For some reason, lunch has always been my least favorite meal. Maybe it’s because I’ve never been a big sandwich fan. Maybe it’s because we’re usually on such a time crunch. Whatever the cause might be, every day the lunch hour hits, and it sends me into panic mode. Because I work from home most days, I feel a little guilty not taking advantage of having a fully stocked kitchen 20 paces from my desk. I don’t have to brownbag it or grab something from the vending machine, so I should take the time to whip up something a little special, right? So. Much. Pressure.
It’s completely self-inflicted, I know. But to help squelch my lunchtime stress, I’ve been experimenting with recipes that are fast and easy but still homemade (so basically a little more thoughtful and a little less yeah-sure-that-sounds-OK). This mozzarella basil toast is basically a glorified grilled cheese that forgot to close up shop; the broiler makes the bread perfectly crispy, and the mozzarella and basil are like flavor BFFs. Oh, and it takes about 12 minutes from start to finish. Stress, be gone!
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• 4 small slices of bread (We love the sourdough wheat from Uprise Bakery in Columbia, but any good, thick, fresh-baked bread will do to trick.)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 – 4 leaves of fresh basil, julliened (about 1/2 teaspoon dried basil will work in a pinch)
• 2 – 4 ounces soft mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced
• salt and pepper to taste
Preheat broiler. Place slices of bread on a baking sheet, and brush the tops with olive oil. Sprinkle with kosher salt (about 1/8 teaspoon for four pieces). Layer mozzarella evenly on bread. Top with basil and black pepper. Toast in broiler for 5 to 10 minutes (until cheese is bubbling and golden brown).
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So what are you lunching on today? Do you brownbag it for work or grab a bite on the go? Hope whatever you’re noshing is delicious and stress-free!
XO,
Katrina