Cherry Tomato Caprese Grilled Cheese (Print)

Sourdough, mozzarella, cherry tomatoes, and basil unite for a flavorful toasted sandwich.

# Components:

→ Bread components

01 - 4 slices sourdough or country-style bread
02 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Core components

03 - 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
04 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
05 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves

→ Seasoning and finishing

06 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
07 - Salt, to taste
08 - Black pepper, to taste
09 - Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)

# Directions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and sauté for 2-3 minutes until just softened. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat and set aside.
02 - Butter one side of each bread slice.
03 - Place two bread slices, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Layer each with half of the sliced mozzarella, sautéed tomatoes, and fresh basil leaves. If using, lightly drizzle with balsamic glaze.
04 - Top with the remaining bread slices, ensuring the buttered side faces up.
05 - Heat a clean skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place assembled sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
06 - Remove the grilled sandwiches from the heat, slice in half, and serve immediately.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Ready in just 20 minutes from start to finish
  • Uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand
  • Vegetarian friendly while still being satisfying
  • Combines classic Italian Caprese flavors with comfort food appeal
02 -
  • Each sandwich provides a full serving of vegetables
  • Makes an impressive yet easy lunch for guests
  • Can be made year round though best with summer tomatoes
03 -
  • Always sauté the tomatoes first rather than using them raw. This small step concentrates their flavor and prevents the sandwich from becoming watery.
  • Let the assembled sandwich rest for 1 minute before cooking to allow the fillings to settle which makes it less likely to fall apart when flipping.
  • Cook over medium low heat and be patient. This ensures the cheese melts completely while the bread achieves that perfect golden crust without burning.

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