Greens Grilled Cheese

1 bunch dark leafy greens, such as kale or chard

1/2 lb. Brussels sprouts

1 large handful baby spinach

2 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil

3 garlic cloves, minced

Pinch of red pepper flakes

1 tsp. kosher salt

1/4 tsp. ground black pepper

1 Tbsp. apple cider vinegar

8 slices whole grain or sprouted grain bread

8 slices mild melting cheese, such as provolone or havarti

2 Tbsp. softened butter

1. Start by prepping your greens. If using kale, remove leaves from stems, and chop leaves into 1”-wide ribbons (discard stems). Or, if using chard, remove wide stems, and dice stems into small pieces to saute first; chop leaves into 1”-wide ribbons. Set aside. Prep Brussels sprouts by trimming the bottom stem, cutting the sprout in half, then thinly slicing the Brussel sprouts into shreds. Set aside.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced Brussels sprouts (and chard stems, if using), and saute about 4 minutes, until beginning to soften.
3. Add minced garlic and pinch of red pepper flakes, and saute about 30 seconds.
4. Add kale or chard leaf ribbons, and season with the salt and pepper. The salt will help draw out the moisture from the leafy greens, allowing them to soften and the liquid to evaporate (so you don’t have a soggy sandwich!). Saute about 6 minutes, then add the baby spinach, and saute another 1-2 minutes, until all leafy greens are wilted.
5. Add apple cider vinegar. Taste for seasonings, then remove from heat. Divide greens into four equal portions.
6. Assemble your sandwiches: thinly spread one slice of bread with softened butter. Place buttered-side down and top with one slice of cheese. Add one portion of the divided sautéed greens, piling them on top of the cheese. Add another slice of cheese on top of the greens. Top with a piece of bread, and spread the top slice of bread with a thin, even layer of butter. Repeat until your have assembled four sandwiches.
7. Transfer sandwiches to a pre-heat griddle or large skillet, and cook on each side until the bread is golden brown and cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes per side.
8. Remove sandwiches from pan, and let rest 1-2 minutes. Slice in half, and serve!