Are you ready to elevate your grilled cheese game to a whole new level? Say goodbye to ordinary sandwiches and hello to the vibrant flavors of an Asparagus Pesto Grilled Cheese Sandwich! This mouthwatering creation combines the rich, nutty taste of pesto with the crisp freshness of asparagus and gooey mozzarella, all nestled between perfectly toasted bread. Whether you're looking for a quick lunch or a delightful dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. Ready to take your taste buds on a delicious adventure? Let’s dive into the details of this irresistible dish!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: American
Serves: 2 servings
Ingredients
- 4 slices bread
- 1/2 cup pesto sauce
- 1 cup asparagus, trimmed and blanched
- 4 slices mozzarella cheese
- Butter for grilling
Instructions
- Prepare the asparagus by trimming the woody ends and blanching in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes until bright green and tender-crisp. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking, then pat dry with paper towels.
- Spread butter evenly on one side of each bread slice, ensuring complete coverage for even golden browning.
- On the non-buttered side of two bread slices, spread a generous layer of pesto sauce, covering the entire surface.
- Layer the blanched asparagus spears evenly across the pesto-covered bread slices, ensuring they are distributed uniformly.
- Place two slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the asparagus, covering the entire surface of each slice.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward, creating a sandwich.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat. Place the sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 1-2 minutes, then slice diagonally and serve hot.
Tips
- Perfectly Blanched Asparagus: For the best texture, ensure you blanch the asparagus just until tender-crisp. This will keep them vibrant and prevent them from becoming mushy in the sandwich.
- Butter It Up: Don’t skimp on the butter! A generous spread on the outside of the bread will create that irresistible golden crust that everyone loves in a grilled cheese.
- Pesto Perfection: Feel free to use store-bought pesto for convenience, or make your own for a fresh twist. Experiment with different herbs or nuts to customize the flavor!
- Low and Slow: Cooking the sandwiches on medium-low heat allows the cheese to melt thoroughly without burning the bread. Patience is key for that perfect gooeyness!
- Add Extra Flavor: Consider adding a sprinkle of garlic powder or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the pesto for an extra kick that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your grilled cheese with a light salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 545kcal
Carbohydrates: 33g
Protein: 24g
Fat: 40g
Saturated Fat: 14g
Cholesterol: 56mg
