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Food

PB & J Grilled Cheese

Makes 4.

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PB & J Grilled Cheese
Teaming up peanut butter with creamy brie cheese is a surefire way to reinvent the humble grilled sandwich. Add an easy DIY fig jam, and you have a handheld meal that will appeal to all generations of a household. Extra fig jam can be spread over toast or even grilled meats.

Nutrition bonus

Peanut butter is a standout source of heart-healthy monounsaturated fat, while figs are a surprising source of bone-friendly calcium.

Low and slow

By using relatively low heat to make grilled cheese, you’re better guaranteed a golden, not burnt, crust. Also, melt the butter directly in the skillet for a quicker sandwich if you’ve neglected to let the butter sit at room temperature until it’s spreadable.

Ingredients

  •  
  • 1/2 cup (125 mL) dried figs, stems removed
  • 1 tsp (5 mL) lemon zest
  • 1/4 tsp (1 mL) cinnamon
  • 4 Tbsp (60 mL) natural peanut butter
  • 8 slices crusty whole grain bread
  • 4 oz (113 g) brie cheese
  • 2 cups (500 mL) arugula
  • 1 Tbsp (15 mL) unsalted butter

Nutrition

Per serving:

  • calories 401
  • protein 18g
  • fat 21g
    • saturated fat 9g
    • trans fat 0g
  • carbohydrates 39g
    • sugars 14g
    • fibre 7g
  • sodium 448mg

Directions

01
Place figs in blender or food processor container, cover with 1 cup (250 mL) boiled water and let soak for 30 minutes. Add lemon zest, cinnamon, and a pinch of salt to container and blend until slightly chunky. Let cool.
02
For each sandwich, spread 1 Tbsp (15 mL) peanut butter on a slice of bread. Top peanut butter with 2 Tbsp (30 mL) fig jam, 1 oz (28 g) brie cheese, and 1/2 cup (125 mL) arugula. Top with second slice of bread and press down gently. Repeat with remaining ingredients for additional sandwiches.
03
Heat butter in skillet over medium-low heat. Heat sandwiches until bread is golden on both sides and cheese has melted, about 3 minutes per side.

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