Mediterranean Grilled Cheese Sandwich

There is nothing quite like biting into a warm, crisp Mediterranean grilled cheese sandwich layered with creamy mozzarella, tangy feta, briny olives, and a good punch of basil. It is my favorite way to give the classic comfort food a little vacation to the coast and it never fails to bring big smiles to the table.

After the first time I built these sandwiches for a quick weeknight dinner my partner said it tasted like a sunny afternoon in Greece I love making these for lazy lunches when we need something special but simple

Ingredients

• Artisan bread: Look for loaves with a chewy crust and tender inside such as sourdough ciabatta or whole grain for perfect crunch
• Unsalted butter: Softened butter is easiest to spread and delivers a golden crisp exterior every time
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts smoothly and binds all the fillings together Always bring to room temperature first for even melting
• Crumbled feta cheese: Adds salty tang and Mediterranean flair Opt for blocks packed in brine and crumble it yourself for the freshest flavor
• Sun dried tomatoes: Chopped for pops of sweet and chewy depth Packed in oil are juiciest and most flavorful
• Kalamata olives: Sliced olives provide distinctive brininess Choose pitted ones for easy slicing and mild saltiness
• Fresh basil leaves: Adds a burst of herbal freshness Give leaves a gentle slap between your hands before adding to release extra fragrance
• Dried oregano: Optional but classic for Mediterranean aroma Always check your dried herbs are still vibrant and aromatic
• Roasted red peppers: Optional add in for a sweet smoky note Use freshly roasted or jarred but avoid vinegary varieties
• Baby spinach or arugula: Optional greens add earthiness and color Choose crisp bright greens
• Grilled eggplant or zucchini: Optional for a hearty touch Pick young firm veggies for minimal bitterness

Instructions

Prepare the Bread:

Start by spreading softened butter evenly over one side of each bread slice This ensures the sandwiches will develop a deeply golden crisp crust as they grill

Build the Base:

Arrange two slices of bread buttered side down on your work surface Sprinkle half the shredded mozzarella evenly over each This cheesy base helps glue the other ingredients together

Layer the Fillings:

Scatter chopped sun dried tomatoes sliced Kalamata olives and plenty of fresh basil leaves on top of the mozzarella Distribute them evenly for every bite to be packed with flavor

Add the Feta and Oregano:

Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese generously over the vegetable layer If desired add a dash of dried oregano for that distinct Mediterranean flair

Top with More Cheese:

Scatter the remaining mozzarella over the fillings The extra layer of cheese will melt and help all the flavors mingle perfectly

Seal the Sandwich:

Place the remaining bread slices on top buttered side facing out Press gently to keep everything secure

Grill to Perfection:

Preheat a skillet or griddle over medium heat once hot carefully transfer the sandwiches onto the surface Grill each side for two to three minutes pressing lightly with a spatula until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted

Slice and Serve:

Transfer sandwiches to a cutting board and cut diagonally for maximum visual appeal Serve immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture

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Basil is my secret favorite part of these sandwiches Fresh basil always brings back memories of tending the little herb pots with my kids on the windowsill and picking leaves just before we grilled up a batch Nothing tastes quite as vibrant

Storage Tips

These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh hot and crisp If you do need to store leftovers wrap cooled sandwiches in foil and reheat in a toaster oven for a few minutes to regain crunch Avoid the microwave as it softens the bread

Ingredient Substitutions

No mozzarella Swap in provolone or Monterey Jack For a dairy free take go for vegan cheese shreds and olive oil instead of butter Skip the olives if you want a milder bite or try green olives for a twist

Serving Suggestions

I love serving this grilled cheese alongside a bright tomato cucumber salad or with a bowl of roasted red pepper soup For a heartier meal pair it with homemade hummus and roasted vegetables on the side

Cultural Context

Mediterranean flavors like olives feta and sun dried tomatoes have roots in the traditional cuisines of Greece and Italy This simple grilled cheese borrows those familiar ingredients for a playful spin on a beloved comfort food

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This grilled cheese brings sunshine to any mealtime Serve hot and enjoy every bite of Mediterranean flavor.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What bread works best for this sandwich?

Sourdough, ciabatta, or whole grain provide a sturdy, crisp texture that complements the melty cheese filling.

→ How can I ensure the cheese melts evenly?

Let cheese reach room temperature before assembling and grill over medium heat, flipping as needed for even melting.

→ Are there other vegetables I can add?

Grilled eggplant, zucchini, roasted red peppers, or fresh greens like spinach add layers of flavor and texture.

→ Can I make this sandwich vegetarian?

Yes, all core ingredients are vegetarian. Check cheese labels to ensure rennet-free varieties if needed.

→ What are good side dishes with this sandwich?

Pair with tomato soup, crisp salad, or a selection of roasted Mediterranean vegetables for a complete meal.