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Savory Caprese Grilled Cheese Recipe with Easy Balsamic Reduction

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A quick and easy grilled cheese sandwich featuring fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, basil, and a homemade balsamic reduction for a perfect blend of comfort and fresh flavors.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 slices artisan bread (rustic sourdough or ciabatta recommended)
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves (whole)
  • Unsalted butter, softened (for spreading)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to season tomatoes)
  • 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar (optional)

Instructions

  1. Make the Balsamic Reduction: Pour 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar into a small saucepan. Add 1 tablespoon honey or brown sugar if desired. Bring to a gentle boil over medium heat, then reduce to low and simmer, stirring occasionally, until reduced by half and syrupy, about 8-10 minutes. Set aside to cool slightly.
  2. Prepare the Sandwich Ingredients: Slice 4 pieces of artisan bread about 1/2 inch thick. Slice 8 oz fresh mozzarella and 2 medium tomatoes into 1/4-inch slices. Wash and dry basil leaves. Season tomato slices with salt and pepper.
  3. Assemble the Sandwich: Spread softened butter on one side of each bread slice. On the unbuttered side of two slices, layer mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Drizzle a small amount of balsamic reduction over the basil. Top with the other bread slices, butter side out.
  4. Cook the Sandwich: Heat a non-stick skillet or cast iron pan over medium heat. Place sandwiches in the pan and cook 3-4 minutes per side, pressing lightly with a spatula, until bread is golden and cheese is melted. Lower heat and cover with a lid if bread browns too fast.
  5. Serve: Remove sandwiches and let rest for a minute. Drizzle additional balsamic reduction on top or serve on the side. Slice diagonally and enjoy warm.

Notes

Pat mozzarella dry if too wet to avoid soggy bread. Use medium to medium-low heat and cover pan briefly to melt cheese without burning bread. Homemade balsamic reduction tastes fresher than store-bought glaze.

Nutrition

Keywords: Caprese, grilled cheese, balsamic reduction, mozzarella, tomato, basil, sandwich, easy recipe, quick lunch, comfort food

Find it online: https://pokirecipes.com/savory-caprese-grilled-cheese-recipe-with-easy-balsamic-reduction/