Tired of the same old dinner routine? Craving something delicious, healthy, and easy to make? Then look no further! This Green Goddess Caprese Melt is the perfect quick dinner idea, bursting with fresh flavors and ready in under 20 minutes. It’s a delightful twist on the classic Caprese salad, elevated with a creamy, vibrant Green Goddess dressing and the comforting warmth of melted mozzarella. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight meal, a light lunch, or even a sophisticated appetizer. Get ready to impress yourself and your loved ones with this simple yet stunning dish!
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of your favorite artisan bread (sourdough or ciabatta work wonderfully)
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup Green Goddess dressing (store-bought or homemade – recipe below!)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Homemade Green Goddess Dressing: (makes about 1 cup)
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream or Greek yogurt (for a lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
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Prepare the Green Goddess Dressing (if making from scratch): Combine all dressing ingredients in a small bowl and whisk until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed. Refrigerate until ready to use.
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Assemble the Melts: Preheat your oven's broiler to high. Lightly brush both sides of each bread slice with olive oil.
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Layer the Ingredients: On two slices of bread, layer half of the mozzarella slices, followed by half of the tomato slices and half of the basil. Drizzle generously with Green Goddess dressing. Top with the remaining mozzarella, tomato, and basil. Season with salt and pepper.
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Broil to Perfection: Place the assembled melts on a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the bread is lightly toasted. Keep a close eye to prevent burning.
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Serve Immediately: Top each melt with the remaining bread slices and serve immediately. Enjoy the warm, gooey goodness!
Tips for the Best Green Goddess Caprese Melt:
- Use high-quality ingredients: The fresher your ingredients, the better your melt will taste. Look for ripe, flavorful tomatoes and fresh herbs.
- Don't overcrowd the baking sheet: Give your melts enough space to brown evenly.
- Adjust the broiling time: Oven temperatures vary, so keep a close eye on your melts to prevent burning.
- Get creative with your bread: Try different types of bread for a unique flavor experience.
Variations:
- Add some spice: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes to the Green Goddess dressing for a little kick.
- Add protein: Grilled chicken or prosciutto would be delicious additions.
- Make it vegetarian: Use a vegan mayonnaise and yogurt for a plant-based version.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Fat: 20-25g
- Protein: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 25-30g
This Green Goddess Caprese Melt is a delicious and healthy meal option that’s perfect for busy weeknights. The combination of fresh flavors and melted cheese is irresistible, making it a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Enjoy!