Introduction: Beyond Soup and Grilled Cheese
Grilled cheese is a classic comfort food that is enjoyed by people all over the world. The combination of melted cheese and crispy bread is simply irresistible. However, many people associate grilled cheese with soup, and they may not be aware of the many other dishes that go well with this beloved sandwich. In this article, we will explore a variety of different foods that pair perfectly with grilled cheese.
Sandwich and Salad Pairings
Grilled cheese sandwiches are a classic lunchtime staple, but they can also be enjoyed as part of a larger meal. One great option is to pair your grilled cheese with a fresh salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing is a great choice, as the acidity of the dressing helps to cut through the richness of the cheese. Alternatively, you could try a more substantial salad with ingredients such as roasted vegetables, chicken, or bacon.
Grilled Cheese and Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce is a classic pairing with grilled cheese, and it’s easy to see why. The tangy, slightly sweet flavor of the sauce provides a delicious contrast to the rich, gooey cheese. You could try dipping your sandwich directly into a bowl of tomato sauce, or you could spread some sauce onto the bread before grilling the sandwich. For an extra kick, you could add some red pepper flakes or Italian seasoning to the sauce.
Grilled Cheese and Fruits
If you’re looking for a healthier option to pair with your grilled cheese, fruits are a great choice. The sweetness of the fruit provides a nice contrast to the savory cheese, and the acidity helps to cut through the richness of the sandwich. Some great fruit options to try include slices of apple or pear, fresh berries, or even a handful of grapes.
Grilled Cheese and Bacon
Bacon and cheese are a match made in heaven, and adding some crispy bacon to your grilled cheese sandwich is always a good idea. You could add the bacon directly to the sandwich before grilling it, or you could serve some crispy bacon on the side for dipping. For an even more decadent option, you could try making a bacon and grilled cheese sandwich with three or even four slices of bread.
Grilled Cheese and Pickles
If you’re a fan of pickles, you’ll be pleased to know that they pair perfectly with grilled cheese. The tangy, slightly sour flavor of the pickles helps to cut through the richness of the cheese, and the crunch provides a nice textural contrast. You could try adding some sliced pickles directly to your sandwich, or you could serve some pickles on the side for dipping.
Grilled Cheese and Eggs
If you’re looking for a hearty breakfast option, grilled cheese and eggs is a great choice. You could make a classic breakfast sandwich with a fried egg, bacon, and cheese, or you could try serving your grilled cheese with some scrambled eggs on the side. For an even more indulgent option, you could try making a grilled cheese topped with a fried egg.
Grilled Cheese and Avocado
If you’re looking for a healthier option that still packs a flavor punch, grilled cheese and avocado is a great choice. The creamy, slightly nutty flavor of the avocado pairs perfectly with the rich, gooey cheese. You could try adding some sliced avocado directly to your sandwich, or you could serve some avocado on the side for dipping.
Grilled Cheese and Salsa
If you’re a fan of Mexican flavors, grilled cheese and salsa is a great option. The spicy, tangy flavor of the salsa provides a delicious contrast to the rich, gooey cheese. You could try adding some salsa directly to your sandwich, or you could serve some salsa on the side for dipping. For an even spicier option, you could try adding some sliced jalapenos to your sandwich.
Desserts to Pair with Grilled Cheese
Finally, if you have a sweet tooth, there are a variety of desserts that pair perfectly with grilled cheese. One classic option is to serve your grilled cheese with a side of tomato soup and a warm chocolate chip cookie for dipping. Another option is to serve your grilled cheese with some fresh fruit, such as sliced strawberries or bananas. For a more indulgent dessert option, you could try making a grilled cheese sandwich with Nutella and sliced bananas.
