Roasted Tomato Pesto Grilled Cheese

Experience a gourmet twist on a comfort food classic with this Roasted Tomato Pesto Grilled Cheese. By combining slow-roasted, caramelized tomatoes with vibrant basil pesto and a dual-cheese blend of mozzarella and sharp cheddar, this sandwich transforms simple ingredients into a sophisticated meal perfect for a comforting lunch or light dinner.

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The secret to this sandwich lies in the preparation of the tomatoes. Roasting them with olive oil and oregano creates a concentrated flavor profile that cuts through the richness of the buttered sourdough and melted cheese, while the basil pesto provides a fresh, herbal finish.

Ingredients

• Roasted Tomatoes: 2 large ripe tomatoes (1/4-inch thick), 1 tbsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp sea salt, 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper, 1/4 tsp dried oregano
• Sandwich Assembly: 4 slices rustic sourdough or country bread, 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened), 2 tbsp basil pesto, 4 slices mozzarella cheese, 4 slices sharp cheddar cheese
• Optional: Handful of baby spinach or arugula leaves

Instructions

1. Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 300°F (150°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup.

2. Roast the Tomatoes

Arrange tomato slices on the baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt, pepper, and oregano. Roast for 50–60 minutes, flipping halfway through, until deeply caramelized. Let them cool slightly.

3. Butter the Bread

Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice. Place two slices, buttered side down, on a clean work surface.

4. Assemble the Sandwich

Spread 1 tbsp of pesto on the unbuttered side of the bottom slices. Top each with 2 slices of mozzarella, a layer of roasted tomatoes, 2 slices of cheddar, and greens if using. Cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.

5. Grill to Perfection

Heat a large skillet over medium-low heat. Cook the sandwiches for 4–5 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.

6. Serve

Slice the sandwiches in half and serve immediately while hot and gooey.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

Für das beste Ergebnis sollten die Tomaten langsam im Ofen geröstet werden, bis sie ihre Feuchtigkeit verlieren und ihr Aroma konzentrieren. Achten Sie beim Grillen in der Pfanne auf mittlere bis niedrige Hitze, damit der Käse schmilzt, bevor das Brot zu dunkel wird.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Sie können dieses Rezept leicht abwandeln, indem Sie sonnengetrocknetes Tomatenpesto verwenden oder eine Prise Chiliflocken für zusätzliche Schärfe hinzufügen. Für ein anderes Geschmacksprofil eignen sich auch geräucherter Gouda oder Gruyère. Verwenden Sie glutenfreies Brot, um das Rezept an Ihre Ernährungsweise anzupassen.

Serviervorschläge

Dieses Sandwich harmoniert wunderbar mit einem knackigen grünen Salat oder einer klassischen Tomatensuppe für ein vollständiges und gemütliches Mahl.

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Whether for a quick weekday lunch or a slow weekend treat, this Roasted Tomato Pesto Grilled Cheese offers a delightful symphony of flavors. It’s a simple way to bring a touch of gourmet cooking into your daily routine.

Questions & Answers

→ Can I prepare the roasted tomatoes ahead of time?

Yes, roast the tomatoes up to two days in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. You can also freeze them for up to one month. Simply bring them to room temperature before assembling your sandwich.

→ What's the best way to achieve even melting without burning the bread?

Use medium-low heat and cook each side for 4-5 minutes. Press gently with a spatula to ensure even contact with the skillet. If the bread browns too quickly, lower the heat further and extend cooking time slightly.

→ Can I use different types of cheese?

Absolutely. Smoked gouda, gruyère, fontina, or provolone all work wonderfully. Choose cheeses with good melting properties and complementary flavors. A combination of mild and sharp varieties creates the most interesting taste profile.

→ Is homemade pesto necessary or will store-bought work?

Store-bought pesto is convenient and works perfectly well. However, homemade pesto allows you to control salt levels and adjust garlic or basil intensity to your preference. For added flavor complexity, try sun-dried tomato pesto instead.

→ How do I make this gluten-free?

Simply substitute your favorite gluten-free bread for the sourdough. Look for a sturdy variety that won't fall apart during cooking. The rest of the ingredients remain the same, making this an easy adaptation for dietary preferences.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this sandwich?

A crisp green salad with vinaigrette balances the richness beautifully. Tomato soup is the classic pairing, creating a comforting meal. Roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or chips also complement it well.