Balsamic Berry Vegan Grilled Cheese – DrNewMed Healthy Recipes for Healthy Eating

With this simple Caprese-inspired blackberry grilled cheese, you can give a grilled cheese sandwich a unique twist. For this gourmet take on a traditional melt, we’re using goat cheese, mozzarella, lots of basil, and fresh blackberries.

Ingredients

For the Balsamic Berries

1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon maple syrup or agave nectar

For the Vegan Cheese

1 cup raw cashews (soaked in water for a few hours or overnight, then drained)
1/4 cup nutritional yeast
1 tablespoon lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
Salt and pepper to taste
Water as needed for blending

For the Grilled Cheese

8 slices whole grain bread
Balsamic berry mixture
Vegan cheese mixture
Vegan butter or oil for grilling

Instructions

Prepare the Balsamic Berries

In a small saucepan, combine the mixed berries, balsamic vinegar, and maple syrup.
Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the berries break down and the mixture thickens slightly (about 5-7 minutes).
Remove from heat and set aside.

Prepare the Vegan Cheese

In a food processor or high-speed blender, combine the soaked cashews, nutritional yeast, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
Blend until smooth, adding water as needed to achieve a creamy consistency.

Assemble and Grill

Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
Take a slice of bread and spread a layer of the vegan cheese mixture on one side.
Spoon a layer of the balsamic berry mixture on top of the cheese.
Top with another slice of bread to form a sandwich.
Spread a thin layer of vegan butter or oil on the outside of the sandwich.
Place the sandwich on the heated skillet or griddle and cook until golden brown and crispy on both sides (about 3-4 minutes per side).

Serve