Spring Pea Pesto Grilled Cheese (Print View)

Vibrant grilled cheese with fresh pea and basil pesto, melty mozzarella, and golden sourdough. A spring-inspired vegetarian favorite.

# What You'll Need:

→ Spring Pea Pesto

01 - 1 cup fresh or thawed frozen peas
02 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
03 - 1 small garlic clove
04 - 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
05 - 2 tablespoons toasted pine nuts
06 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
07 - 1/2 teaspoon lemon zest
08 - 1 tablespoon lemon juice
09 - 1/4 teaspoon salt
10 - Freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Sandwich Assembly

11 - 4 slices sourdough bread
12 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
13 - 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
14 - 1/4 cup spring pea pesto
15 - Baby arugula or spinach leaves, optional

# How to Prepare:

01 - Combine peas, basil, garlic, Parmesan, pine nuts, olive oil, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Pulse until mostly smooth with slight texture remaining. Adjust seasoning as needed.
02 - Spread softened butter thinly on one side of each bread slice. Place two slices butter-side down on work surface. Spread 2 tablespoons pesto on each slice, then top evenly with mozzarella cheese and optional greens. Cover with remaining bread slices, butter-side up.
03 - Heat skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place assembled sandwiches in pan and cook 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese melts completely.
04 - Cut sandwiches in half diagonally and serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The pea pesto adds a fresh, vibrant twist that cuts through the rich cheese
  • It comes together in under 30 minutes but tastes like something from a fancy cafe
  • That pop of green makes even the gloomiest day feel a little more cheerful
02 -
  • Do not over-process the pesto or it will become gummy and lose its fresh texture
  • Medium heat is crucial. High heat burns the bread before the cheese melts.
  • Letting the assembled sandwiches sit for 5 minutes before grilling helps the flavors meld together.
03 -
  • Room temperature ingredients melt more evenly and prevent that dreaded situation where the bread burns before the cheese melts
  • A cast iron skillet distributes heat more evenly than stainless steel for better browning
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