Crafting the Best Grilled Cheese

Grilled cheese became a staple of the American diet in the 1920s after the invention of sliced bread. Grilled cheese sandwiches have become so popular that almost every restaurant in America features one! Celebrate this gooey and delicious meal on April 12th for National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day.

While the traditional grilled cheese is American cheese melted between two slices of white bread, there are some alterations you can make to add more health benefits. Many chronic dieters avoid grilled cheese and consider it an “off-limits” food. However, grilled cheese is full of nutrients and can be part of any healthy diet. From the bread that you choose to the cheese, and even the way that you cook it, there are so many ways to make your meal even more nutritious!

There is nothing wrong with enjoying a classic American cheese sandwich, however, why not spice things up? You can make this popular sandwich more “adult” by making a few simple, yet delicious, swaps.

Building A Nutritious Sandwich

A grilled cheese sandwich can offer many nutritional benefits, especially when you change things up and use different ingredients. Here are some easy ways to add more health benefits to your sandwich:

Whole-grain Bread:Swap out the traditional white bread for fiber-rich whole-grain bread. Adding more fiber to your diet can reduce your bad cholesterol and keep your gastrointestinal tract healthy.

Different Cheeses:If you are looking to elevate the flavor as well as change the nutrient and probiotic profile of your sandwich try different types of cheeses.

Add Protein: Your body uses protein for muscle repair, biochemical reactions, structure, and a myriad of other processes. You can add turkey, chicken, or even tofu to your sandwich to increase its protein content.

Choose a Side:A typical grilled cheese sandwich comes with a side of tomato soup, which can be filled with added sugars and salt. Try pairing your sandwich with homemade soup, salad, or roasted veggies.

Cooking Style:While most people “Grill” their cheese sandwich on the stove with butter, you can bake your sandwich instead. Baking can reduce the saturated fat content by eliminating the need for butter.

Adding Flavor and Fun

Grilled cheese is a great sandwich because it is not only delectable but is simple to make. With some small adjustments, you can turn this kid classic into a gourmet meal.

Three Cheese:Why choose one cheese when you can have three! Instead of just American cheese, make your sandwich with Swiss and cheddar cheese too.

Veggies:Add caramelized onions and other roasted vegetables of your choice to elevate the flavor.

Sour-dough bread:Instead of the classic melted cheese sandwiched by two slices of white bread, create an open-faced toast with melted cheese and sourdough bread.

Truffle Oil and Figs: If you are looking for something a little sweet and bold, cook your sandwich in truffle oil and add roasted figs.

When it comes to grilled cheese, there is no wrong way to make it! Have some fun with the flavors, who knows your new dish may even be better than the original.

Your Turn to Take Action: What are you going to do to make a more delicious grilled cheese sandwich? Let me know in the comments below.