Roasted Veggie Caprese Grilled Cheese

Experience a vibrant twist on a Mediterranean favorite with this Roasted Veggie Caprese Grilled Cheese. This sandwich takes the classic combination of fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil and elevates it with the addition of tender, caramelized zucchini and bell peppers. It is the ultimate vegetarian comfort food, offering a symphony of textures from the golden, crispy sourdough to the gooey, melted cheese core.

Merken

The beauty of this recipe lies in the preparation. By roasting the zucchini and peppers at a high temperature, you unlock their natural sugars and create a savory base that pairs perfectly with the acidity of fresh tomatoes. Whether you are looking for a quick lunch or a hearty dinner, this sandwich delivers an Italian-American flair that is sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
• 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and sliced into strips
• 8 slices rustic sourdough or Italian bread
• 8 oz (225 g) fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
• 1/2 cup (packed) fresh basil leaves
• 4 tbsp (60 g) unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• Balsamic glaze, for drizzling (optional)

Instructions

Step 1

Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.

Step 2

Arrange zucchini and pepper slices on the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Toss to coat.

Step 3

Roast vegetables for 18–20 minutes, turning once, until tender and lightly caramelized. Remove from oven and set aside.

Step 4

Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each bread slice.

Step 5

Assemble sandwiches: On the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices, layer roasted vegetables, mozzarella slices, tomato, and basil. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if using. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side out.

Step 6

Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.

Step 7

Cook sandwiches 3–5 minutes per side, pressing gently and turning as needed, until bread is golden and cheese is melted.

Step 8

Slice and serve warm.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best results, ensure your skillet is preheated properly. Using a spatula to gently press down on the sandwiches while they cook helps the cheese melt more evenly and ensures the bread gets that perfect, even golden-brown crust. Using fresh, high-quality mozzarella will provide the best flavor and stretch.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This recipe is highly customizable. Try adding grilled eggplant or roasted mushrooms for extra depth and a meatier texture. For those with dietary restrictions, this sandwich works wonderfully with gluten-free bread or whole wheat slices for added fiber.

Serviervorschläge

Serve these warm sandwiches with a simple green salad dressed in vinaigrette or a classic bowl of tomato soup for a comforting meal. For a complete dining experience, pair it with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or sparkling water with a twist of lemon.

Merken

With its golden crust and flavorful roasted vegetable filling, this Roasted Veggie Caprese Grilled Cheese is a delightful way to enjoy a meatless meal. The addition of balsamic glaze provides a sweet and tangy finish that ties all the Italian-inspired flavors together. Enjoy it while it's hot and the cheese is at its peak meltiness!

Antworten auf häufige Fragen

→ Kann ich das Gemüse vorausplanen?

Ja, das Gemüse kann bis zu 2 Tage im Voraus geröstet und im Kühlschrank aufbewahrt werden. Vor dem Zusammenstellen leicht erwärmen oder Raumtemperatur annehmen lassen.

→ Welche Brotsorten funktionieren am besten?

Rustikales Sauerteigbrot oder italienisches Brot eignen sich hervorragend. Vollkornbrot oder glutenfreies Brot sind ebenfalls gute Alternativen mit verändertem Geschmacksprofil.

→ Wie halte ich das Käse geschmolzen?

Den Pfannenwärmewert auf Mittel halten und sanft drücken während des Gareins. Die Temperatur sollte niedrig genug sein, um das Brot zu bräunen, aber hoch genug, um den Käse zu schmelzen.

→ Kann ich zusätzliche Gemüsesorten hinzufügen?

Absolut. Gegrillte Auberginen oder Röstpilze verleihen zusätzliche Tiefe. Vorgaren oder rösten Sie hartes Gemüse, um gleichmäßiges Garen zu gewährleisten.

→ Welche Getränke passen dazu?

Ein knackiger Sauvignon Blanc oder Sprudelwasser mit Zitrone ergänzen die frischen Flavors wunderbar. Eine leichte tomatenbasierte Suppe macht ein vollständiges Essen.