Merken A gourmet twist on the classic grilled cheese, this recipe features slow-roasted tomatoes, vibrant basil pesto, and gooey melted cheese between slices of rustic bread. It is the perfect choice for a comforting lunch or a light dinner that feels truly special.
Merken The secret to this sandwich is the patient roasting of the tomatoes, which transforms them into flavor-packed gems. When layered with melted cheese and toasted to golden perfection, every bite is a harmony of textures and Italian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients
- Roasted Tomatoes
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/4 tsp sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp dried oregano
- Sandwich
- 4 slices rustic sourdough or country bread
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
- 2 tbsp basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese (or provolone or fontina)
- 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
- Roasted tomatoes (from above)
- Optional: handful of baby spinach or arugula leaves
Instructions
- Step 1
- Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
- Step 2
- Arrange tomato slices on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano. Roast for 50–60 minutes, flipping halfway, until tomatoes are deeply caramelized but still hold their shape. Let cool slightly.
- Step 3
- Spread butter on one side of each bread slice. Place 2 slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface.
- Step 4
- Spread 1 tbsp pesto on each unbuttered side. Top each with 2 slices mozzarella, a layer of roasted tomatoes, 2 slices cheddar, and spinach or arugula if using. Cover with remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Step 5
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Add sandwiches and cook 4–5 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
- Step 6
- Slice in half and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
Using a baking sheet and parchment paper ensures the tomatoes don't stick during their long roast. To get the perfect golden crust on your bread, use a skillet or griddle over medium-low heat; this allows the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the sourdough slices.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a flavor variation, try using sun-dried tomato pesto or adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for some heat. You can substitute the cheeses for smoked gouda or gruyère to change the profile, or use gluten-free bread to make this recipe gluten-friendly.
Serviervorschläge
This Roasted Tomato Pesto Grilled Cheese pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad or a classic cup of creamy tomato soup. It is a hearty enough dish to serve as a main course for a light dinner or a satisfying gourmet lunch.
Merken With its rich, savory fillings and crunchy exterior, this gourmet sandwich is a testament to how high-quality ingredients can transform a simple meal into something extraordinary. Enjoy the gooey, melted results of this American-Italian fusion delight!
