Grilled Heirloom Tomato and Mozzarella Sandwiches with Green Heirloom Tomato Gazpacho

A sophisticated summer meal featuring grilled sandwiches made with smoky mozzarella and fresh heirloom tomatoes, served alongside a refreshing green tomato gazpacho with Marcona almonds. The combination creates a perfect balance of warm, melty sandwiches and cool, crisp soup.

4 servings
3 hr 18 min

Ingredients

  • 1 pound ripe green heirloom tomatoes, cored, cut into large chunks
  • 1 piece unpeeled English hothouse cucumber
  • ½ cup chopped onion
  • ½ cup chopped celery
  • ½ cup salted roasted Marcona almonds
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • 2 cloves large garlic cloves
  • 1 tablespoon Champagne vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt
  • 8 slices brioche or challah
  • 1 package smoked mozzarella cheese
  • 2 large heirloom tomatoes
  • ¼ cup butter

Cooking Instructions

  1. 1.

    Combine first 8 ingredients and 1 teaspoon coarse salt in processor. Blend to almost smooth puree (some texture should remain). Season with pepper and more salt, if desired. Transfer to medium bowl. Cover; chill at least 3 hours and up to 1 day.

    180 min

  2. 2.

    Cut each bread slice into rectangle (about 4 1/2 x 2 1/2 inches). Arrange 4 bread rectangles on work surface. Top bread with half of cheese slices (trimming to fit) and 2 tomato slices. Sprinkle tomatoes with salt and pepper. Top with remaining cheese, then remaining bread; press to compact.

    10 min

  3. 3.

    Melt butter in large skillet over medium heat. Add sandwiches. Cover and cook until bread is golden, turning once, about 3 minutes per side. Transfer sandwiches to paper towels. Cut each sandwich in half.

    6 min

  4. 4.

    Divide gazpacho among 4 bowls; place on plates. Arrange sandwiches alongside.

    2 min

Recommended to use Recipe Notes to manage your recipes