Ingredients
Scale
- ½ tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves (113 g / 1.4 lb)
- A pinch of salt
- 4 slices of bread (sourdough, whole wheat, or ciabatta)
- 2 tablespoons butter, softened at room temperature
- 6-8 pieces sun-dried tomatoes (packed in oil), chopped
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese (or mozzarella)
- A pinch of dried oregano
- A pinch of crushed chili flakes
- Honey (optional, for serving)
- Cooked chicken or beef slices (optional, for added protein)
Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Spinach
- Heat ½ tablespoon olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat.
- Add 2 cups of fresh spinach and sauté for about 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the spinach wilts.
- Sprinkle a pinch of salt over the spinach, stir one last time, and transfer it to a plate.
- Wipe the pan with a paper towel to remove excess moisture before the next step.
Step 2: Assemble the Sandwich
- Take 4 slices of bread and spread butter on one side of each slice. This will be the side that touches the pan, ensuring a crispy golden crust.
- Place two slices of bread, butter side down, in the pan.
- Evenly distribute the chopped sun-dried tomatoes over the bread, pressing them lightly so they stick.
- Layer half of the crumbled feta cheese and shredded cheddar or mozzarella on top of the tomatoes.
- Spread the sautéed spinach over the cheese. If using, add cooked chicken or beef slices at this stage for extra protein.
- Sprinkle a pinch of dried oregano and crushed chili flakes over the fillings for enhanced flavor.
- Add the remaining feta and cheddar cheese, then place the second slice of bread on top, butter side up.
Step 3: Cook the Sandwich
- Heat the pan over medium heat to ensure even toasting without burning the bread.
- Cook the sandwiches for about 5 minutes on one side or until the bread is golden and crispy.
- Carefully flip the sandwiches using a spatula and cook the other side for another 5 minutes, until the cheese melts and the bread is perfectly toasted.
- Remove from heat and transfer to a plate.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
- Sprinkle extra thyme, oregano, or crushed chili flakes for added flavor.
- Optionally, drizzle a little honey over the sandwich for a hint of sweetness that balances the tangy and savory flavors.
- Serve immediately while the cheese is gooey and melty.
Notes
- Choosing the Right Bread: A sturdy bread like sourdough or ciabatta holds up well to the filling without becoming soggy. Avoid very soft or thin bread, as it may fall apart.
- Even Cooking: Keep the heat at medium. High heat will burn the bread before the cheese melts, while low heat may result in a soggy sandwich.
- Flipping the Sandwich: Use a wide spatula and flip carefully to keep the filling intact. If needed, press down lightly on the sandwich while cooking to help the ingredients meld together.
- Preventing Sogginess: If using frozen spinach, make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly before adding it to the sandwich. You can squeeze out excess water using a paper towel.
- Enhancing the Flavor: The combination of feta and sun-dried tomatoes brings a Mediterranean touch, but you can personalize it with other ingredients. Adding garlic powder, lemon zest, or a touch of balsamic glaze can further elevate the taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes