Build a Better Sandwich: Happy National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day!

Happy National Grilled Cheese Sandwich Day!  That’s right; the warm, gooey comforting grilled cheese sandwich has its own holiday!  What better way to celebrate than to go over some tips on how to give your classic sandwich a healthy makeover.

Bread:  Try making your grilled cheese sandwich using whole wheat bread instead of white bread. Using whole wheat bread will boost your fiber intake and help keep your GI tract working well.  Or, try wrapping up your grilled cheese, by using a whole-wheat wrap. This will most certainly give your old sandwich a sophisticated spin.

Veggies:  Add your favorite veggies to a grilled cheese for added flavor and nutritional power!  Some veggies that will make delicious additions to your grilled cheese include romaine lettuce, slices of tomatoes, cucumbers, and red or green peppers to enhance flavor.  This is a simple and delicious way to increase your vegetable intake for the day.

Protein:  For those of you who are vegetarians, I bet you never considered jazzing up your grilled cheese sandwich with hummus, peanut butter, veggie patties, or tempeh.  Remember, sandwiches are not just for cold cuts!

Cheese:  Cheese is the most essential component to a grilled cheese sandwich.  What would a grilled cheese sandwich be without the cheese?  Make your grilled cheese a bit healthier by using low-fat or nonfat cheese products.  Get creative…you don’t always have to use American cheese.  Try low/nonfat shredded mozzarella or Muenster cheese to lower your overall fat content.

Condiments:  Mix it up with condiments.  Instead of using regular mayo, use nonfat mayo or better yet, mustard.  Or try using nonfat dressings to add flavor without adding unnecessary calories.   Add salsa for a low-fat way to spice it up!

Get creative:  When people think of sandwiches, most think of cold sandwiches.  Grilled cheese sandwiches can be made in the toaster oven, in a pan on the stove top, or in a Panini maker.  Looking to add some fiber to your day?  Try adding a tablespoon of milled flaxseed to the middle of your sandwich for a fantastic fiber bonus; it’s that easy!

As you can see there are many healthy variations you can make to revamp your grilled cheese sandwich.  Making these changes or additions to your grilled cheese can be a convenient way to add healthy nutrients to your menus.

What are some of your favorite ways to make a grilled cheese sandwich with a nutritional twist?

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