Avocado, Mozzarella, And Tomato Grilled Cheese (Print version)

Buttery grilled cheese with creamy avocado, juicy tomato, and melted mozzarella tucked inside crisp golden bread.

# Ingredients:

For the sandwich

01 - 2 slices thick sourdough bread, about 2 oz (55 g) each
02 - 1/2 ripe avocado, sliced or lightly mashed
03 - 2 slices ripe tomato, blotted dry
04 - 3 oz (85 g) low-moisture mozzarella, sliced
05 - 2 fresh basil leaves, torn, optional
06 - 1 tablespoon (14 g) unsalted butter, softened
07 - 1/8 teaspoon kosher salt, plus more as needed
08 - Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Slice the tomato thinly, season with a tiny pinch of salt, and blot both sides with a paper towel to remove extra juice.
02 - Slice or lightly mash the avocado. Season it with black pepper and a small pinch of salt.
03 - Layer half of the mozzarella on one bread slice, then add avocado, tomato, basil if using, and the remaining mozzarella. Close with the second bread slice.
04 - Spread softened butter evenly over the outside of both bread slices, coating close to the edges for even browning.
05 - Cook in a skillet over medium heat for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently once or twice, until the bread is golden and the mozzarella is melted.
06 - Transfer to a cutting board and rest for 1 minute. Slice in half and serve hot.

# Good to know:

01 - Best eaten right after cooking while the bread is crisp.
02 - Use low-moisture mozzarella for the easiest melt.
03 - Blotting the tomato helps prevent soggy bread.