Whipped Feta Grilled Cheese with Blistered Cherry Tomatoes

Step 1

Add room temperature crumbled feta and cream cheese to your food processor, or a large mixing bowl. Slowly pour in one tablespoon of olive oil while you pulse the food processor or use your mixer. The cheeses will blend and create a whipped, creamy mixture. Remember: your cheeses must be room temperature or they won't blend.

Step 2

Heat a heavy cast iron skillet on medium heat for about 5 minutes. Add oil, then stir in minced garlic for about 30 seconds or until fragrant.

Step 3

Add the cherry tomatoes (watch for splashing!) and let sit for 2-3 minutes until they start to blister. Give them a quick stir and let them sit for about 2 more minutes. Remove from heat. Sprinkle with salt and pepper, fresh torn basil, and any other herbs you're using. (I like to burst my tomatoes with the back of a spoon or else they'll explode when you bite into your sandwich!). Set aside.

Step 4

Melt four tablespoons of butter in the microwave. Spread or brush the melted butter on one side of each slide of bread. Spread the whipped feta** on the other halves, then top with shredded mozzarella and blistered tomatoes. Top with the other bread slices, buttered side out.

Step 5

Heat a sauce pan on medium heat. Once hot, place the buttered sides of the bread down. Cover, and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until your bread is golden brown. Carefully flip the sandwiches and cook on the other side until golden brown. Serve HOT! Don't forget the napkins–it can get messy!