Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe, prepare to embark on a culinary journey that redefines comfort food as you know it. Forget everything you thought you knew about the humble grilled cheese sandwich, because today, we’re transforming it into an extraordinary gourmet experience.
The classic grilled cheese, a timeless emblem of simplicity and warmth, has long held a cherished spot in hearts worldwide. It’s a dish synonymous with cozy evenings and comforting lunches, a true American staple that evokes feelings of nostalgia and contentment. But what if we told you that this beloved staple could be elevated to an entirely new level of deliciousness, introducing surprising layers of flavor and texture that will leave you utterly captivated?
This innovative twist brings together the familiar savory delight of gooey, melting cheese with the sweet, spiced richness of homemade apple butter. The resulting combination is nothing short of magical: a harmonious balance of sweet, tart, and savory notes, perfectly encased between two slices of golden, crispy, buttered bread. The crunch of the exterior, the irresistible creaminess of the cheese, and the smooth, fruit-filled burst of apple butter create an unforgettable sensation with every single bite.
I’m incredibly excited to share this Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe with you, promising to turn a simple meal into an impressive culinary statement. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, yet delivers a gourmet experience that is both sophisticated and deeply satisfying. Get ready to fall in love with your new favorite sandwich!
Ingredients:
- For the Bread:
- 8 slices of good quality, sturdy bread. I personally adore a thick-cut sourdough or a brioche-style bread for this recipe. It needs to hold up to the fillings and butter wonderfully.
- For the Cheese Symphony:
- 4 ounces (about 1 cup) sharp white cheddar cheese, thinly sliced or grated. Its piquant notes truly cut through the sweetness.
- 4 ounces (about 1 cup) creamy brie or camembert, rind removed if you prefer, then thinly sliced. This adds an incredible gooey, luxurious texture and a mild, earthy counterpoint.
- 2 ounces (about ½ cup) Gruyère cheese, grated or thinly sliced. For that nutty, complex depth that melts like a dream.
- For the Star Spread:
- ½ cup high-quality apple butter. Look for one with good spice notes and a rich, concentrated apple flavor. This is the heart of our “Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe.”
- For Grilling Perfection:
- 4-6 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened, or mayonnaise. I often use a mix of butter for flavor and a thin layer of mayo on the outside of the bread for an exceptionally golden, crispy crust.
- Optional Flavor Boosters (Highly Recommended!):
- 4 slices crispy cooked bacon, crumbled (optional, but a fantastic savory addition).
- ½ small red onion, very thinly sliced and perhaps lightly caramelized for a touch of savory sweetness.
- ¼ small crisp apple (like Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), very thinly sliced, for a fresh textural crunch.
- A pinch of fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped, for an aromatic herbaceous note.
- A tiny drizzle of balsamic glaze or hot honey, for serving.
Preparation – The Foundation of Flavor
Embarking on this culinary adventure to create our “Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe” starts with careful preparation of each component. This ensures that every element is ready to contribute its best to the final masterpiece.
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Gather and Prepare Your Cheese:
First things first, let’s get our cheese ready. I like to take my cheeses out of the fridge about 15-20 minutes before I plan to start assembling. Allowing the cheese to come closer to room temperature helps it melt more evenly and quickly, preventing a cold center while the outside of your bread gets too dark. For the sharp white cheddar and Gruyère, if you haven’t bought them pre-sliced, I recommend grating them or slicing them very thinly. Grating offers a more even melt, while thin slices provide a more distinct layer. For the brie, simply slice it into manageable pieces, removing the rind if that’s your preference. I usually leave a little bit of the rind on for extra flavor and structure, but it’s completely up to you!
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Slice Your Bread with Intention:
When selecting your bread, consider its density and crust. For a truly satisfying grilled cheese, I find that a good, sturdy bread works best. If you’re using a loaf, aim for slices that are about ½ to ¾ inch thick. Too thin, and it might not hold up to the fillings; too thick, and it can be hard to get the cheese perfectly melted without burning the bread. Evenly cut slices are crucial for even grilling and browning.
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Prepare Any Optional Flavor Boosters:
If you’re opting for any of my highly recommended flavor boosters, this is the time to get them ready. Believe me, these additions elevate the “Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe” to another level entirely.
