Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Fresh and Flavorful: The combination of ripe avocado, fresh tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella creates a harmonious blend of flavors that elevate the traditional grilled cheese experience.
Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation and cooking time, this sandwich is perfect for a quick meal that doesn’t compromise on taste.
Versatile: This recipe allows for easy customization with various breads and additional ingredients to suit personal preferences.

Ingredients

4 slices of sourdough or whole wheat bread
1 ripe avocado, mashed
1 large tomato, sliced
4 slices of fresh mozzarella cheese
2 tablespoons butter, softened
1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional, for extra crispiness)
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil (for added crispiness)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Prepare the Ingredients:
- Slice the tomato into thin rounds and season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- In a small bowl, mash the ripe avocado with a fork, adding a pinch of salt and a squeeze of lemon juice to prevent browning.
Prepare the Bread:
- Spread a thin layer of softened butter on one side of each bread slice. For extra crispiness, you can also spread a light layer of mayonnaise over the buttered side.
Assemble the Sandwich:
- On the unbuttered side of two bread slices, evenly spread the mashed avocado.
- Layer the fresh mozzarella slices on top of the avocado spread.
- Place the seasoned tomato slices over the mozzarella.
- Sprinkle with garlic powder, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if desired.
- Top with the remaining bread slices, buttered side facing outward.
Grill the Sandwich:
- Heat a large skillet or griddle over medium-low heat and add a drizzle of olive oil.
- Place the assembled sandwiches in the skillet.
- Cook for about 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula to help the bread crisp up and the cheese melt.
- Flip carefully and cook the other side until golden brown and the mozzarella is melted.
Serve:
- Once both sides are crispy and the cheese is gooey, remove the sandwiches from the pan.
- Let them sit for a minute before slicing in half.
- Serve immediately while warm and melty.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields 2 sandwiches.
Preparation Time: Approximately 10 minutes
Cooking Time: About 10 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes

Variations

Caprese Style: Add a drizzle of balsamic glaze and some fresh basil leaves to enhance the Italian flavors.
Protein Boost: Include grilled chicken for extra protein and texture.
Spicy Kick: Spread a layer of sriracha or add sliced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
Cheese Alternatives: Swap mozzarella for provolone, gouda, or Swiss to explore different flavor profiles.
Whole Grain Option: Use whole-grain or sprouted bread for a healthier version.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, if you have leftovers, wrap them tightly in aluminum foil and store in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Reheating: To reheat, place the wrapped sandwich in a preheated 350°F (175°C) oven for about 10 minutes, or until warmed through. Note that reheating may affect the texture of the avocado.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of bread?

Yes, you can use any bread of your choice, such as multigrain, ciabatta, or even a baguette, depending on your preference.

Is there an alternative to butter for grilling the sandwich?

If you prefer, you can use olive oil or a plant-based butter substitute to grill the sandwich.

Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?

Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like fresh basil leaves, spinach, or a drizzle of pesto to enhance the flavor.

How can I prevent the avocado from browning?

Adding a squeeze of lemon or lime juice to the mashed avocado helps slow down the browning process.

Is this sandwich suitable for vegetarians?

Yes, this sandwich is vegetarian-friendly as it contains no meat products.

Can I make this sandwich vegan?

To make a vegan version, use plant-based cheese and butter substitutes, and ensure the bread is vegan-friendly.