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Homemade Gourmet Grilled Cheese photo

Gourmet Grilled Cheese

This Gourmet Grilled Cheese is a flavor sensation! Enjoy creamy Havarti, smoky peppers, and a vibrant cilantro sauce for an elevated sandwich experience.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Appetizer, Dinner, Lunch
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Cilantro Sauce:
  • 2 green Anaheim peppers or 1 poblano
  • 2 cloves garlic fresh
  • 2 tablespoons lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
  • 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
  • 3/4 cup cilantro fresh
  • 1/4 cup pepitas
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • Freshly ground black pepper to taste
For the Sandwiches:
  • 8 slices sourdough bread
  • A few handfuls spinach leaves for added nutrition
  • 2 to 3 cups grated Havarti cheese for creaminess

Equipment

  • Blender or food processor
  • Skillet or Griddle
  • Spatula
  • Knife

Method
 

Method for Gourmet Grilled Cheese
  1. 1. Prepare the Cilantro Sauce: Start by roasting the Anaheim or poblano peppers. Place them directly over a flame or under a broiler until charred. Once charred, place them in a bowl and cover with plastic wrap. Let them steam for about 10 minutes, then peel off the skins.
  2. 2. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender, combine the roasted peppers, garlic, lemon juice, cumin, coriander, sea salt, honey or maple syrup, cilantro, and pepitas. Blend until smooth. If the mixture is too thick, you can add a little water or extra-virgin olive oil to reach your desired consistency.
  3. 3. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread a generous amount of the cilantro sauce on one side of each slice of sourdough bread. Layer spinach leaves and a good amount of grated Havarti cheese on half of the slices. Top with the remaining slices of bread, sauce side down.
  4. 4. Grill the Sandwiches: In a skillet over medium heat, heat a drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Once hot, carefully add the assembled sandwiches. Cook for 3-4 minutes until golden brown. Carefully flip and grill the other side until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
  5. 5. Serve and Enjoy: Once grilled to perfection, remove the sandwiches from the skillet. Cut them in half and serve with extra cilantro sauce on the side for dipping. Enjoy your homemade Gourmet Grilled Cheese!

Notes

  • Make the cilantro sauce ahead of time; it stores well for up to 3 days.
  • Feel free to use different types of cheese for variety, such as Gruyère or cheddar.
  • Leftover grilled cheese sandwiches can be reheated in a skillet or toaster for best texture.