Roasted Veggie Caprese Grilled Cheese (Printable)

Crispy bread layered with roasted vegetables, mozzarella, and fresh basil for a satisfying Italian-inspired sandwich.

# What You'll Need:

→ Roasted Vegetables

01 - 1 medium zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch rounds
02 - 1 red bell pepper, seeded and cut into strips
03 - 1 yellow bell pepper, seeded and cut into strips
04 - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
05 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Sandwich Components

06 - 8 slices rustic sourdough or Italian bread
07 - 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
08 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
09 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, packed
10 - 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
11 - Balsamic glaze for drizzling (optional)

# How To Make It:

01 - Preheat oven to 425°F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
02 - Arrange zucchini and pepper strips on prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with olive oil, season with salt and pepper, and toss to coat evenly.
03 - Roast for 18-20 minutes, turning once halfway through, until vegetables are tender and lightly caramelized. Remove and set aside.
04 - Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice.
05 - Layer roasted vegetables, mozzarella slices, tomato, and basil on the unbuttered side of 4 bread slices. Season lightly with salt and pepper. Drizzle with balsamic glaze if desired. Top with remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward.
06 - Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Cook sandwiches for 3-5 minutes per side, pressing gently, until bread is golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
07 - Slice sandwiches diagonally and serve immediately while warm.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -
  • The roasted vegetables bring out sweetness you never get from raw tomatoes alone
  • That moment when the cheese hits the hot vegetables and everything melts together is worth the effort
02 -
  • Dry your tomato slices with paper towels or the bottom bread will get soggy before it even hits the pan
  • Roast the vegetables ahead of time and keep them in the fridge, this sandwich actually comes together faster on busy weeknights
03 -
  • Grate some garlic into the butter before spreading it on the bread, subtle but game changing
  • Let the vegetables cool slightly before assembling, otherwise the cheese melts too fast and makes a mess
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