April Showers Bring...National Grilled Cheese Month

Seems like everything gets its "own month" dedication these days. And apparently the grilled cheese sandwich takes center stage for April. That’s right, April is National Grilled Cheese Month. Who knew? Not I...but Grilled Cheese month sounds good to me... after all, who doesn't like a good grilled cheese?

For many of us, the grilled cheese sandwich was a staple of childhood, served warm out of mom’s pan with a side of tomato soup. Today, the grilled cheese has risen to a new level, reinvented by even the most celebrated chefs, the grilled cheese has long-since outgrown its white bread and processed cheese days.

Some keys I've found to making the perfect grilled cheese....

• Just say NO to the microwave! Yes, I know–it's the fastest way to make them, but it just doesn't have the same crisp a pan-fried grilled cheese does.

• You've turned away from the microwave–now turn away from the toaster. Toasting your bread in a pan or on a griddle with a bit of oil or butter makes the perfect crispy-on-the-outside, soft-and-warm-on-the-inside toast as the foundation for your perfect sandwich.

• A grilled cheese doesn't have to start with plain white bread. Pick your favorite type (I personally think sourdough makes the best grilled cheese base) and start toasting. And, yes, as soon as you turn your back on the bread, it's likely to burn.

• Try some different cheeses. Grilled cheese doesn't have to mean that same old yellow American cheese. Try some colby, provolone or Swiss–don't be afraid to toss on your favorites.

• Add some extras. Nearly anything can be added to a grilled cheese (as long as you don't add too many toppings, the cheese will hold it all together).

• To add an extra punch–instead of using butter or margarine on the outside of the bread...try mayonnaise (just don’t tell my kids).  The mayo is an oil base and will toast just like butter.

To celebrate this important culinary event, here are some recipes and ideas for delicious gourmet grilled cheese sandwiches:

A Gourmet Original
Italian Grilled Cheese
Cinnamon Apple Grilled Cheese
Mexican Grilled Cheese
Tex-Mex Tomato Soup

Now, what's your Ultimate Grilled Cheese Sandwich?