Best Cheeses To Compliment A Pesto Sandwich

Pesto and cheese is an underrated combination, but it works incredibly well, especially when made into a grilled sandwich. The key to a good pesto grilled cheese sandwich is to ensure the pesto is not too oily, as this can make the sandwich greasy. The best cheese to pair with pesto is mozzarella, as its subtle flavour allows the pesto to shine. However, other cheeses such as provolone, American cheese, and burrata also work well.

Mozzarella, provolone and American cheese

Mozzarella, Provolone, and American Cheese with Pesto

Mozzarella, provolone, and American cheese are all excellent choices to pair with pesto in a sandwich. Here are some ideas for creating delicious pesto sandwiches with these cheeses:

Mozzarella and Pesto Sandwich

For a classic combination, try a mozzarella and pesto sandwich. Fresh mozzarella pairs well with pesto, especially when paired with juicy tomatoes. To make this sandwich, spread a layer of pesto on the inside of your chosen bread—sourdough, ciabatta, focaccia, or bakery white bread work well. Add fresh mozzarella slices and tomato slices, and sprinkle the tomatoes with salt. You can also add some sliced turkey or ham for protein. Butter the outside of the bread and grill the sandwich until the cheese is melted and the bread is golden.

Provolone and Pesto Sandwich

Provolone is another cheese that goes well with pesto. To make a provolone and pesto sandwich, spread a mixture of mayonnaise and pesto on slices of sourdough bread. Layer with thinly sliced deli ham, basil leaves, pickled sweet cherry peppers, and plum tomato slices. Add shredded provolone cheese and top with another slice of bread. Butter the outside of the sandwich and grill until golden brown and the cheese is melted.

American Cheese and Pesto Sandwich

For a slightly different take on the pesto grilled cheese, try using American cheese. Spread butter on one side of a slice of Italian bread and place it buttered-side down in a skillet. Spread pesto on the unbuttered side, then stack a slice of provolone cheese, a tomato slice, and a slice of American cheese on top. Spread pesto on another slice of bread and place it pesto-side down onto the sandwich. Butter the top slice of bread and grill the sandwich until both sides are golden brown and the cheese has melted.

Feel free to experiment with different types of bread, cheeses, and additional ingredients to create your own unique pesto sandwich combinations!

Homemade vs store-bought pesto

Pesto is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from pasta to sandwiches. But is it worth making your own pesto at home, or should you just buy it pre-made from the store? In this comparison, we will look at the pros and cons of both options and help you decide which is the best choice for you.

Taste and Quality

Homemade pesto has a fresher, earthier, and nuttier taste compared to store-bought pesto. It also has a stronger garlic kick and basil flavour. This is because you can customise the ingredients and their ratios when making pesto at home. For example, using walnuts can give a more earthy flavour, while almonds add a spicy kick. However, it is important to note that making pesto in a blender or food processor can negatively impact the taste, and using extra virgin olive oil can change the flavour. Using a mortar and pestle or a slow masticating juicer is recommended for the best flavour and texture.

On the other hand, store-bought pesto is more convenient and can still be tasty, especially if you choose a reputable brand. The difference in taste between a cheap brand and a quality brand of store-bought pesto is significant. Additionally, some people prefer the cheesier and nuttier flavour of store-bought pesto.

Cost

When it comes to cost, buying pesto in bulk from stores like Costco is the most affordable option. A 22-ounce package of Kirkland Signature Pesto costs $7.99 plus tax and is delicious. Buying a smaller amount of pesto from a grocery store, such as 6-ounces of pesto from Trader Joe's for $2.99, is the second most affordable option. However, making classic homemade pesto doesn't cost much more and allows for customisation. The cost of ingredients for 12-ounces of homemade pesto was $7.24 at Trader Joe's, excluding salt and pepper.

Time Commitment

Making homemade pesto takes time, especially if you are cleaning and preparing fresh ingredients like basil. It can take up to 40 minutes to make, with an additional 15 minutes needed for cleaning sandy basil. In comparison, store-bought pesto is quick and convenient, requiring no preparation time.

Storage and Freshness

Freshness is crucial for pesto, and it cannot be frozen, canned, or kept for more than two to three days in the refrigerator. Store-bought pesto has a slightly longer shelf life, lasting three days after opening. However, homemade pesto can be frozen for longer-term storage, although it may lose some freshness and flavour.

