This Avocado, Mozzarella, and Tomato Grilled Cheese is a delightful twist on the classic comfort food. It combines the creamy richness of avocado, the melty goodness of mozzarella, and the juicy sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all sandwiched between two slices of hearty multigrain bread. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this grilled cheese elevates the traditional recipe with fresh, wholesome ingredients.
Ingredients:
- ½ avocado, sliced: The creamy avocado adds a rich, buttery texture that pairs beautifully with the other ingredients.
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese: Mozzarella provides that ooey-gooey, melty goodness that makes grilled cheese so irresistible. Its mild flavor complements the avocado and tomatoes without overpowering them.
- 4 cherry tomatoes, sliced in half: Cherry tomatoes bring a burst of sweetness and a slight acidity, balancing out the creaminess of the avocado and cheese.
- 2 slices multigrain bread (such as Ezekiel sprouted grain bread): Multigrain bread adds a nutty flavor and a bit of crunch, plus it’s packed with nutrients, making this grilled cheese a bit more wholesome.
- A dab of butter: Butter is essential for achieving that golden, crispy exterior on the bread. It also adds a rich flavor that ties everything together.
Instructions:
- Prepare the Ingredients: Start by slicing the avocado and cherry tomatoes. Make sure the avocado slices are not too thick, so they fit comfortably between the bread slices. Set the slices aside.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Lay out the two slices of multigrain bread. On one slice, layer two slices of mozzarella cheese, ensuring they cover the bread evenly. Next, place the avocado slices on top of the mozzarella. Distribute the sliced cherry tomatoes over the avocado. Finally, add the remaining two slices of mozzarella on top. This layering ensures that the cheese melts around the avocado and tomatoes, holding the sandwich together. Top with the second slice of bread.
- Butter the Bread: Lightly butter the outside of each slice of bread. This will help achieve that golden, crispy crust that’s essential for a perfect grilled cheese.
- Grill the Sandwich: Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, place the sandwich in the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on one side, until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. You may need to press down gently with a spatula to help the cheese melt and the sandwich to hold together.
- Check for Doneness: The sandwich is ready when both sides are golden brown and the cheese is fully melted. If the bread is browning too quickly before the cheese has melted, lower the heat slightly and cover the pan with a lid. This will help the cheese melt without burning the bread.
- Serve: Remove the sandwich from the skillet and let it sit for a minute before slicing in half. This resting time allows the cheese to set slightly, making it easier to cut without everything spilling out. Serve immediately while it’s hot and melty.
Tips for the Best Grilled Cheese:
- Cheese Selection: While mozzarella is perfect for its melting properties, you can experiment with other cheeses like provolone, cheddar, or even a bit of goat cheese for added tanginess.
- Bread Choice: Multigrain bread not only adds a nutty flavor but also provides a sturdier base for all the fillings. However, you can use any bread you prefer, such as sourdough or whole wheat.
- Butter vs. Mayo: Some people swear by using mayonnaise instead of butter on the outside of the bread. Mayo can give an even more golden and crispy crust due to its higher smoke point.
Variations:
- Add Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle some fresh basil or cilantro between the layers for an added burst of flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, add a few slices of jalapeño or a dash of red pepper flakes to the sandwich before grilling.
- Protein Boost: Add some grilled chicken or turkey slices to make the sandwich more filling.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe:
This grilled cheese is not just a comfort food; it’s a nutritious, flavorful meal in itself. The avocado adds healthy fats, while the mozzarella provides protein. The cherry tomatoes offer a dose of vitamins, and the multigrain bread contributes fiber and whole grains. It’s a perfect balance of indulgence and health, making it a great choice whether you’re feeding yourself or serving it to loved ones.
The Avocado, Mozzarella, and Tomato Grilled Cheese is more than just a sandwich—it’s an experience. With each bite, you get the creamy avocado, gooey mozzarella, and juicy tomatoes, all encased in crispy, buttery bread. It’s simple, quick to make, and incredibly satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a comforting meal or a quick snack, this grilled cheese will hit the spot every time.
