Description
This Blackberry Balsamic & Brie Grilled Cheese is a gourmet twist on the classic grilled sandwich, combining creamy brie, sweet blackberry preserves, tangy balsamic glaze, and fresh spinach for a deliciously balanced and sophisticated flavor. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner, it offers a delightful blend of savory and fruity notes grilled to golden perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
Sandwich Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter, softened
- 2 slices of hearty artisan bread
- 3 tablespoons blackberry preserves
- 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze
- 3 ounces brie cheese, sliced
- A handful of fresh spinach leaves
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Preheat a griddle or non-stick skillet over medium heat to prepare for grilling your sandwich.
- Butter Bread: Spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice of bread to ensure a crispy, golden crust when grilled.
- Add Blackberry Preserves: On the unbuttered side of one slice, spread the blackberry preserves evenly to add sweetness and flavor.
- Drizzle Balsamic Glaze: On the other slice of bread, drizzle the balsamic glaze to introduce a tangy contrast.
- Layer Brie Cheese: Lay slices of brie cheese over the blackberry preserves, allowing the creamy cheese to melt beautifully during cooking.
- Add Spinach: Place fresh spinach leaves gently on top of the brie cheese for a fresh and slightly earthy flavor.
- Assemble Sandwich: Sandwich the two slices together with the buttered sides facing outward, ready for grilling.
- Add Olive Oil: Add olive oil to the preheated skillet to prevent sticking and enhance browning.
- Grill First Side: Carefully place the sandwich on the skillet and grill for 3-4 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy.
- Flip and Grill Other Side: Flip the sandwich and grill the other side for another 3-4 minutes, until the brie is melted and the bread is golden on both sides.
- Remove and Rest: Once the cheese is melted and the sandwich is crispy, remove from heat and let it rest briefly.
- Serve: Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately while warm and gooey.
Notes
- You can substitute fresh blackberries for the preserves for a more natural fruit texture.
- If balsamic glaze is unavailable, reduce balsamic vinegar with a little sugar until thickened to create a homemade glaze.
- Use a heavy pan or press with another pan over the sandwich for extra crispiness.
- Adjust the amount of brie based on your preference for cheesiness.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
