generally, sandwiches are not something for which a recipe is necessary.  bread, condiments, cheese…not usually something that requires much instruction.  but sometimes, just sometimes, there comes a combination of flavors & a little bit of technique that goes a bit beyond slapping some turkey between two slices of sandwich bread.

this is one of those times.

all the sophistication of an upscale cheese plate, but with the approachability of your favorite meal that’s meant to be eaten with your hands.

from giada & the food network (makes 4 servings)

1 loaf ciabatta bread, halved lengthwise & cut into four pieces to make 8 slices, or 8 slices of crusty bread
1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
8oz taleggio cheese (if you have trouble finding it, substitute brie)
2 large pears, cored & cut into 1/4 inch wedges
2 tablespoons honey
salt & freshly ground pepper
3oz arugula

1. preheat panini grill, or grill pan, to medium. brush the bread on both sides with olive oil & place on the preheated grill. grill until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes.

2. divide the cheese among the four bottom pieces of warm bread. top with pear wedges, drizzle with honey & sprinkle with salt & pepper. top with the arugula, equally divided amongst the four sandwiches. top with remaining bread.

3. return the assembled sandwiches to the grill & heat for 1-2 more minutes, until the cheese melts slightly. cut in half & dig in while they’re still warm.