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#### **Step 1: Prep the Ingredients**
Begin by gathering all your ingredients and preparing them for assembly:
– Slice the tomato thinly.
– Chop the Kalamata olives and fresh basil leaves.
– Crumble the feta cheese, or use pre-crumbled feta.
– Slice your bread to your preferred thickness, ensuring that it will hold up to the hearty filling without falling apart.
1. Spread **butter or olive oil** evenly on one side of each slice of bread.
2. On the other side, layer the sandwich with the **feta cheese**, followed by a generous handful of **shredded mozzarella**. Add the **chopped Kalamata olives**, **tomato slices**, and a few pieces of **fresh basil**.
3. For an extra burst of Mediterranean flavor, you can add some **sun-dried tomatoes** or **roasted red peppers**.
4. Sprinkle the sandwich filling with a pinch of **salt and pepper** to enhance the flavors.
#### **Step 3: Grill the Sandwich**
Now it’s time to cook the sandwich to crispy perfection:
#### **Step 4: Serve and Enjoy**
Once your Mediterranean Grilled Cheese Sandwich is golden and crispy, remove it from the skillet and let it cool for just a minute. Cut it in half, and serve while it’s still warm and the cheese is perfectly melted.
### **Serving Suggestions**
– **Salads**: A fresh Greek salad or a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette pairs perfectly with this savory sandwich.
– **Soup**: Serve it alongside a bowl of tomato basil soup or even a lentil soup for a cozy, Mediterranean-inspired meal.
– **Pickles**: A few crunchy pickles on the side, like dill or pickled cucumbers, offer a tangy contrast to the creamy cheese and olives.
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– **Bread Choice**: Choose a hearty, sturdy bread that will hold up to the fillings, such as sourdough, focaccia, or even whole-grain bread. Avoid thin or soft bread, as it may not support the fillings well.
– **Cheese**: If you prefer a melty, stretchy cheese, swap out mozzarella for provolone or even fontina. Feta provides the tangy flavor, but pairing it with another melty cheese is key to getting that perfect grilled cheese texture.
– **Customize the Toppings**: Feel free to get creative with the fillings. Add roasted vegetables, olives, or fresh greens like spinach for more flavor. A drizzle of balsamic glaze could also add a delightful sweetness to balance out the savory elements.
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The **Mediterranean Grilled Cheese Sandwich** is a delicious and inventive twist on the traditional grilled cheese, offering fresh, bold Mediterranean flavors in every bite. With the creamy, tangy feta, savory olives, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil, this sandwich is a flavor explosion that will transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean coast. Whether you’re serving it for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, it’s sure to be a hit with anyone who loves bold, satisfying flavors.