Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach and Ricotta Grilled Cheese

Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach and Ricotta Grilled Cheese

This Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach and Ricotta Grilled Cheese combines the creamy richness of ricotta, the tanginess of sun-dried tomatoes, and the fresh taste of spinach, all melted together with gooey cheese between crispy, buttery bread. Here’s how to make this delicious grilled cheese sandwich:

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of hearty bread (such as sourdough or ciabatta)
• 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
• 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped (preferably packed in oil, drained)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, roughly chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped (optional)
• 2 tablespoons butter, softened
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

Step 1: Prepare the Filling

1. Mix Cheeses:
   • In a medium bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, shredded mozzarella, and grated Parmesan. Mix until well blended.
2. Add Tomatoes and Spinach:
   • Add the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, chopped spinach, and fresh basil (if using) to the cheese mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Mix until everything is evenly distributed.

Step 2: Assemble the Sandwiches

3. Butter the Bread:
   • Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
4. Add Filling:
   • Place two slices of bread, buttered side down, on a clean surface. Divide the ricotta mixture evenly between the two slices, spreading it out to cover the bread. Top with the remaining slices of bread, buttered side up.

Step 3: Cook the Sandwiches

5. Heat Skillet:
   • Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
6. Grill Sandwiches:
   • Place the sandwiches in the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, pressing down gently with a spatula, until the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese filling is melted and heated through.

Step 4: Serve

7. Slice and Serve:
   • Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them cool for a minute. Slice each sandwich in half and serve immediately.

Tips:

• Cheese Melting: To ensure the cheese melts evenly, you can cover the skillet with a lid for a minute or two while cooking the sandwiches.
• Additions: For extra flavor, you can add a layer of pesto or a few slices of fresh tomato inside the sandwich.
• Bread Choice: Choose a sturdy bread that can hold up to the filling and grilling process without becoming soggy.

Enjoy your Sun-Dried Tomato Spinach and Ricotta Grilled Cheese, a perfect combination of creamy, tangy, and crispy!