Monday, June 6, 2011

Meatless Monday--Goat Cheese and Strawberry Grilled Cheese

Readers, this is not your typical grilled cheese sandwich.  This grilled cheese isn't meant to be put alongside a cup of tomato soup.  With it's fresh basil and seasonal bright red strawberries, it's meant to celebrate summer.  Excellent, right?

My friend Josie brought this one to my attention.  She and the sweet baby boy growing inside of her have been craving anything and everything that combines goat cheese and fruit.  Thank goodness for that because this sandwich was really delicious!  Paired with oven-baked sweet potato chips, it made for a perfect summertime lunch.

strawberry goat cheese grilled cheese

Goat Cheese and Strawberry Grilled Cheese
seen on Pink Parsley, originally from Southern Living, March 2011

Ingredients:
4 oz. goat cheese, softened
butter
6 slices bread
5 tsp. red pepper jelly
3/4-1 cup sliced fresh strawberries
6 large basil leaves, sliced thin
salt and pepper to taste

Directions:
1.  Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.

2.  Spread one side of each slice of bread lightly with butter.  Flip the bread over, spread half the slices with pepper jelly, and top with half the goat cheese.  

3.  Place the strawberry slices in a single layer on top of the goat cheese, then sprinke with basil, salt, and pepper.  Spread goat cheese on the remaining slices of bread.  Assemble the sandwiches.

4.  Cook 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden-brown.  Serve.

three years ago: anise biscotti