Before I had my son, I couldn't even tell you the last time I had a grilled cheese sandwich! Not knowing any better as children, my friends and I would make them with the plastic-wrapped, processed cheese and dip them in ketchup. They were pretty good back then...but this updated and healthier version is so much better. If you haven't jumped on the avocado bandwagon yet, now is the time! Avocado is great for kids because it's easy for them to eat, has a mild flavor, and has good fat that helps with brain development. As my son has grown older and developed an opinion, finding food for him has been more challenging. Some days he likes a meal and some days he doesn't. This was one of the meals I came up with when trying to figure out more ways to use avocado AND fit in some spinach. He also likes that he can hold onto (and occasionally throw) it…anything to feel more independent!

Avocado works almost like a butter/mayo alternative, and it has a creamy, rich flavor and texture. I love the taste of spinach, but getting my son to eat it on its own can be tough. I always look for ways to get more greens into his diet, so I like to finely chop veggies and hide them in the middle of the cheesy center. If you are making this for adults (or kids that aren't practicing their new found independence) feel free to add more! I use shredded cheese in this recipe, because I always have it around, but you can use any cheese that you or your kids like. Creamy avocado, earthy spinach, rich cheese, and hearty sprouted bread come together to make a perfectly kid friendly (and adult friendly) grilled cheese.

Avocado and Spinach Grilled Cheese (Kid Friendly)

Avocado and Spinach Grilled Cheese (Kid Friendly)

Author:

Maria Provenzano

Serves:

1 sandwich

Ingredients

2 slices sprouted bread (or whole wheat)
1/2 ripe avocado
cheese (I use a shredded blend, but use whatever you or or child likes)
a small handful of spinach
butter or olive oil for the outside of the bread

Instructions

Spread butter (or olive oil) on one side of the bread
Place the bread butter side down on a pan over medium head
Spread half of the avocado into the bread
Sprinkle some cheese on the bread
Chop the spinach into small pieces (for kids)
Sprinkle the spinach on the cheese
Top with a little more cheese
Spread the other side of the bread with the rest of the avocado half
Place avocado side down on the cheese
Spread butter on the top piece of the bread
Cook until the bread turns lightly brown
Flip and cook on the other side and cook until the bread is lightly brown and the cheese has melted
Allow to cool for a couple minutes
Cut and serve