Smoky Cherry and Cheddar Panini Recipe: Sweet-Savory Grilled Sandwich

Sharp cheddar and a roasted smoky cherry spread come together to make a grown-up grilled cheese. The cherry spread is roasted until the fruit breaks down and the flavors concentrate, then it’s paired with cheddar for a sweet-savory, slightly smoky sandwich.

Ingredients

For the roasted smoky cherry spread

• 4 cups halved, pitted fresh cherries*
• 1/4 cup orange juice
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

For each panini

• 2 slices sourdough or a hearty whole-grain bread
• 2 slices medium to thickly sliced sharp cheddar
• About 1/4 of the smoky cherry spread per sandwich

Instructions

Preheat the oven to 450°F (230°C). In a 9 x 13-inch baking dish, combine the cherries, orange juice, lemon juice, dried thyme, smoked paprika, and salt. Roast, stirring every 10–12 minutes, until the cherries begin to break down and the liquid has thickened slightly, about 35–45 minutes. Stir well and press with the back of a wooden spoon to help the cherries break down into a jam-like consistency.

Preheat a panini press or a skillet. Spread the cherry mixture on one slice of bread, top with sliced cheddar, and finish with the other slice of bread. If using a panini press, cook until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted. If using a skillet, cook over medium heat for a few minutes per side, pressing gently with a spatula or a pan, until the cheese is fully melted and the bread is crisp. Serve warm.