Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Spinach

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If you’ve ever savored the crispy, melty delight of a grilled cheese sandwich, you know how comforting and satisfying it can be. But what if you could elevate that experience with Mediterranean flavors, turning a simple sandwich into a gourmet masterpiece? Enter the Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Spinach, a vibrant, tangy, and flavorful twist on the classic comfort food. Combining creamy feta, sharp cheddar, savory sun-dried tomatoes, and sautéed spinach between slices of golden, buttery bread, this sandwich is an indulgence that takes less than 20 minutes to prepare but leaves a lasting impression. Whether you serve it on its own or alongside a fresh salad or a bowl of tomato soup, this sandwich is bound to become a new favorite.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This spinach and feta grilled cheese sandwich is not only quick and easy to make but also offers a wonderful combination of flavors and textures. The contrast of salty feta with the rich, melty cheddar, the slight chewiness of the sun-dried tomatoes, and the freshness of sautéed spinach create a mouthwatering harmony in every bite. And to take it up a notch, a sprinkle of oregano, a dash of chili flakes, and a touch of honey add layers of flavor you won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re making a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a meal for a special occasion, this sandwich fits the bill. Plus, it’s highly customizable, allowing you to adapt it to your taste and dietary preferences. Let’s dive into the details, so you can get this delicious sandwich on your plate!

Ingredients & Substitutions

Before we get into the step-by-step preparation, let’s explore the key ingredients that make this Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich a star. Each component plays an important role in the flavor and texture, but feel free to tweak it to suit your preferences.

Core Ingredients:

• Olive Oil: Used to sauté the spinach, olive oil brings a subtle richness. You can substitute with avocado oil or grapeseed oil if preferred.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a mild, earthy flavor that balances the richness of the cheese. You can swap with baby spinach or even use frozen spinach (just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly).
• Sun-Dried Tomatoes: Their tangy, slightly sweet flavor contrasts beautifully with the salty feta. If you don’t have sun-dried tomatoes, you can use fresh tomatoes (pat them dry with paper towels) or roasted red peppers for a different flavor profile.
• Greek Feta Cheese: Known for its salty, tangy flavor, feta adds a distinctive Mediterranean touch. A block of feta works best, but crumbled feta will do just fine. Alternatively, you can experiment with other brined cheeses like Bulgarian sirene or even goat cheese.
• Cheddar Cheese: For that gooey, melty texture we all love, cheddar is a must. You can substitute with mozzarella, Gouda, Havarti, or Monterey Jack for a milder flavor.
• Bread: Sourdough bread, with its tangy taste and chewy texture, makes the perfect vessel for this sandwich. Other options include ciabatta, whole grain, or even rye. Pita bread could work too, though it won’t be quite as crispy.
• Spices: Oregano and chili flakes give this sandwich a Mediterranean flair, but feel free to use thyme, basil, or za’atar. If you prefer a spicier kick, cayenne pepper can replace the chili flakes.
• Butter: Essential for creating that golden, crispy exterior. You can use extra virgin olive oil instead if you want a healthier option.

Optional Add-Ins:

• Honey: A light drizzle of honey over the finished sandwich provides a touch of sweetness, balancing the savory and tangy flavors.
• Garlic or Onions: Add minced garlic or diced onions to the pan when sautéing the spinach for an extra layer of flavor.
• Olives: Chopped Kalamata or green olives add a briny kick that complements the feta.
• Pesto: Spread a layer of pesto on the bread slices for a richer, herbaceous flavor.
• Egg: For a protein boost, include a fried or scrambled egg in the sandwich. This turns it into a heartier meal.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Here’s how to make this Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Spinach:

1. Prepare the Spinach:

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add fresh spinach and sauté for about 5-6 minutes, or until it’s wilted. Once done, season with a pinch of salt (and pepper if desired), and transfer the spinach to a plate. Wipe the pan clean with a paper towel to get it ready for the sandwich assembly.

2. Prep the Bread:

Spread a generous layer of butter on one side of each bread slice. The buttered side will be in contact with the pan, ensuring a crispy, golden exterior.

3. Assemble the Sandwich:

Place two slices of bread, butter side down, in the pan. On each slice, scatter some chopped sun-dried tomatoes, gently pressing them into the bread to keep them in place. Next, add a layer of crumbled feta, followed by shredded cheddar, and then the sautéed spinach. Top with the remaining cheese and a sprinkle of oregano and chili flakes. Finish by placing the other slices of bread on top, butter side up.

4. Grill the Sandwich:

Heat the pan over medium heat. Cook the sandwich for about 5 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden and crispy. Carefully flip the sandwich and cook for an additional 5 minutes, ensuring the cheese is fully melted and the bread is toasted to perfection.

5. Serve:

Once cooked, transfer the sandwiches to a cutting board. For an extra touch, sprinkle with more oregano or thyme, a few chili flakes, and drizzle lightly with honey if desired. Cut the sandwich in half and serve immediately.

Tips for the Best Feta Grilled Cheese

• Use sturdy bread: Bread like sourdough or ciabatta can hold the ingredients without becoming soggy.
• Manage moisture: If using frozen spinach, be sure to thaw and drain it well to avoid sogginess. If you use fresh tomatoes, pat them dry before adding them to the sandwich.
• Low and slow: Cook your sandwich over medium heat to allow the cheese to melt without burning the bread. Patience is key!
• Leftovers: Have leftover ingredients? Store them in the refrigerator for future sandwiches, or toss them into a pasta dish or pizza.

Can You Make It in the Oven?

Yes! If you prefer to bake your grilled cheese sandwich, you can do so with ease. Preheat your oven to 390°F (200°C). Pre-toast your bread slices in a skillet, then assemble the sandwich as instructed. Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment paper and bake for about 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is golden.

Serving Suggestions

This feta grilled cheese sandwich pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas to complete your meal:

• Tomato Soup: A warm bowl of tomato soup (try roasted tomato or Turkish tomato soup) is the perfect companion to this grilled cheese.
• Fresh Salad: A crisp, fresh salad adds a refreshing contrast. Try pairing it with a fig and goat cheese salad or a simple mixed greens salad.
• Pickles: The tangy acidity of pickles balances the richness of the sandwich. Homemade pickled cabbage or beet pickles are a great choice.
• Coleslaw: For a crunchy contrast, serve with homemade yogurt coleslaw made from shredded cabbage and carrots in a tangy dressing.

Variations to Try

• Greek-Inspired: Add Kalamata olives, red onions, and a drizzle of tzatziki for a Greek-inspired twist.
• Italian Flair: Swap the sun-dried tomatoes for roasted red peppers and add a few slices of mozzarella for an Italian version.
• Spicy Kick: Love a little heat? Add extra chili flakes or even some chopped jalapeños to spice things up.

Final Thoughts

The Feta Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Spinach offers an irresistible combination of rich flavors, textures, and aromas that’s sure to please any food lover. With creamy feta, gooey cheddar, savory spinach, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes tucked between golden slices of sourdough, this sandwich is a delightful fusion of comfort food and Mediterranean flair. Whether you’re making it for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this recipe is simple, delicious, and endlessly customizable.

So, next time you’re craving a grilled cheese with a twist, give this feta and spinach version a try. You’ll love the burst of flavors in every bite—and who knows? It might just become your new go-to sandwich!