For generations, the Grilled Cheese sandwich has been the “go-to” lunchtime favorite for both kids and grown-ups, but perhaps it’s time for an upgrade? Here are two recipes that will transform this classic comfort food staple with a creative Mediterranean twist.

Both sandwiches are delicious paired with tomato soup or a delicious side salad.  Perfect for quick and satisfying weeknight dinner or lunch on the go. Enjoy!

Mediterranean Grilled Cheese

Prep Time: 5 min. Total Time: 15 min.Serves: 1

INGREDIENTS
2 slices of fresh bread, about 1⁄2 inch thick
1 tablespoon of butter, room temp
1 1⁄2 tablespoons store bought pesto (Sundried Tomato or Basil)
2 slices Mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons Sliced Golden Greek Peperoncini
1 tablespoon
Organic Sliced Greek Kalamata Olives
1⁄4 cup spinach, loosely packed

PREPARATION
Butter the outside slices of the bread. On the inside, spread one side of the bread with pesto. Next, add a slice of mozzarella. Top with the peppers, olives and spinach. Add another slice of mozzarella cheese on top of the spinach and close up the sandwich with the other slice of bread.
In a medium sized nonstick pan over medium heat, cook the grilled cheese on each side until lightly browned and cheese is melted.

Pizza Lover’s Grilled Cheese

Prep Time: 10 min.Total Time: 20 min.Serves: 2

INGREDIENTS
2 tablespoons melted unsalted butter
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
Pinch fine sea salt
2 tablespoons your favorite store bought pizza sauce
1/2 tablespoon chopped fresh basil leaves
4 slices rustic-style white bread
4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
2 tablespoons drained Sun-Ripened Dried Tomatoes
2 tablespoons chopped
Organic Sliced Greek Kalamata Olives
2 teaspoons grated parmesan cheese
4 slices fontina cheese

PREPARATION
Combine butter, oil and salt in a small bowl.
Combine pizza sauce and basil in a separate small bowl.
Heat 1 large non-stick skillet over medium heat. For each sandwich spoon an equal amount of sauce mixture over the center of each slice; spread evenly. Place mozzarella slices over sauce mixture; arrange sundried tomatoes and kalamata olives over each layer of mozzarella. Sprinkle each with parmesan; top with a slice of fontina and the top slice of bread. Spread butter mixture on outside of sandwich.
Cook 2 to 3 minutes; or until bottoms are golden, pressing each sandwich firmly with a spatula. Turn sandwiches and press each again with a spatula. Continue to cook until bottoms are golden and cheeses are melted. Also can be cooked in a panini press.

Visit our recipe page for more great sandwich ideas like the Grownup Spicy Grilled Cheese Sandwiches and the Dagwood Sandwich.  YUM!