Caprese Grilled Cheese - Pantry Vector

# Ingredient List:

→ Bread & Dairy

01 - 4 slices sourdough or Italian bread

02 - 4 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced

03 - 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened

→ Vegetables & Herbs

04 - 1 large ripe tomato, thinly sliced

05 - 8 to 10 fresh basil leaves

→ Condiments & Garnish

06 - 1 tablespoon balsamic glaze

07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# Directions:

01 - Lay out the bread slices and spread softened butter evenly on one side of each slice.

02 - Place two slices of bread, butter-side down, on a clean surface. Layer mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Season lightly with salt and pepper.

03 - Drizzle a small amount of balsamic glaze over the tomato and basil layer.

04 - Top with the remaining bread slices, butter-side up.

05 - Preheat a large nonstick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.

06 - Place sandwiches in the pan and cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side, pressing gently until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.

07 - Remove sandwiches from skillet, allow to rest for 1 minute, then slice in half. Optionally drizzle with extra balsamic glaze before serving.

# Expert Suggestions:

01 -

It tastes like you spent the afternoon at an Italian market, but it takes only 10 minutes to cook.
The warm mozzarella meets cool tomato in a way that feels like a small indulgence every single time.
You get to use fresh basil in a way that actually matters—not buried or cooked away, but vibrant and real.

02 -

The cheese will melt faster than the bread will toast, so medium heat is non-negotiable—high heat means a raw center and scorched edges.
Fresh mozzarella is softer than cheddar or American cheese, so it needs extra support from the tomato slices and basil leaves to stay in place during cooking.

03 -