Craving something sweet, savory, and utterly comforting? Ditch the boring PB&J and elevate your lunch game with this incredible grilled sandwich. Imagine warm, gooey peanut butter, sweet banana and strawberries, and a hint of melted chocolate all tucked between two slices of golden, crispy cinnamon-raisin bread. It’s a game-changer!
Ingredients
• 1/4 cup / 64 g peanut butter
• 8 slices whole grain cinnamon-raisin bread
• 1 medium banana, cut into 16 slices
• 4 fresh strawberries, each cut into 4 slices
• 4 teaspoons / 12 g grated bittersweet or semisweet chocolate
• 1 tablespoon / 14 g butter
Instructions
1. Spread peanut butter evenly onto one side of each of the 8 bread slices. On 4 of the slices, layer the banana and strawberry slices, then sprinkle with the grated chocolate. Top with the remaining 4 bread slices, ensuring the peanut butter sides are facing down onto the fruit.
2. In a large skillet or on a griddle, melt the butter over medium heat. Carefully place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes, or until the bread is crisp and golden brown, flipping once halfway through.
Nutritional Information
• Per Sandwich: 375 calories, 16g total fat (5g saturated fat), 8mg cholesterol, 374mg sodium, 49g carbohydrates, 8g fiber, 13g protein.
Pro Tips
• If your skillet isn’t large enough, cook the sandwiches in two batches, using half the butter for each batch.
• For an extra decadent treat, swap the grated chocolate for a thin layer of chocolate-hazelnut spread.
• Use a different nut butter like almond or cashew butter for a unique flavor profile.
• A panini press works wonderfully for this recipe, creating beautiful grill marks and ensuring even cooking.
FAQ
Q: Can I make this grilled sandwich vegan
A: Absolutely! To make this a vegan grilled sandwich, simply use a plant-based butter or coconut oil for grilling and ensure your bittersweet or semisweet chocolate is dairy-free. Most whole grain cinnamon-raisin breads are vegan, but always check the label for milk or eggs.
Q: Is this vegetarian sandwich a good source of protein
A: Yes, this sandwich provides a solid 13 grams of protein per serving, primarily from the peanut butter and whole grain bread. This makes it a satisfying and protein-rich vegetarian meal that will keep you full and energized.
Q: What can I use instead of peanut butter for a nut-free version
A: For a delicious nut-free alternative, you can use sunflower seed butter or tahini. Both pair wonderfully with the fruit and chocolate for a savory-sweet flavor, making it a safe and tasty option for those with nut allergies.
Q: How can I make this sweet vegetarian sandwich healthier
A: To make it healthier, choose a natural peanut butter with no added sugar, use a 100% whole-grain bread, and you can omit the chocolate to reduce the overall sugar content while still enjoying a delicious, fruit-sweetened treat.