- Crispy Bacon: Cook your bacon until it’s wonderfully crisp. I prefer to bake mine in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or pan-fry it until it’s shatteringly crisp. Once cooled, crumble it into small, bite-sized pieces. The salty, smoky crunch is a game-changer.
- Caramelized Red Onion: Thinly slice about ½ of a small red onion. In a small skillet over medium-low heat, with a tiny bit of butter or olive oil, slowly cook the onions until they are soft, translucent, and deeply golden brown. This process can take 15-20 minutes, but the sweet, savory depth it adds is well worth the time. Don’t rush this step; patience is key for truly caramelized onions.
- Thinly Sliced Apple: Using a mandoline or a very sharp knife, slice a crisp apple like a Honeycrisp or Granny Smith as thinly as possible. We’re talking almost paper-thin. These delicate slices will provide a fresh, vibrant crunch and a burst of tartness that beautifully complements the sweet apple butter and rich cheeses.
- Fresh Thyme: If using, gently wash and finely chop a small amount of fresh thyme leaves. A little goes a long way to add a subtle herbaceous aroma.
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Soften Your Butter:
Ensure your unsalted butter is softened to room temperature. This makes it much easier to spread evenly onto your bread slices, ensuring a uniform golden crust. If you’re using mayonnaise, no softening is needed, as it spreads beautifully straight from the jar.
Assembling Your Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese
This is where our ingredients start to come together, layer by delicious layer, transforming into the sandwich of our dreams. The order and intention behind each layer are crucial for maximum flavor and melting success.
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Butter the Bread:
Take two slices of your prepared bread for one sandwich. Lightly butter one side of each slice. This will be the outside of your sandwich. My secret for the ultimate golden-brown, crispy crust is to spread a very thin, even layer of mayonnaise on the outside of the bread instead of or in addition to butter. The oils in the mayonnaise prevent sticking and help create a beautifully uniform browning that butter sometimes struggles to achieve. So, spread that softened butter or mayo generously but not excessively; we want coverage, not a soggy bread.
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The First Cheese Layer:
Place one slice of bread, buttered-side down, onto a clean work surface. Layer half of your sharp white cheddar and half of your Gruyère evenly over the unbuttered side of this bread slice. The cheddar will provide a nice savory base, and the Gruyère will contribute its nutty notes and excellent melting properties. This initial cheese layer acts as a barrier, preventing the apple butter from making the bread soggy.
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Introduce the Apple Butter:
Now, gently spread a generous two tablespoons of your high-quality apple butter over the cheese layer. Don’t be shy here; this is our star ingredient! Try to spread it evenly but gently, ensuring you don’t push the cheese off. The rich, spiced sweetness of the apple butter is what makes this “Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe” so special.
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Add Your Optional Enhancements:
If you’ve prepared any of those wonderful optional additions, this is the perfect moment to incorporate them:
- Sprinkle half of the crumbled crispy bacon over the apple butter.
- Distribute half of the caramelized red onions.
- Arrange half of the thinly sliced crisp apple.
- A tiny pinch of fresh thyme leaves can also be added here for a subtle herbaceous lift.
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The Second Cheese Layer:
On top of the apple butter and any additions, layer half of your creamy brie. The brie will melt into a luxurious, gooey dream, beautifully mingling with the apple butter and other flavors. This layer of cheese on top of the apple butter also helps to “seal” it in, ensuring it doesn’t escape during grilling and contributes to a wonderfully integrated filling.
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Complete the Sandwich:
Finally, place the second slice of bread, buttered-side up, on top of your assembled layers. Gently press down on the sandwich to compact it slightly. Repeat this process for the remaining sandwiches.
The Grilling Process – Achieving Golden Perfection
The grilling stage is where magic happens. It’s a delicate balance of heat, patience, and visual cues to transform our humble ingredients into a golden, crispy, and gloriously gooey “Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese.”
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Preheat Your Pan:
Place a non-stick skillet or a cast-iron pan over medium-low heat. This is absolutely crucial. You want a gentle heat that allows the cheese to melt slowly and thoroughly without burning the bread. If the heat is too high, your bread will toast quickly, but your cheese will remain unmelted and cold in the center – a cardinal grilled cheese sin!
