Mushroom, Spinach, and Fontina Panini

(from saymyname’s recipe box)

Serves 2 people

Categories: Grilled Sandwich, Main Dish, Mushrooms, Vegetarian

Ingredients

  • 2 1/2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 4 ounces mixed mushrooms, brushed clean and sliced (mixed wild and cultivated mushrooms)
  • 2 tablespoons finely chopped shallots
  • 2 tablespoons cognac
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh tarragon
  • salt
  • fresh ground black pepper
  • 4 slices crusty country bread (each slice 1/2 inch thick)
  • 3 ounces very thinly sliced Fontina cheese
  • 1 cup baby spinach leaves

Directions

  1. In a saucepan, melt 1 1/2 tablespoons butter over med-high heat; add in mushrooms and shallots; saute until mushrooms are softened and release their juices, 3-5 minutes.

  2. Continue to cook, stirring often, until most of the liquid is absorbed, 2-3 minutes longer.

  3. Stir in the Cognac, chopped tarragon, and salt and pepper to taste.

  4. Cook/stir, for 1 minute; let cool slightly.

  5. Preheat the sandwich grill; melt the remaining 1 tablespoon butter in a small saucepan over med-high heat.

  6. Place bread slices on a work surface and brush 1 side of each with the melted butter.

  7. Turn and layer 1/4 of the cheese, half of the mushrooms, and half of the spinach on the unbuttered side of two of the bread slices.

  8. Divide the remaining cheese on top; place the remaining 2 bread slices on top, buttered sides up, and press to pack gently.

  9. Place the panini in the grill; close the top plate, and cook until the bread is golden and toasted, the spinach is wilted, and the cheese is melted, 3-5 minutes; serve immediately.

Email to a friend | Print this recipe | Back