Description
A flavorful and healthy grilled sandwich melt featuring fresh mozzarella, balsamic vinaigrette-dressed veggies, and whole grain bread. Perfect for a quick, indulgent yet nourishing dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
- 4 slices whole grain bread
- 6 oz (170g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
- 1/4 cup (60ml) balsamic vinaigrette (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 large or 2 medium tomato slices
- 1 cup (30g) baby spinach
- 1/4 small red onion, thinly sliced (optional)
- 2 tbsp (30ml) olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional protein additions: 3 oz (85g) thinly sliced grilled chicken, turkey, or prosciutto
Instructions
- Slice the tomato and red onion thinly. In a small bowl, toss the baby spinach, tomato, and onion with the 1/4 cup balsamic vinaigrette. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
- Spread a thin layer of butter or brush olive oil on one side of each slice of bread. This side will be the outside that grills to a golden crisp.
- Place two slices of bread butter-side-down on a clean surface. Layer half of the mozzarella slices evenly on each. Next, pile on the balsamic-dressed spinach, tomato, and onion. If adding protein, layer it here. Top with remaining mozzarella slices, then place the other bread slices on top, butter-side-up.
- Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium-low heat. Place the sandwich in the pan and press down gently with a spatula. Cook for about 4-5 minutes until the bottom is golden brown and the cheese starts to melt. Carefully flip and cook the other side another 4-5 minutes. If the bread browns too fast and the cheese isn’t melting, reduce heat and cover the pan with a lid.
- When both sides are crispy and golden and the cheese is fully melted, remove from heat and let rest for 1 minute.
- Cut the sandwich diagonally and serve warm. Optionally, drizzle with extra balsamic vinaigrette.
Notes
Use medium-low heat to ensure cheese melts without burning bread. Buttering the bread is key for a crispy crust. Toss veggies in vinaigrette ahead to soften and meld flavors. Flip sandwich carefully and only once. For vegan version, use vegan mozzarella and vegan butter or olive oil, and ensure vinaigrette is honey-free. Gluten-free bread can be used but grill slower to avoid burning.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 420
- Fat: 18
- Carbohydrates: 38
- Fiber: 5
- Protein: 22
Keywords: grilled sandwich, balsamic vinaigrette, mozzarella melt, healthy dinner, quick sandwich, vegetarian option