Both homemade and store-bought pesto have their advantages and disadvantages. If you are short on time or need a large quantity of pesto, store-bought is a convenient and affordable option. However, if you want a fresher, more customised flavour and don't mind the extra time and cost, homemade pesto is the way to go. Ultimately, it may come down to personal preference and how particular you are about your pesto!

How to layer the sandwich

Ingredients

First, gather your ingredients. For a pesto grilled cheese sandwich, you will need:

• Bread (sliced Italian, sourdough, or crusty sourdough)
• Butter (preferably salted)
• Pesto (basil pesto, either homemade or store-bought)
• Cheese (provolone, American, mozzarella, or a mix)
• Optional extras: tomato, spinach, avocado, bacon, basil, sun-dried tomatoes, etc.

Step 1: Prepare the Bread

Take two slices of bread and spread butter on one side of each slice. Place one slice buttered-side down into a non-stick skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Layer the Filling

On the unbuttered side of the bread in the skillet, start layering your fillings. Spread pesto over the bread, then layer your chosen cheese and any optional extras. If you are adding tomato, it is recommended to place the tomato slices directly onto the cheese to prevent the bread from becoming soggy.

Step 3: Complete the Sandwich

Spread pesto on the unbuttered side of the second slice of bread, and place it pesto-side down onto the sandwich in the pan. Butter the top slice of bread.

Step 4: Grill the Sandwich

Gently fry the sandwich, flipping once, until both sides are golden brown and the cheese has melted. This should take around 5 minutes per side.

Tips:

• If your pesto is oily, gently pass it through a sieve to remove excess oil before spreading it on the bread.
• If using fresh mozzarella, pat it dry before adding it to the sandwich to prevent moisture from making the sandwich soggy.
• For extra melted cheese, cover the pan with a lid while the sandwich is grilling.
• For a more crispy exterior, use olive oil instead of butter when frying the sandwich.
• Pesto grilled cheese sandwiches go well with a variety of sides, such as sweet potato wedges, tomato soup, or potato chips.

Bread options

When making a pesto and cheese sandwich, the bread you use is just as important as the filling. Here are some bread options to consider:

Sourdough

Sourdough bread is a popular choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, including pesto and cheese sandwiches. Its slightly tangy flavour and chewy texture pair well with the creaminess of the cheese and the freshness of the pesto. Sourdough also toasts well, giving your sandwich a nice golden crust.

Italian Bread

Italian bread, such as a crusty ciabatta, can add a nice texture contrast to the sandwich. It has a thick crust and a soft interior, which can soak up the pesto sauce without becoming too soggy.

Focaccia

Focaccia is another Italian bread option that can work well with pesto and cheese. It has a flat shape, similar to a thick pizza base, and is often seasoned with olive oil and herbs. This bread can add a unique flavour profile to your sandwich.

Thick-cut White Bread

If you're looking for a more traditional grilled cheese experience, thick-cut white bread can be a good option. It has a neutral flavour that lets the pesto and cheese shine, and its soft texture makes it easy to bite into.

When choosing bread for your pesto and cheese sandwich, consider the texture and flavour profile you want to achieve. Sourdough and Italian bread offer a chewier texture, while thick-cut white bread provides a softer bite. Experiment with different options to find your preferred combination.

What to serve with the sandwich

A pesto grilled cheese sandwich is a tasty treat, and there are several sides you can serve with it to elevate the experience.

Firstly, a hot cup of tomato bisque or tomato soup is a classic pairing. The tomato and pesto flavours complement each other beautifully, and the soup can also be used for dipping your sandwich into—the ultimate comfort food!

If you're looking for something crispier, sweet potato wedges are a great option. The sweetness of the wedges balances out the saltiness of the sandwich, creating a delightful contrast.

For a lighter option, a fresh side salad or some fruit can be a refreshing choice, especially if your sandwich is particularly cheesy.

Finally, for a simple, savoury side, a handful of potato chips or crisps can be the perfect crunchy addition to your meal.

So, there you have it! Whether you're looking for something warm and comforting, or light and refreshing, there are plenty of options to serve alongside a pesto grilled cheese sandwich.

Frequently asked questions