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A grilled vegetable sandwich with goat cheese is an ideal way to incorporate more vegetables into your diet. It combines grilled zucchini and eggplant with a blend of fresh herbs like basil, tarragon, and thyme, which bring out the earthiness of the vegetables and enhance the creamy, tangy goat cheese. Layered on a crunchy baguette, this sandwich can be enjoyed hot off the grill or packed for a cold lunch.
Why You’ll Love Grilled Vegetable Sandwich with Goat Cheese
- Simple yet Elegant: This sandwich is easy to prepare yet feels gourmet, making it ideal for both weekday lunches and weekend brunches.
- Healthy and Nutritious: It’s packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber from the vegetables, plus healthy fats from olive oil and protein from goat cheese.
- Customizable: You can easily adapt the recipe to include your favorite vegetables or herbs, making it unique every time.
Prep Time, Cook Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Servings: 4 sandwiches
Ingredients List of Grilled Vegetable Sandwich with Goat Cheese
Here’s everything you’ll need to make a grilled vegetable sandwich with goat cheese. This recipe yields 4 servings.
Vegetables and Herbs
- 2 zucchini (ends trimmed, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick pieces)
- 2 Japanese eggplants (ends trimmed, sliced lengthwise into 1/4-inch-thick pieces)
- 1 cup baby spinach
- 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (drained and finely chopped)
Herb Mixture
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh tarragon leaves, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Other Ingredients
- 1 baguette (about 12 1/2 ounces), sliced in half lengthwise
- 1 cup goat cheese (softened to room temperature)
Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Vegetable Sandwich with Goat Cheese
Step 1: Prepare the Herb Mixture
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, sun-dried tomatoes, basil, tarragon, thyme, salt, and pepper. Mix well to blend all the flavors. Set aside a couple of tablespoons of this mixture to use as a spread for the bread.
Step 2: Marinate the Vegetables
In a medium bowl, add the zucchini and eggplant slices. Pour the remaining herb mixture over the vegetables and toss to coat them evenly. This marinade enhances the flavor and helps the vegetables cook beautifully on the grill.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Place a grill pan over medium-high heat or preheat a gas or charcoal grill. Make sure the grill grates are clean to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Vegetables
Place the zucchini and eggplant on the preheated grill. Cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they are tender and have nice grill marks. Once done, remove them from the grill and set aside.
Step 5: Prepare the Baguette and Goat Cheese
While the vegetables are grilling, cut the baguette in half lengthwise. Spread the reserved herb mixture evenly on both halves. Then, using a spatula or butter knife, spread the softened goat cheese generously over the herb mixture on both sides of the bread.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
Layer the grilled zucchini and eggplant on the bottom half of the baguette. Top the grilled vegetables with a handful of fresh baby spinach, adding an extra layer of color and freshness to the sandwich.
Step 7: Final Assembly and Serve
Place the top half of the baguette over the filling and press down lightly to help the sandwich hold together. Cut the baguette into four equal parts. Serve immediately while warm, or wrap each sandwich in parchment paper for a picnic or to enjoy later.
Recipe Notes and Tips for Grilled Vegetable Sandwich with Goat Cheese
- Grill Pan vs. Outdoor Grill: If you don’t have an outdoor grill, a grill pan works perfectly for this recipe, allowing you to get those beautiful grill marks indoors.
- Softening Goat Cheese: Let the goat cheese sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before spreading. This makes it much easier to work with and gives a creamier texture to the sandwich.
- Substitute for Baguette: While a baguette offers the best texture, you can use other crusty bread like ciabatta, sourdough, or whole grain for a healthier twist.
- Make it Ahead: This sandwich is great for meal prep! Simply wrap the sandwiches tightly in parchment paper and store them in the fridge. For the best freshness, consume within a day.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Total Fat | 26g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 15mg |
| Sodium | 390mg |
| Total Carbohydrate | 22g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Total Sugars | 4g |
| Protein | 10g |
| Calcium | 80mg |
| Iron | 2mg |
| Potassium | 320mg |
Suggested Pairings
This grilled vegetable sandwich with goat cheese is perfect on its own, but pairing it with a side dish can elevate your meal. Here are a few ideas:
- Tomato Basil Soup: The creamy, tangy goat cheese pairs beautifully with the warm, comforting flavors of tomato basil soup.
- Mixed Green Salad: A fresh salad with a light vinaigrette complements the rich flavors of the sandwich without overpowering it.
- Sweet Potato Fries: For a hearty meal, serve this sandwich with a side of crispy, oven-baked sweet potato fries.
Variations and Add-Ons
- Add Avocado: Creamy avocado slices pair beautifully with the grilled vegetables and goat cheese, adding a touch of richness and extra nutrients.
- Experiment with Different Herbs: Swap basil for rosemary or add a pinch of oregano for an Italian twist.
- Protein Boost: Add a slice of grilled chicken breast or smoked turkey for extra protein without compromising the fresh flavors.
- Try Different Cheeses: Feta or ricotta are excellent alternatives if you prefer a milder cheese flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I make this sandwich vegan?
Absolutely! Simply replace the goat cheese with a dairy-free cheese or a spread like hummus, which pairs beautifully with the grilled vegetables.
2. Can I prepare this sandwich ahead of time?
Yes, you can! However, to keep it fresh, it’s best to store the assembled sandwich in the fridge and consume it within 24 hours. Avoid adding the spinach until just before serving to prevent it from wilting.
3. What can I serve with this sandwich?
This sandwich pairs well with a side salad, a warm bowl of tomato soup, or a handful of crunchy veggie sticks.
4. Is there a way to make this sandwich gluten-free?
Yes! Substitute the baguette with your favorite gluten-free bread or wrap for a gluten-free option.
A grilled vegetable sandwich with goat cheese is more than just a sandwich, it’s a wholesome, flavorful experience that celebrates the best of fresh ingredients. With its combination of grilled vegetables, fresh herbs, and creamy cheese, it’s a versatile recipe that can be enjoyed as a light lunch, packed for a picnic, or even served as a hearty snack. This sandwich is easy to customize, so feel free to experiment with different veggies, herbs, and breads to make it uniquely yours.
Enjoy every bite of this delightful creation, and don’t hesitate to share it with friends and family. It’s bound to become a favorite!