Eat Deliciously for a Healthy Life

Add a new twist to your traditional grilled cheese sandwich by replacing the American cheese with Gouda.

LUNCH
Ming Tsai, host of Simply Ming

Tomato and Gouda Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Grilled cheese sandwiches are delectable when topped with tomatoes sautéed in olive oil. This technique not only makes them taste better but also reaps the most health benefits. Studies have shown that cooked tomatoes have more healthful antioxidants than raw ones.

What you'll need

1 medium vine-ripened tomato, cut into 1/4-inch-thick slices

3 ounces Gouda

4 slices whole wheat bread

1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil, plus more for brushing the bread

Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper

Recipe

Serves 2

1. In a large sauté pan over medium-high heat, add the oil and swirl to coat. When the oil is hot, add the tomato slices and season with salt and pepper. Cook until softened, 1 to 2 minutes per side. Transfer the tomatoes to a plate.

2. Brush the bread on both sides with the oil. Set 2 or 3 tomato slices onto 2 of the bread slices. Grate Gouda over the tomatoes and top with the remaining bread.

3. Wipe out the sauté pan and place it over medium-high heat. When the pan is hot, add the sandwiches; cook until the bread is golden brown, about 2 to 3 minutes. Turn the sandwiches over and grill to brown on the other side, another 2 to 3 minutes. Serve immediately.

Nutrients per serving: 365 calories, 17g protein, 32g carbohydrates, 5g fiber, 21g fat (9g saturated fat), 49mg cholesterol, 672mg sodium