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Sunday, November 25, 2012

Mozzarella, Raspberry, and Brown Sugar Panini

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I think it’s safe to say I’m attracted to “weird” recipes. If it’s an odd or untraditional combination, you can bet I’m going to want to try it. Such was the case with this grilled cheese sandwich, which couldn’t be further from the well-known white bread and American cheese version.

Thankfully, my sister and brother-in-law are used to me straying from the norm, and accept my dinner invitations even when I put jam and herbs on our grilled cheese sandwiches! Weird as these sounded, the combination actually worked quite well. The photo isn't great because my camera was on some weird settings, but I felt compelled to post the recipe regardless! I’ve put rosemary in bread before, but never inside a sandwich, especially a fruity one! The mozzarella was mild enough to give the rosemary a chance to shine, and the raspberry jam sweetened the deal! (Confession-I totally forgot to add the brown sugar, but am including the whole recipe below because I bet it'd be an excellent addition! I can assure you it's good without too!)

Find yourself a hearty loaf of bread and break out the Panini press! If you don’t have one, make it on a skillet but spread olive oil on the bread instead of butter. Pair it with some soup, like we did, or a salad, and enjoy your introduction to “weird” food.

What’s a “weird” food combination that isn’t weird to you?

One Year Ago: BBQ Collard Greens with Edamame
Two Years Ago: Turkey Sandwiches with Cranberry 
Three Years Ago: A Thanksgiving Post (and Ryan's proposal story!)

Mozzarella, Raspberry, and Brown Sugar Panini
from Giada at Home, Food Network
*for 4 sandwiches
Ingredients:
-8 slices of bakery-style white or wheat bread
-1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
-1/2 cup raspberry jam
-2 tsp chopped fresh rosemary
-8 oz fresh mozzarella
-2 tbsp light brown sugar

Directions:
1. Preheat the panini press, if using. Brush the bread on both sides with oil. Spread raspberry jam on one side of 4 slices. Sprinkle rosemary over the jam.
2. Cut mozzarella into 8 slices and place 2 slices of cheese on four slices of bread. Assemble sandwiches and sprinkle the tops with brown sugar.
3. Cook sandwiches in panini press or on the stovetop, pressing for 3-5 minutes until cheese has melted and bread is golden and crispy. Serve warm.