1. Butter the outside of each slice of bread, then flip the bread over to assemble the sandwiches.
2. Distribute half of the cheese between four slices of bread. Top with two layers of thinly sliced apple, shallots, dates and a scatter of thyme. Next, layer the ham and finish with the remaining cheese. Close with the remaining sliced bread (butter side up).
3. Toast in a sandwich press until golden.
4. Alternatively, heat a fry pan over medium heat, drizzle some oil, then cook sandwiches until golden brown and the cheese has melted, carefully flipping halfway through, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. To serve, slice sandwiches in half and serve with rocket leaves dressed in a vinaigrette.
Cook's Notes
Swap out gruyere cheese for additional cheddar cheese
*While Medjool dates are high in natural sugars, they are low on the glycemic index thanks to a balanced amount of soluble fiber. The complex carbohydrates found in Medjool dates are digested at a slower rate, making them a source of dietary fiber and releasing energy to the body over a longer period of time.
