Description
Pesto grilled cheese croutons need I say more?
Ingredients
1/4 cup prepared basil pesto
4 slices thinly sliced firm white bread, crusts removed
1 ball fresh mozzarella, sliced
2 to 3 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil plus additional for brushing on to bread
2 cups (1 pint) mixed cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper
10 fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced plus fresh sprigs for garnish
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 small fresh chile pepper, seeded, thinly sliced into slivers
2 tablespoons freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Spread pesto over two slices of bread; top with mozzarella in a single even layer.
- Cover cheese with another bread slice forming a sandwich.
- Brush both sides of sandwich with olive oil. Grill sandwiches until toasted golden brown on both sides; set aside on cutting surface.
- Meanwhile, in a bowl, combine all tomatoes; season with salt and pepper.
- Sprinkle the basil and chile pepper over the tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar; toss gently.
- Divide salad among 4 serving plates. Sprinkle with parmesan cheese.
- Slice grilled cheese sandwiches into bite-size pieces; arrange on salad plates.
- Garnish with fresh basil sprigs.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: salad
- Method: stove top
- Cuisine: Italian