how-to | make grilled cheese sandwiches

April 7th is National Grilled Cheese Day so I thought I would make a week of it and explore the wonderful world of grilled cheese because (let me be honest) who doesn't love to eat a grilled cheese sandwich?!

The most important part of a grilled cheese sandwich is how you make it.  There are three ways to make a grilled cheese, and I have broken down each into some simple steps!

 {the pan method before and after}

the pan method

1. Heat a non-stick pan to medium-high.
2. Thinly spread mayo on the OUTSIDE of the sandwich.
3. Place sandwich in pan and press down with a spatula.  You don't need to keep constant pressure (unless you want to), but I alternated about 15 seconds between each sandwich.
4. Check after 1 minute; if sandwich is browned to your liking, then flip and repeat the pressing.
5. Serve!

 

 {the panini press/electric grill method before and after}

the panini press/electric grill method

1. Plug in grill and heat to medium-high.
2. Thinly spread mayo on the OUTSIDE of the sandwich.
3. Place sandwich on grill and close.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until desired doneness is reach.
5. Serve!

 {the toaster oven method before and after}

the toaster oven method

1. Heat toaster oven to broil.
2. Place each slice of the sandwich in toaster oven (open as in the the above before picture).
3. Toast until cheese melts/browns.
4. Allow sandwich to cool for about 5 minutes then press together.
5. Serve!

I loved the toaster oven method for years, but I must confess that I really love the pan or panini method much better!

How do you prefer your grilled cheese sandwich?  Is there a method that you use that I didn't mention?  I'd love to hear it!


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food for thought

My best friend is on the other side of the country, and today is her birthday.  I love her so much, and I miss her every day.  We talk to hours on end, and it never feels like there are thousands of miles between us.  She is in a stressful time in her life.  She forgets how beautiful, intelligent, and wonderful she is.  I like to remind her about it, and this is one of my favorite quotes because it is so true for everyone especially her. 

I hope you have a wonderful Easter weekend!

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what's in season | April

I don't know about you, but I'm ready for spring!  This winter has been especially cold, snowy, and gray.

{picture from last year}

I have a feeling that my mom and I will start heading to the farmer's market this month.  If nothing else, to see some green since everyone will be selling seedlings and small plants.

Although not much is in season here in Kentucky, there are a few items:

Asparagus (late April)
Greens (late April)
Radishes (late April)

I have some asparagus recipes in mind because it's one of my favorite vegetables!  May adds a few more to the list, but local produce will pick up with June.

Will you be planting or heading to the market this month?

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monthly munchies | April

I watched in slight horror as snow fell last week, but luckily they were only flurries and didn't hang around although the cold did for a few days.  However, now warmer temperatures and April showers have arrived!

{because sometimes I need the high protein}

Anyway, lots of fun stuff will be happening on the blog this month:

• The farmer's market is starting back up so the what's in season series is back!  Catch it tomorrow.
• April 7th is grilled cheese sandwich day.  To honor that, I have an entire week lined up of  delicious recipes AND a tutorial on how to make grilled cheese sandwiches three (yes 3!) different ways! 
• April 12th is coffee cake day.  I made cupcakes instead, and they are divine!
• The last week of April means KY Derby preparations including delicious treats for race day!  I'll be show casing some KY Proud recipes all week!

Such a busy month so make sure you keep checking for new recipes!

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