well. A good bread will make your sandwich even better. Making pesto grilled cheese in a microwave is fast. Here’s how to do it: 1. Prepare the Bread: Spread pesto on one side of two slices of bread. 2. Add Cheese: Place mozzarella slices on one pesto side. Top with sun-dried tomatoes. 3. Assemble: Put the other slice on top, pesto side down. 4. Microwave: Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate. Microwave for 30 seconds. Check if the cheese melts; if not, add 15 seconds. 5. Serve: Let it cool a bit, then enjoy! This method is quick but may not give you the crispy crust you get from grilling. Creating a pesto grilled cheese sandwich is simple and fun. We covered the main ingredients, like sourdough bread and fresh mozzarella. I shared step-by-step instructions to help you assemble and grill perfectly. You can customize it with different cheeses or add fresh veggies. Remember to store any leftovers properly and enjoy them later. The joy of cooking lies in experimenting with flavors. Don't be afraid to make this recipe your own and delight your taste buds!

Pesto Grilled Cheese Delight

A delicious grilled cheese sandwich with fresh mozzarella, basil pesto, and sun-dried tomatoes.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 2
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 4 slices sourdough bread
  • 1 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
  • 1/2 cup basil pesto
  • 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons butter, softened
  • to taste salt and pepper
  • a handful fresh arugula for garnish

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Bread: Take two slices of sourdough and spread basil pesto evenly on one side of each slice. This will be the inside of your sandwich.
  • Assemble the Sandwich: Place sliced mozzarella on top of the pesto on one slice. Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes on top of the cheese, and sprinkle with salt and pepper. Top with the second slice of bread, pesto side down.
  • Butter the Outside: Spread a thin layer of softened butter on the outer sides of the sandwich. This will help create a golden crust.
  • Grill the Sandwich: In a non-stick skillet over medium heat, place the sandwich and grill for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and the cheese has melted. Press down gently with a spatula for even grilling.
  • Serve and Garnish: Once grilled, remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it cool for a minute. Cut it diagonally, and if desired, garnish with fresh arugula on the side.
  • Enjoy: Serve warm, and savor the combination of gooey cheese with the fresh flavors of pesto and sun-dried tomatoes!

Notes

Optional arugula garnish adds a fresh touch.
Keyword grilled cheese, pesto, sandwich