Mozzarella and Feta Pita Grilled Cheese Recipe
This Mozzarella and Feta Pita Grilled Cheese is a flavorful twist on the classic grilled cheese sandwich, combining creamy feta, fresh mozzarella, wilted spinach, basil pesto, and sundried tomatoes all tucked inside warm, crispy pita pockets. Perfectly grilled to achieve a crisp exterior with melted cheeses inside, it makes a delicious and satisfying vegetarian meal or snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 8 minutes
- Total Time: 18 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Vegetables & Greens
- 3 heaping cups baby spinach
- 1/3 cup sundried tomatoes packed in oil, drained and chopped
Cheeses
- 3 ounces feta cheese (more as needed)
- 3 to 4 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced into ¼-inch slices (more as needed)
Other
- 4 pita pockets from 2 pita loaves, cut in half
- ¼ to 1/3 cup basil pesto
- Extra virgin olive oil (about 2 tablespoons for sautéing and brushing)
Instructions
- Sautee the Spinach: Heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil in a grill pan over medium-high heat until shimmering. Add the baby spinach and sauté for about 2 minutes, tossing frequently until wilted. Transfer the spinach to a plate and turn off the heat.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Open the pita pockets carefully—warming them slightly first helps prevent tearing. Spread feta cheese evenly on the bottom side of each pita half, followed by a thin layer of basil pesto. Add a spoonful of the wilted spinach on top, then layer slices of fresh mozzarella and sprinkle chopped sundried tomatoes.
- Grill the Pitas: Reheat the grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush both sides of the assembled pita sandwiches lightly with extra virgin olive oil. Place them in the hot pan, ensuring good contact with the surface. Cook for 1 to 2 minutes on one side, pressing down gently with the back of a spatula to compact the sandwich. Flip carefully and cook for another 2 minutes, pressing again, until the bread is crisp with nice char marks and the mozzarella has melted. To help melt the cheese thoroughly without burning the bread, you may cover the pan briefly. Adjust heat as necessary.
- Serve: Remove the grilled pita sandwiches immediately from the pan and serve hot for the best flavor and texture experience.
Notes
- Warming the pita before opening helps prevent tearing.
- Applying pressure with a spatula during grilling ensures the cheese melts nicely and the sandwich holds together.
- Using a lid briefly during grilling can help melt the cheese without overcooking the bread.
- Adjust olive oil quantity according to preference for crispiness and flavor.
- Can be served with a side salad or soup for a complete meal.
