A quick, delicious, and versatile recipe that’s perfect for breakfast, lunch, or a satisfying snack. Fully customizable with whatever veggies you have on hand!
Basic Recipe
Ingredients (for 2 generous toasts):
· 2 thick slices of sturdy bread (sourdough, whole grain, or artisan bread work best)
· 1 cup shredded melting cheese (cheddar, mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or a blend)
· ½ cup mixed vegetables, finely chopped (bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, spinach, tomatoes)
· 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
· 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
· Salt and black pepper to taste
· Optional enhancements:
· Pinch of red pepper flakes
· Fresh herbs (parsley, chives, or basil)
· Sauce: pesto, marinara, or spicy mayo
Instructions:
- Prep Veggies: Heat butter/oil in a small pan over medium heat. Sauté your chosen veggies until softened (3-5 minutes). Add garlic in the last 30 seconds if using. Season with salt and pepper.
- Prepare Bread: Toast bread lightly under a broiler or in a toaster until just golden (this prevents sogginess).
- Assemble: Top each toast with:
· A thin spread of optional sauce
· Half of the sautéed veggies
· A generous handful of shredded cheese, covering veggies completely - Melt Cheese: Place toasts on a baking sheet. Broil on high for 2-4 minutes until cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Watch closely to prevent burning!
- Finish: Sprinkle with fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of olive oil. Let cool for 1 minute before cutting.
Popular Flavor Variations:
- Mediterranean Veggie Toast
· Veggies: Cherry tomatoes, spinach, red onion
· Cheese: Feta + mozzarella blend
· Add: Kalamata olives, sprinkle of oregano
· Finish: Drizzle of balsamic glaze
- Mexican-Style Toast
· Veggies: Bell peppers, corn, black beans, jalapeño
· Cheese: Pepper Jack or cheddar
· Add: Season with cumin and chili powder
· Finish: Top with avocado slices, cilantro, and salsa
- Mushroom & Herb Toast
· Veggies: Sliced mushrooms, thyme
· Cheese: Gruyère or Swiss
· Add: Sauté with a splash of white wine
· Finish: Truffle oil and fresh chives
- Caprese-Style Toast
· Veggies: Sliced tomatoes, fresh basil
· Cheese: Fresh mozzarella slices
· Add: Brush bread with pesto before topping
· Finish: Balsamic reduction and flaky sea salt
Pro Tips for Perfect Cheesy Veggie Toast:
✅ Prevent Sogginess: Lightly toast bread first, and ensure veggies are well-drained/sautéed to remove excess moisture.
✅ Cheese Choice: A blend of cheeses works best—one for melt (mozzarella) and one for flavor (cheddar, Parmesan).
✅ Even Melting: Cover veggies completely with cheese to act as a moisture barrier.
✅ Broiler vs. Oven: Broiler is fastest but requires watching. Oven at 425°F (220°C) takes 5-8 minutes.
✅ Make it a Meal: Add a fried egg on top, serve with soup or salad, or pair with roasted potatoes.
Dietary Adaptations:
· Vegan: Use vegan cheese shreds and nutritional yeast. Sauté veggies in olive oil.
· Gluten-Free: Use your favorite GF bread.
· Lower-Carb: Use thick slices of eggplant, portobello mushroom caps, or low-carb bread as the base.
· Higher Protein: Add cottage cheese into the veggie mix, or top with a fried egg.
This is the ultimate clean-out-the-fridge meal—quick, satisfying, and endlessly customizable. Perfect for any time of day!