Grilled Gruyere cheese with onion sandwiches

Isn’t it nice to have a few really easy meals right before Christmas when you’re so rushed? But you still want them to be tasty and comforting, even if they’re easy. So how about this? Take the humble grilled cheese sandwich, and elevate it to a new art form! That’s what my husband and I think of these sandwiches. You can leave out all the extra goodies if the kiddies only like them traditional. I’m also thinking that the next time we grill, I’m going to construct these on a long loaf and wrap them in foil in order to do them panini style!

Easy to make in under thirty minutes, even if you do have to grate the cheese! Don’t be lazy and slice it…it’s much better grated and mixed with the other ingredients.

Grilled Gruyere Cheese with Onion Sandwiches

Olive oil
Large red onion, cut into rounds
1/2 to 3/4 lb of Gruyere cheese, grated
8 large fresh basil leaves, chopped
1 T balsamic vinegar
Salt and pepper
8 thick slices of Italian bread (or more)

Heat olive oil in a large heavy skillet and saute the onions until well-cooked. Scrape into bowl with cheese through salt and pepper. Mix well. Divide up among 4 sandwiches. Add more oil to the skillet and grill each sandwich on medium low heat, flipping once. Cut in half to serve.

Image: Cyndi Lavin