Vegan Spinach Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe
Introduction
This Vegan Spinach Pesto Grilled Cheese is a delicious twist on the classic sandwich, packed with fresh spinach and flavorful vegan pesto. It’s perfect for a quick lunch or a cozy dinner, offering melty, cheesy goodness without any dairy.
Ingredients
- 1 handful of fresh spinach, chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons vegan buttery spread of choice (as needed)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 slices of your favorite bread
- 2 tablespoons of your favorite vegan pesto
- 2 Daiya Swiss Style Slices
Instructions
- Step 1: Sauté the chopped spinach over medium-high heat with a little vegan buttery spread or oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then set aside.
- Step 2: Spread vegan pesto evenly on each slice of bread.
- Step 3: On one slice, layer the Daiya Swiss Style Slices and then the sautéed spinach. Top with the second slice of bread, pesto side down.
- Step 4: For an extra golden crust, spread the outside of each slice of bread with vegan buttery spread or coconut oil.
- Step 5: Heat a pan over medium heat with some additional vegan buttery spread or coconut oil. Once hot, place your sandwich in the pan.
- Step 6: Use a spatula to press the sandwich down. Optionally, cover with a clear pot lid to help melt the cheese. Before flipping, add a little more spread or oil if the pan looks dry. Flip and cook the other side until both sides are golden brown and the center is melty.
Tips & Variations
- Try adding sliced tomatoes or roasted red peppers inside for extra flavor and texture.
- Use gluten-free bread if you prefer a gluten-free option.
- Swap the Daiya Swiss slices with your favorite vegan cheese to customize the taste.
Storage
Store leftover grilled cheese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to keep the bread crispy and the cheese melty, or use a toaster oven. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this sandwich without vegan pesto?
Yes, you can substitute with sun-dried tomato spread, hummus, or a simple garlic and olive oil mixture to add flavor.
What can I use if I don’t have vegan buttery spread?
Olive oil or coconut oil work well as alternatives for sautéing and spreading on the bread for a crispy crust.
Print
Vegan Spinach Pesto Grilled Cheese Recipe
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 1 sandwich 1x
- Diet: Vegan
Description
This Vegan Spinach Pesto Grilled Cheese is a delicious plant-based twist on the classic sandwich. Featuring sautéed fresh spinach, flavorful vegan pesto, and melty Daiya Swiss Style slices, it’s a satisfying and savory meal perfect for lunch or a cozy dinner. The sandwich is pan-toasted to a golden crisp, creating a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy vegan goodness with vibrant spinach and aromatic pesto.
Ingredients
Vegetables and Spread
- 1 handful fresh spinach, chopped
- 1–2 tablespoons vegan buttery spread (as needed, divided)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Bread and Toppings
- 2 slices of your favorite bread
- 2 tablespoons vegan pesto
- 2 Daiya Swiss Style slices
Instructions
- Sauté Spinach: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of vegan buttery spread or oil. Add the chopped fresh spinach, season with salt and pepper to taste, and sauté until wilted. Remove from heat and set aside.
- Prepare Bread: Spread 1 tablespoon of vegan pesto on each slice of bread evenly.
- Assemble Sandwich: Place the Daiya Swiss Style slices over the pesto on one slice of bread. Top the cheese with the sautéed spinach, then place the second slice of bread on top, pesto side down.
- Butter the Bread: Spread vegan buttery spread or coconut oil on the outside of each slice of bread to help achieve a golden crust.
- Cook the Sandwich: Heat a clean pan over medium heat and add more vegan buttery spread or coconut oil. Once hot, place the sandwich in the pan. Use a spatula to press down on the sandwich gently.
- Melting and Flipping: Optionally cover the sandwich with a clear pot lid to help melt the vegan cheese slices evenly. Before flipping, check if the pan is dry and add a little more vegan buttery spread or oil if necessary. Flip and cook the other side until golden brown and melty inside.
Notes
- If you don’t have vegan buttery spread, light olive oil or coconut oil are good substitutes for sautéing and frying.
- For added flavor, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or chili flakes to the sautéed spinach.
- You can substitute the Daiya Swiss Style slices with any other vegan cheese of your choice.
- Use a heavy spatula or sandwich press for an even crispier crust if desired.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Vegan, American
Keywords: Vegan grilled cheese, spinach pesto sandwich, plant-based sandwich, vegan cheese sandwich, quick vegan meal
