Golden melty sandwiches with fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil inspired by Caprese salad. Sliced into strips for dipping in marinara sauce.
# What You'll Need:
→ Bread & Dairy
01 - 8 slices sourdough or country white bread
02 - 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
03 - 3 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
→ Vegetables & Herbs
04 - 2 medium ripe tomatoes, sliced
05 - 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
→ Sauce
06 - 1 cup marinara sauce, warmed
→ Seasonings
07 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
08 - 1 tbsp olive oil, optional for brushing bread
# How to Make:
01 - Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat until evenly hot.
02 - Lay out all bread slices and spread softened butter on one side of each slice.
03 - On the unbuttered side of half the bread slices, layer mozzarella, tomato slices, and basil leaves. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
04 - Top each assembled base with remaining bread slices, placing them with buttered side facing outward.
05 - Lightly brush olive oil on the outside of each sandwich for enhanced crispness if desired.
06 - Place sandwiches in the preheated skillet. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes per side while pressing gently, until golden brown and cheese is fully melted.
07 - Remove sandwiches and allow to cool for 1 to 2 minutes. Slice each sandwich into 3 to 4 dippable strips.
08 - Serve warm strips alongside a bowl of heated marinara sauce for dipping.
