Panini Recipe: The Ultimate Grilled Cheddar BLT

The BLT is a classic, and for good reason. It’s a simple, lunchtime staple and when you’ve got a craving for it, nothing else will do. But why pick one up at the local fast food joint when you can make one from scratch at home? Throwing together a BLT is super easy and it tastes even better homemade.

In this delicious BLT recipe, we’ve opted for focaccia bread– it makes the sandwich nice and crusty and gives it a boost of flavor. Sourdough is another great choice– but feel free to mix and match with your own favorite bread. Another unusual addition to this BLT: avocado. Not only is this lovely green veggie good for you, but it blends together perfectly with the other ingredients and makes this sandwich truly fantastic.

Tip: If you don’t have a panini press on hand, you can still toast your sandwich by placing it on the stovetop on a skillet and heating it up to medium-high, then using a lid or another pan as a makeshift press.

Grilled Cheddar BLT

(makes 2 servings)

Ingredients:

• 4 slices of focaccia or bread of your choice
• 2 Tbsp butter
• 4 slices of cooked bacon
• 2 slices lettuce
• 2-4 slices of tomato
• 2 slices cheddar cheese
• ½ avocado
• 1 tsp lime juice
• 1 Tbsp mayonnaise
• Pinch of salt & pepper

Directions:

1. Heat panini press or griddle on the stovetop
2. Combine avocado, lime juice, mayonnaise and salt and pepper.
3. Spread 1/2 avocado mixture on one slice of bread.
4. Top with 2 strips bacon, 1 slice tomato, lettuce leaf, slice of cheddar cheese and final piece of bread.
5. Smear bread with 1 tablespoon butter and place on hot panini grill.
6. Butter remaining bread.
7. Repeat steps with second sandwich.
8. Serve with tater tots, fries or your favorite soup. Enjoy!

Recipe adapted fromPetit Foodie.