15 Memorial Day Cookout Recipes to Wow Your Guests

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Roasted Tomato Caprese Sandwich

Fresh mozzarella and roasted tomato on a bed of zesty pesto is the perfect medley of summer flavors. Adding a Caprese sandwich to your Memorial Day menu is a simple and satisfying way to please your guests. Feel free to customize this recipe by adding avocado or prosciutto!

Ingredients (for 2 sandwiches):

• 1 large ripe tomato, sliced
• 1 ball fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
• 2 tbsp balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction
• 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 4 slices of crusty bread (such as ciabatta or baguette)
• Pesto sauce
• Mixed greens
• Olive oil (for roasting)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the tomato and place the slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle olive oil over the tomato slices and season with salt and pepper. Roast for about 15-20 min., or until the tomatoes are softened and slightly caramelized. Remove from the oven and let cool slightly.
3. Wash and dry the fresh basil leaves and mixed greens.
4. Lay out the slices of crusty bread on a clean surface.
5. Drizzle the balsamic glaze or balsamic reduction evenly over two slices of bread.
6. Drizzle the extra-virgin olive oil evenly over the other two slices of bread. Spread a thin layer of pesto sauce.
7. On the slices of bread with the balsamic glaze, layer the mixed greens, mozzarella slices, roasted tomato slices, and then the fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
   
8. Place the remaining slices of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
9. Serve immediately, whole or sliced in half, depending on your preference. Enjoy!