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Place the Sandwiches:
Once your pan is gently warmed (a drop of water should sizzle slightly and evaporate, or a pat of butter should melt slowly and evenly), carefully place your assembled sandwiches into the pan. Don’t overcrowd the pan; usually, one or two at a time works best, depending on the size of your skillet. Give them a little breathing room.
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The First Side – Cook Slowly:
Cook the sandwiches for about 4-6 minutes on the first side. This timing is a guideline; the real indicators are visual and aromatic. You’re looking for a beautiful, deep golden-brown crust. Resist the urge to constantly lift the sandwich to peek; consistent contact with the pan is key for even browning. You’ll start to notice the wonderful aromas of toasted bread and melting cheese filling your kitchen. If the bread seems to be browning too quickly, lower the heat slightly.
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Optional – The Press:
For an extra flat, crispy, and thoroughly melted sandwich, you can gently press down on the sandwiches with a spatula during cooking. Alternatively, place a slightly smaller pan or a heavy lid on top of the sandwiches. This increases surface contact and helps with even cooking and melting. However, don’t press too hard, or you’ll squeeze out all the delicious apple butter!
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Flip and Cook the Second Side:
Once the first side is perfectly golden, carefully flip the sandwiches using a wide spatula. Cook the second side for another 4-6 minutes, or until it matches the beautiful golden color of the first side, and, most importantly, the cheese inside is completely melted and gooey. You should see a bit of cheese starting to ooze out, and the bread should feel crisp to the touch.
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Check for Melt:
A good way to tell if your cheese is thoroughly melted is to gently press down on the top slice of bread. If it feels soft and gives easily, indicating a liquid interior, you’re likely good to go. If it still feels firm, give it another minute or two, perhaps lowering the heat slightly to prevent over-browning while allowing the internal warmth to do its job.
Serving and Savoring Your Culinary Creation
Once your “Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese” is grilled to golden perfection, the final steps are about presentation and enjoyment. This is where you get to admire your handiwork before diving into pure deliciousness.
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Rest Briefly:
Immediately transfer the hot grilled cheese sandwiches from the pan to a cutting board. I know, I know, it’s tempting to slice right away, but letting them rest for just 1-2 minutes allows the cheese to set slightly, preventing all the gooey goodness from oozing out excessively when you cut into it. It also gives the bread a moment to crisp up even further.
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Slice with Precision:
Using a sharp, serrated knife, slice each grilled cheese sandwich diagonally. A diagonal cut not only looks more appealing but also offers a larger surface area for dipping and makes the sandwich easier to handle. You’ll be rewarded with a beautiful cross-section revealing all those delicious layers of cheese, apple butter, and any optional additions.
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Garnish and Serve:
Arrange the halves on a serving plate. For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, you can sprinkle a few more fresh thyme leaves on top, or drizzle a tiny bit of balsamic glaze or hot honey just before serving. These small additions can truly elevate the experience of this “Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe.”
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Pairing Suggestions:
This sandwich is hearty enough to be a meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A bowl of warm tomato soup or a creamy butternut squash soup makes for a classic, comforting combination, perfect for a cozy evening.
Tips for the Ultimate Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Experience
To ensure every “Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe” you make is nothing short of spectacular, here are some of my favorite tips and tricks, along with ideas for variations.
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Experiment with Cheese Combinations:
While my suggested trio of sharp cheddar, brie, and Gruyère is fantastic, don’t be afraid to experiment! Other cheeses that pair wonderfully with apple butter include:
- Goat Cheese: Tangy and creamy, it offers a delightful contrast.
- Provolone or Fontina: Excellent melting cheeses with mild, nutty notes.
- Smoked Gouda: For a deeper, smoky flavor profile that plays well with the sweetness.
- Cream Cheese: A thin layer can add extra creaminess and a subtle tang.
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Bread Choices Matter:
The bread is the foundation. Beyond sourdough and brioche, consider these options:
- Challah: Sweet and rich, it’s wonderful with the apple butter.
- Rye Bread: For a more assertive, earthy flavor that stands up to the fillings.
