TOASTED TOMATO-BASIL SANDWICH

Toasted Tomato-Basil Sandwich image

Yield makes 4 sandwiches

Number Of Ingredients 8

1/4 cup Basic Mayonnaise (page 234) or any all-natural mayonnaise
1 1/2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
2 dashes Tabasco or other hot sauce
8 slices hearty artisanal white bread
4 ounces semihard cheese (page 23), cut into 8 thin slices
2 tomatoes, sliced 1/4-inch thick
12 fresh basil leaves
2 ounces semisoft cheese (page 23), cut into 8 thin slices

Steps:

In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, mustard, and Tabasco sauce until fully combined.
To assemble the sandwiches, spread half of the mayonnaise mixture on 4 slices of bread. Layer 2 slices semihard cheese, 2 slices tomato, 3 basil leaves, and 2 slices semisoft cheese on top of each piece of bread. Spread the remaining 4 slices bread and place them, mayonnaise side down, on top of the cheese slices.
Heat a large skillet over medium heat and put the sandwiches in the pan. Cook until the cheese has melted and the bread is golden brown, about 3 minutes per side. Serve warm.
The spread will keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. (If you are using store-bought mayonnaise, the spread can be stored for up to 1 month.)