Time: 20 minutes

Serves: 2

  • 4 slices white sandwich bread
  • 4 slices smoked mozzarella
  • 1 garlic clove
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • Freshly ground black pepperBASIL PESTO:
  • 2 cups fresh basil
  • 1 cup fresh Italian parsley
  • 1/2 cup Parmigiano Reggiano
  • 1/2 cup pine nuts, toasted
  • 3 garlic cloves, roughly chopped
  • 1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil

GRILLED CHEESE (SMOKED MOZZARELLA AND BASIL PESTO)

Recipe courtesy Tyler Florence

grilled_cheese

To make pesto combine pesto ingredients in a food processor and pulse until well combined but still has a rough texture.

Assemble sandwich by smearing insides of bread slices with pesto.  Arrange a layer of mozzarella and season with a few turns of fresh pepper.  Layer the mozzarella slices over the top and then place the bread over to make the sandwich.  Set a large sauté pan over medium heat and add butter.  Add sandwich and cook 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown and crispy.  Remove from pan and rub toasted bread with garlic.

Edited: July 31st, 2009