Grilled Pimiento Cheese Sandwiches Apple Matchstick Salad

This delightful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich combines the creamy richness of pimiento cheese with the crisp freshness of an apple matchstick salad. The sharpness of cheddar in the pimiento cheese is perfectly balanced by the sweet and tangy crunch of fresh apples, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any time of year. Whether you’re enjoying a cozy lunch or a simple dinner, these grilled sandwiches with a refreshing side salad are sure to please.

Ingredients

For the Pimiento Cheese:

• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, grated
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
• 1/4 cup diced pimientos
• 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Sandwiches:

• 8 slices of sourdough bread
• 4 tablespoons butter, softened

For the Apple Matchstick Salad:

• 2 large apples, such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

1. Make the Pimiento Cheese:

1. In a mixing bowl, combine the cheddar cheese, mayonnaise, cream cheese, diced pimientos, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2. Stir until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

2. Prepare the Apple Matchstick Salad:

1. Cut the apples into matchstick-sized pieces and place them in a bowl.
2. Add the lemon juice to prevent browning, and toss to coat.
3. Add the red onion, parsley, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss the salad to combine.

3. Assemble and Cook the Sandwiches:

1. Spread a generous amount of pimiento cheese on one side of four slices of bread.
2. Top with the remaining four slices of bread to form sandwiches.
3. Spread butter on the outside of each sandwich.

4. Grill the Sandwiches:

1. Heat a skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Grill the sandwiches for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

5. Serve:

1. Serve the grilled pimiento cheese sandwiches hot with the apple matchstick salad on the side.
2. Enjoy this delicious combination of creamy, tangy, and crunchy flavors!