Are you ready to take your grilled cheese game to the next level? Imagine sinking your teeth into a warm, gooey sandwich that combines the earthy bitterness of broccoli rabe, the sweetness of roasted red peppers, and the rich, melty goodness of provolone cheese—all nestled between perfectly toasted slices of bread. This Italian-American delight is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more. With just 20 minutes from prep to plate, you can whip up this gourmet treat in no time. Read on to discover how to create the ultimate Broccoli Rabe Roasted Red Pepper and Provolone Grilled Cheese!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 10 mins
Total Time: 20 mins
Cuisine: Italian-American
Serves: 2 sandwiches
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bread
- 1 cup broccoli rabe, blanched
- 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
- 4 slices provolone cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the broccoli rabe by trimming the tough stems and blanching in boiling salted water for 2-3 minutes. Immediately transfer to an ice bath to stop cooking, then drain and pat dry.
- Slice the roasted red peppers into thin strips if not already prepared, and set aside.
- Brush the outer sides of each bread slice with olive oil, ensuring even coverage for optimal grilling.
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat. Place the bread slices oil-side down on the cooking surface.
- Layer the provolone cheese on the bread slices, creating an even base for the sandwich.
- Arrange the blanched broccoli rabe evenly over the cheese on two of the bread slices.
- Add the sliced roasted red peppers on top of the broccoli rabe.
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavors.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, cheese-side down, and press gently with a spatula.
- Grill the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is completely melted.
- Remove from heat, let rest for 1-2 minutes, then slice diagonally and serve hot.
Tips
- Blanching the Broccoli Rabe: Make sure to blanch the broccoli rabe in salted water for just 2-3 minutes to maintain its vibrant color and nutritional value. The ice bath is crucial to stop the cooking process and keep it crisp.
- Choosing the Right Bread: Opt for a hearty bread like sourdough or ciabatta to hold up against the fillings and add extra flavor. A good bread will enhance the overall taste of your grilled cheese.
- Even Cheese Distribution: Layer the provolone cheese evenly on the bread to ensure every bite is cheesy and delicious. Don’t be shy with the cheese!
- Perfect Grilling Temperature: Keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the bread before the cheese melts. Patience is key to achieving that golden-brown crust.
- Pressing the Sandwich: Use a spatula to gently press down on the sandwich while grilling. This helps the cheese melt evenly and ensures the ingredients meld together beautifully.
- Seasoning: Don’t forget to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper! A little seasoning goes a long way in enhancing the flavors of the vegetables.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair your grilled cheese with a side of marinara sauce for dipping or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 380kcal
Carbohydrates: 30g
Protein: 18g
Fat: 22g
Saturated Fat: 9g
Cholesterol: 40mg
