Mediterranean Spinach Grilled Cheese

This Mediterranean Spinach Grilled Cheese is a vibrant twist on the classic comfort food everyone loves. The combination of fresh spinach, tangy feta, melty mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes, and olives creates a sandwich bursting with Mediterranean flavors. It’s a quick meal that feels fresh and filling, perfect for lunch or a simple dinner.

I first made this recipe when I was craving something familiar but wanted a fresh, healthy upgrade. It quickly became a favorite in my household with everyone loving the Mediterranean flair.

Ingredients

• Sourdough or your favorite bread: choose good quality and fresh bread for a crispy, sturdy sandwich
• Fresh spinach leaves: provides a healthy green boost and lovely texture when wilted
• Crumbled feta cheese: adds a salty tang typical of Mediterranean cuisine
• Shredded mozzarella cheese: melts beautifully for that classic grilled cheese stretch
• Sun-dried tomatoes: chopped bring sweetness and a concentrated tomato flavor
• Olives: sliced for a briny depth that complements the cheeses
• Olive oil: helps sauté the spinach and toast the sandwich with authentic Mediterranean notes
• Butter: spreads on bread for golden, crispy exterior
• Dried oregano: packs herbal aroma and flavor this spice brings the dish together
• Garlic powder: enhances the savory elements without overwhelming
• Salt and pepper: to taste balance and brighten all the ingredients

Instructions

Sauté the Spinach:

Heat one tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach leaves and cook for two to three minutes until wilted but still vibrant green. Remove from heat and set aside. This step softens the spinach and releases some moisture while concentrating its flavor.

Mix the Filling:

In a small bowl combine crumbled feta cheese, shredded mozzarella cheese, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, sliced olives, and the sautéed spinach. Add dried oregano, garlic powder, and season with salt and pepper. Stir well so the flavors are evenly blended making every bite delicious.

Prepare the Bread:

Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. This buttered side will become the crispy golden outside of your grilled cheese. It ensures the bread browns beautifully without burning.

Assemble the Sandwiches:

Place the bread slices buttered side down then evenly spread the spinach and cheese mixture on top. Cover each with another bread slice buttered side up. This creates a sealed sandwich ready for grilling.

Heat the Skillet:

Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil in a large non-stick skillet and warm over medium heat. The olive oil adds flavor and additional crispiness to the bread.

Grill the Sandwiches:

Place the sandwiches carefully into the hot skillet. Cook for three to four minutes on each side until the bread turns golden brown and the cheese inside melts into a gooey delight. Keep the heat moderate so the bread does not burn while the cheese melts completely.

Rest and Slice:

Remove the sandwiches from the skillet and let them rest for one to two minutes. This allows the filling to settle slightly making for easier slicing without the cheese spilling out.

Serve and Enjoy:

Cut the sandwiches in half and serve immediately for the best taste and texture. Enjoy the layers of Mediterranean goodness with every bite.

I love the sun-dried tomatoes in this recipe because they bring such an incredible burst of flavor that pairs perfectly with creamy feta. It reminds me of summers spent at Mediterranean markets where fresh ingredients are always the star of the meal. This sandwich always transports me right back to those sunny afternoons.

Storage Tips

This grilled cheese is best enjoyed fresh to keep the bread crispy, but you can wrap leftovers tightly and refrigerate for up to two days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat instead of a microwave to regain some crispness.

Ingredient Substitutions

Try substituting fresh kale or arugula if you do not have spinach. Use goat cheese instead of feta for a creamier texture. If you prefer milder oils, butter alone can be used instead of olive oil.

Serving Suggestions

Serve with a crisp side salad or tomato soup to complement the Mediterranean flavors. A squeeze of lemon over the sandwich before eating adds a fresh zing.

This Mediterranean grilled cheese blends fresh ingredients with rich cheese for a quick, flavorful meal. Perfect for busy days when you want comfort with a healthy twist.

FAQs about Recipes

→ What type of bread works best for this sandwich?

Sourdough bread is ideal for its sturdy texture and tangy flavor that complements the filling well.

→ Can I substitute the cheeses used in the filling?

Yes, you can replace feta and mozzarella with similar cheeses like goat cheese or provolone for a different flavor profile.

→ How should the spinach be prepared before assembling?

Spinach is sautéed in olive oil until wilted, which enhances its flavor and reduces moisture for the filling.

→ What cooking method ensures the bread becomes perfectly crisp?

Pan-grilling the sandwich in olive oil over medium heat allows the bread to brown evenly and the cheese to melt inside.

→ Are sun-dried tomatoes essential for the flavor?

They add a concentrated, slightly sweet and tangy taste that balances the richness of the cheeses and olives.

→ How can I make the sandwich suitable for a vegetarian diet?

This sandwich is already vegetarian as it contains no meat, focusing on vegetables and cheeses for flavor and protein.