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Grilled Goat Cheese Sandwiches With Fig and Honey

The first time I tasted this combination of flavors, I was backpacking through Morocco. At a small, bustling market in Marrakech, a vendor offered me a warm, crusty flatbread smeared with creamy goat cheese, drizzled with local honey, and studded with sweet figs. The explosion of sweet, savory, and earthy notes was an awakening. This recipe, though adapted for a more readily available sandwich, captures that same magical balance. It’s a reminder that simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, can create extraordinary experiences.

Recipe Overview

Prep Time: 8 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 18 minutes
Servings: 4
Dietary Type: Vegetarian

Ingredients

2 teaspoons honey
1/4 teaspoon grated lemon rind
4 ounces goat cheese
8 slices cinnamon raisin bread
2 tablespoons fig preserves
2 teaspoons basil, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon margarine, to coat bread (or cooking spray)
1 teaspoon powdered sugar

Equipment Needed

Large nonstick skillet
Small bowl
Butter knife or spreader
Weight (cast iron skillet or heavy pan)

Instructions

In a small bowl, combine the honey, grated lemon rind, and goat cheese. Stir until thoroughly blended and smooth. The honey will help soften the goat cheese, making it easier to spread.
Spread approximately 1 tablespoon of the goat cheese mixture evenly onto each of 4 slices of the cinnamon raisin bread. Ensure the mixture reaches the edges for a flavorful bite every time.
Evenly distribute 1 1/2 teaspoons of fig preserves over the goat cheese on each of the 4 bread slices. Follow this with 1/2 teaspoon of thinly sliced basil per slice, sprinkling it gently over the preserves. The basil adds a fresh, aromatic counterpoint to the sweetness of the fig and honey.
Top each of the prepared bread slices with one of the remaining slices of cinnamon raisin bread, creating 4 sandwiches.
Lightly coat the outside of each sandwich with margarine. You can either spread the margarine thinly with a knife or use cooking spray for a lighter option. Ensure even coverage for a golden-brown, crispy crust.
Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. The skillet needs to be hot enough to toast the bread but not so hot that it burns before the cheese warms through.
Add 2 sandwiches to the hot skillet, being careful not to overcrowd the pan.
Place a weight on top of the sandwiches as they cook. A cast iron skillet or another heavy pan works perfectly for this, pressing the sandwiches down gently to flatten them slightly. This helps create even contact with the skillet surface, ensuring uniform toasting and melting of the cheese.
Cook the sandwiches for approximately 3 minutes on each side, or until the bread is lightly toasted and golden brown. Keep the weight on top of the sandwiches as they cook. Monitor closely to prevent burning, adjusting the heat if necessary. The goat cheese should be warm and slightly softened.
Repeat the cooking process with the remaining 2 sandwiches.
Once all the sandwiches are grilled to golden perfection, remove them from the skillet and place them on a cutting board.
Before serving, lightly sprinkle the sandwiches with powdered sugar. This adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful visual appeal.
Cut each sandwich in half (optional) and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Tricks

For a more intense fig flavor, consider using fig jam instead of fig preserves.
If you don’t have fresh basil, a pinch of dried basil can be used, but the fresh herb adds a brighter flavor.
Experiment with different types of bread! Challah, brioche, or even sourdough can all be delicious alternatives to cinnamon raisin bread.
To prevent the bread from burning, monitor the heat closely. If the bread is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to medium-low.
For a richer flavor, use butter instead of margarine to coat the bread.
If you don’t have a heavy pan to press the sandwiches, you can use a spatula to gently press down on them as they cook.

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve these grilled goat cheese sandwiches immediately while they are warm and the cheese is melted and gooey. They pair beautifully with a simple green salad or a bowl of tomato soup for a complete meal.

Leftover sandwiches are best stored in the refrigerator, wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container. They will keep for up to 2 days. To reheat, you can toast them in a toaster oven or reheat them in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Be careful not to overheat them, as the bread can become dry. Reheating in a skillet with a little butter can help restore some of the crispness.

These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh and are not ideal for freezing.

Nutritional Information

Nutrient	Amount per Serving	% Daily Value
Calories	311.6 kcal	N/A
Calories from Fat	122 g	39%
Total Fat	13.6 g	20%
Saturated Fat	7 g	35%
Cholesterol	22.4 mg	7%
Sodium	345.6 mg	14%
Total Carbohydrate	38.2 g	12%
Dietary Fiber	2.4 g	9%
Sugars	11.9 g	47%
Protein	10.3 g	20%

Note: Nutritional information is an estimate and may vary based on specific ingredients and serving sizes.

Variations & Substitutions

Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the goat cheese mixture for a hint of heat.
Savory Herb Blend: Use a mix of fresh thyme and rosemary instead of basil for a more earthy flavor.
Fruit Variations: Experiment with different fruit preserves, such as apricot, raspberry, or pear.
Cheese Alternatives: If you’re not a fan of goat cheese, try using brie or cream cheese instead.
Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of this recipe.
Nutty Addition: Add a sprinkle of chopped walnuts or pecans to the goat cheese mixture for added texture and flavor.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Q: Can I make these sandwiches ahead of time?
A: You can assemble the sandwiches ahead of time, but it’s best to grill them just before serving for the best flavor and texture. You can prepare the goat cheese mixture in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Q: What if I don’t have fig preserves?
A: You can substitute fig jam or another type of fruit preserve, such as apricot or raspberry.

Q: Can I use different types of bread?
A: Absolutely! Challah, brioche, or even sourdough bread would all be delicious alternatives to cinnamon raisin bread.

Q: How do I prevent the sandwiches from sticking to the skillet?
A: Make sure to use a nonstick skillet and lightly coat the outside of the bread with margarine or cooking spray. Also, ensure the skillet is properly heated before adding the sandwiches.

Q: Can I add other ingredients to the sandwich?
A: Of course! Consider adding some prosciutto, caramelized onions, or a drizzle of balsamic glaze for added flavor and complexity.

Final Thoughts

This grilled goat cheese sandwich with fig and honey is a delightful combination of flavors and textures that’s perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or even a sophisticated snack. The creamy goat cheese, sweet fig preserves, and fragrant basil create a harmonious blend that will tantalize your taste buds. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different variations and substitutions to create your own unique version of this delicious sandwich. I encourage you to try this recipe and share your feedback – and maybe even pair it with a crisp glass of Sauvignon Blanc! Happy cooking!

Grilled Goat Cheese Sandwiches With Fig and Honey Recipe