A savory upgrade to the classic grilled cheese sandwich, this Mediterranean Spinach Grilled Cheese features a flavorful filling of sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, feta, and olives—perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Mediterranean Grilled Cheese
This grilled cheese recipe is anything but ordinary. It’s packed with Mediterranean ingredients that add bold flavor and richness to every bite.
- Quick and easy (ready in 15 minutes)
- Vegetarian-friendly
- Great source of protein and fiber
- Ideal for lunch, dinner, or even brunch
Ingredients
- 4 slices sourdough or rustic bread
- 2 tablespoons olive oil or softened butter
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, julienned
- ¼ cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
- ½ cup crumbled feta cheese
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or provolone
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Sauté the Spinach Mixture
Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds). Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and olives. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Remove from heat.
2. Assemble the Sandwich
Spread the spinach mixture over two slices of bread. Add crumbled feta and shredded mozzarella. Top with the remaining bread slices.
3. Grill the Sandwiches
Brush the outsides of the sandwiches with olive oil or softened butter. Cook on a skillet or panini press over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is fully melted.
Tips and Variations
- Add roasted red peppers for extra sweetness
- Use ciabatta, whole wheat, or gluten-free bread as desired
- Substitute goat cheese for feta for a creamier texture
- Serve with tomato soup or a fresh green salad
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 390
- Protein: 13g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Sugar: 2g
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw it completely, then squeeze out excess moisture before using it in the sauté.
What’s the best bread for grilled cheese?
Sourdough, ciabatta, or rustic Italian bread offers the perfect crisp and chew.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prep the spinach mixture in advance, but it’s best to grill the sandwich fresh for optimal crispiness.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Not recommended. The sandwich may lose its crisp texture upon reheating.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes. Thaw it completely, then squeeze out excess moisture before using it in the sauté.
What’s the best bread for grilled cheese?
Sourdough, ciabatta, or rustic Italian bread offers the perfect crisp and chew.
Can I make it ahead?
You can prep the spinach mixture in advance, but it’s best to grill the sandwich fresh for optimal crispiness.
Is it freezer-friendly?
Not recommended. The sandwich may lose its crisp texture upon reheating.
Mediterranean Spinach Grilled Cheese
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A Mediterranean twist on the classic grilled cheese, made with sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, feta, and gooey mozzarella.
Ingredients
4 slices sourdough bread
2 tablespoons olive oil or butter
1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
1 garlic clove, minced
¼ cup sun-dried tomatoes, sliced
¼ cup Kalamata olives, sliced
½ cup feta cheese
½ cup mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sauté garlic until fragrant.
2. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and olives. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Layer the spinach mixture on two slices of bread. Add feta and mozzarella. Top with remaining slices.
4. Brush outsides with oil or butter.
5. Grill on skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes per side until golden and cheese is melted.
6. Slice and serve warm.
Notes
You can prepare the spinach mixture ahead of time for faster assembly.
This sandwich pairs well with a warm soup or fresh salad.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 390
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 640mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 13g
- Cholesterol: 35mg