Pin it A vibrant twist on the classic grilled cheese featuring roasted seasonal vegetables, melty mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fresh basil all sandwiched between golden crisp sourdough slices.
This sandwich quickly became a family favorite for its blend of flavors and simple preparation.
Ingredients
- Roasted Vegetables: 1 medium zucchini sliced into rounds, 1 red bell pepper sliced, 1 small red onion sliced, 1 tablespoon olive oil, 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- Sandwich Assembly: 8 slices sourdough bread, 8 ounces fresh mozzarella sliced, 2 medium tomatoes sliced, 1/3 cup fresh basil leaves, 4 tablespoons unsalted butter softened, Balsamic glaze to drizzle (optional)
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a sheet pan with parchment paper.
- Step 2:
- Arrange zucchini, red bell pepper, and red onion on the prepared pan. Drizzle with olive oil salt and pepper. Toss to coat and spread in a single layer.
- Step 3:
- Roast for 18–20 minutes flipping halfway until vegetables are tender and starting to caramelize. Remove from oven and set aside.
- Step 4:
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice.
- Step 5:
- On the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices layer mozzarella roasted vegetables tomato slices and basil. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired.
- Step 6:
- Top each with the remaining bread slices buttered side out.
- Step 7:
- Heat a large nonstick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook sandwiches in batches 3–4 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese is melted.
- Step 8:
- Slice and serve warm.
Pin it This recipe makes a perfect family lunch or a satisfying dinner on busy weeknights.
Serving Suggestions
Serve with warm tomato soup or a crisp green salad for a balanced meal.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers wrapped tightly in the fridge and reheat in a skillet for best texture.
Variations
Try adding fresh pesto spread or swapping mozzarella for provolone for a new flavor twist.
Pin it This grilled cheese is sure to become a staple with its fresh ingredients and comforting taste.
Recipe FAQs
- → What vegetables work best for roasting in this dish?
Zucchini, red bell peppers, and red onions caramelize beautifully, offering sweetness and texture. Seasonal options like eggplant or mushrooms can be substituted for variety.
- → How do I ensure the bread stays crisp during grilling?
Spread softened butter on the outer slices before grilling over medium heat. This promotes even browning and a golden, crispy crust.
- → Can I add any herbs for extra flavor?
Fresh basil is key for its aromatic note, but adding a pinch of crushed red pepper can introduce a gentle heat that complements the vegetables well.
- → Is balsamic glaze necessary for this dish?
The balsamic glaze adds a subtle tangy sweetness that enhances overall flavor, but it is optional based on personal preference.
- → What’s the best way to slice and serve the sandwich?
After grilling until cheese melts and bread crisps, slice sandwiches in half or quarters and serve warm to enjoy the layers of flavor.