- Whole Wheat or Multigrain: Adds a healthy, hearty chew and nutty flavor.
- Artisan White Bread: A classic for a reason, it toasts beautifully.
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Elevate Your Apple Butter:
If you have homemade apple butter, that’s fantastic! If using store-bought, look for high-quality brands with simple ingredients. You can also customize it: stir in a tiny pinch of cinnamon, nutmeg, or a dash of bourbon for an extra layer of flavor before spreading.
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Master the Heat:
This cannot be stressed enough: low and slow is the way to go for grilled cheese. Medium-low heat ensures that the bread toasts to a perfect golden brown without burning, while giving the cheese ample time to melt into a glorious, gooey consistency. If you rush it, you’ll end up with burnt bread and cold, unmelted cheese.
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Consider Compound Butter:
For an extra flavor boost, try mixing a tiny bit of fresh herbs (like thyme or sage) into your softened butter before spreading it on the bread. A pinch of garlic powder or smoked paprika in the butter can also add an interesting savory dimension.
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Add a Pickle:
For those who love a bit of tang to cut through richness, a thinly sliced pickle (like a cornichon or a sweet gherkin) added inside the sandwich, or served on the side, can be a surprisingly delicious counterpoint.
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Make it a Meal:
Don’t forget the classic accompaniments. A simple green salad, a cup of creamy tomato soup, or even a side of roasted sweet potato fries can turn this decadent sandwich into a full, satisfying meal.
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Storage and Reheating:
While grilled cheese is always best enjoyed fresh off the pan, if you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a dry skillet over medium-low heat until warmed through and crispy again. Avoid the microwave, as it will make the bread soggy.
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The Importance of Balance:
Remember that the “Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe” thrives on the balance of sweet, savory, tangy, and rich elements. Don’t overload your sandwich with too many ingredients, as this can make it difficult to cook evenly and lead to a messy eating experience. Focus on quality ingredients and thoughtful layering.
Conclusion:
And there you have it, friends! We’ve journeyed together through the simple yet profound magic of taking a classic comfort food and elevating it to something truly extraordinary. If you’ve been looking for a recipe that excites the palate and warms the soul in equal measure, then I can confidently say that this is it. Forget everything you thought you knew about grilled cheese; this creation is a revelation. The delightful contrast between the salty, melted cheese and the sweet, spiced apple butter is an experience you simply must try for yourself. It’s the kind of dish that prompts an immediate, “Wow, what is in this?” from anyone who takes a bite. The crispy, golden-brown exterior of the bread, achieved by that perfect buttering and grilling technique, gives way to a creamy, gooey interior, where the tangy sharpness of your chosen cheese dances beautifully with the rich, autumnal notes of homemade or high-quality apple butter. It’s truly a symphony of textures and flavors, an unexpected yet utterly harmonious blend that will leave you craving more long after the last bite.
I truly believe my Deliciously Unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese Recipe isn’t just a meal; it’s an adventure for your taste buds, a little moment of culinary daring that pays off spectacularly. It’s perfect for a cozy weekend lunch, a quick but satisfying dinner, or even a sophisticated appetizer when cut into smaller, elegant triangles. But don’t let our journey end with just the core recipe; the beauty of this dish lies in its incredible versatility. Consider pairing it with a steaming bowl of creamy tomato soup for the ultimate comforting experience – the soup’s acidity cuts through the richness of the sandwich wonderfully. Or, for a lighter touch, a crisp, peppery arugula salad dressed with a simple vinaigrette offers a refreshing counterpoint. For those seeking beverage pairings, a dry hard cider or even a chilled glass of sparkling apple juice would complement the flavors beautifully, echoing the apple notes in the butter.
