Italian Tomato and Cheese Melt: A Quick and Delicious Summer Sandwich
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 5 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Recipe Category: Lunch / Snacks
Servings: 1
This Italian Tomato and Cheese Melt is the perfect quick and flavorful sandwich for those lazy summer days when you want something satisfying but don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen. With the rich, creamy texture of mozzarella and the sharp, tangy flavor of provolone (or fontinella), paired with fresh, ripe tomatoes and fragrant basil, this sandwich is a delightful treat for any time of day. You can prepare this in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal option for a fast, delicious lunch or a savory snack. The use of a crusty hoagie-style roll makes it extra satisfying, with each bite offering a burst of flavor from the combination of fresh ingredients.
Ingredients for One Sandwich:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Plum tomatoes | 1 (sliced) |
| Mozzarella cheese | 2 slices |
| Provolone cheese (or fontinella) | 3 slices |
| Fresh basil leaves | 3 leaves |
| Olive oil | 4 teaspoons |
| Garlic powder | 1 teaspoon |
| Black pepper | 1 pinch |
Nutritional Information (per serving):
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 866.5 kcal |
| Total Fat | 58 g |
| Saturated Fat | 28 g |
| Cholesterol | 126.5 mg |
| Sodium | 1596.3 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 39.2 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugars | 5.8 g |
| Protein | 47.6 g |
Instructions:
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Prepare the Roll: Start by drizzling a small amount of olive oil inside the hoagie-style roll. This will add a nice richness to the bread and help it crisp up as it broils.
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Layer the Tomatoes: Place the sliced plum tomatoes evenly on the inside of the roll. You want the tomatoes to cover the surface of the roll for maximum flavor in each bite.
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Add the Mozzarella Cheese: Lay down the slices of mozzarella cheese on top of the tomato layer. The mozzarella will melt wonderfully and create a creamy base for the sandwich.
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Top with Basil and Seasonings: Add the fresh basil leaves on top of the mozzarella. Drizzle with a little more olive oil and sprinkle with garlic powder and black pepper to taste. These seasonings will enhance the sandwich’s flavor, making each bite an aromatic experience.
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Add Provolone or Fontinella: Place the slices of provolone cheese (or fontinella if you prefer a sharper flavor) on top of the basil layer. You can also add more mozzarella if you like a cheesier melt.
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Broil to Perfection: Place the assembled sandwich under the broiler for about 4 to 5 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden, and the roll is lightly browned on the edges. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once the sandwich is golden brown and the cheese has melted into a beautiful gooey consistency, remove it from the oven. Serve immediately for a delightful summer lunch or snack.
This Italian Tomato and Cheese Melt is the epitome of simplicity meets indulgence. With fresh, vibrant ingredients and just a few minutes under the broiler, you’ll have a warm, delicious sandwich ready to satisfy your cravings. It’s perfect for a quick bite or an easy meal that brings the flavors of Italy right to your kitchen. Feel free to adjust the cheese types or add more vegetables if you prefer, but no matter how you make it, this sandwich is always a winner!
