Ever since grilled-cheese sandwiches made their (very recent) entrance onto my family’s menu, I knew this classic comfort food was due for a gourmet makeover.  Here are my two takes on this simply delicious sandwich:

Cheese and Jalapeno Bread, sliced
2 tbsp butter

Option 1:
2 slices Aged Cheddar Cheese
4 slices Bacon (cooked)
1 avocado, sliced

Option 2:
2 slices Smoked Mozarella Cheese
100 g (3oz) turkey breast, thinly sliced
1 pear (or Granny Smith apple), thinly sliced
4 leaves fresh basil, stems trimmed off Smear one side of 2 bread slices with butter. Layer your ingredients on one unbuttered face, then top with the second slice of bread.  Both buttery sides should face outward.

Option #1: Bacon, Cheddar, & Avocado
Option #2: Turkey, Pear, Mozzarella, & Basil

Heat a non-stick pan on high. Place the sandwich (buttered side down) onto the pan and turn the heat down to allow the cheese to melt without the bread burning. Flip and cook on the other side, 3-4 minutes each side.


Slice in half and serve immediately.

Serves 2-4.

by Diana Petrina
Photography by Sabrina Tenace