Now, let’s talk variations, because this recipe is a fantastic canvas for your own creativity! Don’t be shy about experimenting with different cheeses. While a sharp cheddar or a creamy gouda works wonders, imagine the luxurious melt of brie, or the nutty notes of Gruyere. For an extra layer of gourmet flavor, I highly recommend adding thinly sliced, crispy bacon or prosciutto – the salty, smoky crunch adds another dimension that is simply irresistible. Caramelized onions are another fantastic addition, bringing a depth of sweet savoriness that melds perfectly with the apple butter. If you’re feeling adventurous, a sprinkle of fresh thyme or sage leaves cooked into the sandwich can introduce a lovely herbaceous aroma that elevates the entire dish. And the bread choice matters too! While a good artisan white or sourdough is excellent, consider using a hearty multigrain for added texture, or even a soft brioche for an extra touch of richness. For a slightly sweeter take, a dusting of cinnamon with your apple butter or even a thin slice of fresh apple can enhance those fruit flavors even further, creating a sandwich that leans more towards a dessert-like profile, perfect with a scoop of vanilla ice cream on the side!
So, my dear readers, I implore you: don’t just read about this culinary delight; go forth and make it! Gather your ingredients, butter that bread generously, and prepare to be amazed. This isn’t just another grilled cheese; it’s a memorable experience waiting to happen in your kitchen. I’m genuinely excited for you to discover the incredible flavors packed into every bite of this unique creation. Once you’ve whipped up your own masterpiece, please, please share your experience with us! We’d absolutely love to hear about your triumphs, your clever variations, and how this recipe stole a piece of your heart. Whether you stick to the script or get wonderfully creative, your culinary journey is a story worth telling. Happy cooking, and prepare to fall in love with your new favorite grilled cheese!
Apple Butter Grilled Cheese: A Unique Sweet & Savory Twist
Redefine comfort food with this deliciously unique Apple Butter Grilled Cheese. This innovative twist combines gooey, melting cheese with the sweet, spiced richness of apple butter, perfectly encased between two slices of golden, crispy bread. A harmonious balance of sweet, tart, and savory notes creates an unforgettable sensation with every bite.
Ingredients
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8 slices sturdy bread (sourdough or brioche)
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4 oz (1 cup) sharp white cheddar cheese, sliced/grated
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4 oz (1 cup) creamy brie or camembert, sliced
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2 oz (½ cup) Gruyère cheese, sliced/grated
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½ cup high-quality apple butter
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4-6 tbsp unsalted butter, softened OR mayonnaise
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4 slices crispy cooked beef bacon, crumbled (optional)
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½ small red onion, very thinly sliced (optional)
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¼ small crisp apple (Honeycrisp/Granny Smith), thinly sliced (optional)
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Pinch fresh thyme leaves, finely chopped (optional)
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Drizzle balsamic glaze OR hot honey, for serving (optional)
Instructions
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Step 1
Allow cheeses to reach room temperature (15-20 mins). Grate/thinly slice cheddar and Gruyère. Slice brie, removing rind if preferred. -
Step 2
Slice bread evenly, ½ to ¾ inch thick (if not pre-sliced). -
Step 3
Prepare optional boosters: Cook and crumble beef bacon. Caramelize thinly sliced red onion in a skillet (15-20 mins). Thinly slice crisp apple. Finely chop fresh thyme. -
Step 4
Ensure butter is softened for easy spreading or use mayonnaise. -
Step 5
For each sandwich: Butter one side of two bread slices (or spread with mayo). Place one slice, buttered-side down. Layer with half of the sharp cheddar and Gruyère. Spread 2 tbsp apple butter evenly over the cheese. -
Step 6
Add half of any optional beef bacon, caramelized onion, sliced apple, or thyme over the apple butter. -
Step 7
Top with half of the brie. Place the second bread slice, buttered-side up, on top. Gently press to compact. Repeat for remaining sandwiches. -
Step 8
Preheat a non-stick or cast-iron pan over medium-low heat. -
Step 9
Place sandwiches in the pan, don’t overcrowd. Cook for 4-6 minutes until deep golden-brown. Gently press with a spatula or lid if desired. -
Step 10
Flip and cook for another 4-6 minutes, until the second side is golden and cheese is completely melted and gooey. -
Step 11
Transfer to a cutting board and let rest for 1-2 minutes. Slice diagonally with a sharp, serrated knife. -
Step 12
Garnish with fresh thyme, balsamic glaze, or hot honey (optional). Serve immediately, perhaps with a side salad or soup.
Important Information
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)
It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
Allergy Information
Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
