Grilled Cheese Margherita Recipes

MARGHERITA GRILLED CHEESE

Steps:

• Cut the butter into 3 equal parts. Spread 1 part of the butter all over both sides of both pieces of bread. Evenly sprinkle garlic powder and Italian seasoning on both sides of the bread. Melt 2nd part of the butter in a large and heavy nonstick skillet over medium heat. Once the butter is melted, add both slices of seasoned bread and cook, swirling around the pan occasionally, for about 2 minutes (bottom should be very lightly golden brown).
• Transfer the bread slices onto a plate with the toasted side facing towards you. Add 3 cheese slices to each piece of bread (the cheese slices should barely overlap) and then add freshly sliced tomatoes, a sprinkle of salt + pepper, and pesto on one slice of bread. Sandwich the two pieces of bread and fillings together.
• Melt the 3rd piece of butter and reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the sandwich and cook, swirling around the pan occasionally until the sandwich is an even golden brown and the cheese is all melty (4-5 minutes).
• Remove from heat and lift the top piece of bread enough to add fresh basil to the sandwich and if desired, a small drizzle of balsamic reduction (see notes).
• Serve the grilled cheese immediately with a side of the warmed soup.

GRILLED CHEESE MARGHERITA

Steps:

• Fill bread slices with next 4 ingredients.
• Spread outside of sandwich with butter.
• Cook in skillet on medium heat 3 min. on each side or until golden brown on both sides.

GRILLED CHICKEN MARGHERITA

Steps:

• Gently pound chicken breasts into even thickness using the smooth side of a meat mallet, about 1/2 inch thick. Place chicken into a resealable plastic bag.
• Whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, and salt in a small bowl. Pour over chicken, coat evenly, and marinate for 4 to 8 hours.
• Combine cherry tomatoes, basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
• Preheat an outdoor grill for medium heat; lightly oil the grate.
• Remove chicken from marinade and grill with the lid closed for 4 minutes. Flip chicken and grill an additional 3 to 4 minutes. Top each breast with a slice of mozzarella cheese and 1 tablespoon of pesto, then top with cherry tomatoes. Close lid on grill and continue grilling until cheese is melted and chicken is no longer pink inside, about 3 more minutes. An instant-read thermometer inserted into the center should read at least 165 degrees F (74 degrees C). Using a spatula, carefully remove chicken to a serving platter.