Pear, Fontina, and Caramelized Onion Panini

I had a big bag of onions that were on the verge of going bad (starting to sprout peculiar growths) so I peeled and sliced them all for a big batch of caramelized onions. I'm sure glad I did, because I feel in love with this panini and now I've eaten three (on separate days, thankfully)! Juicy Bartlett pear, gooey fontina cheese, and sweet caramelized onions between two slices of crusty whole grain bread- it's heaven.

My panini press (the Cuisinart Griddler) that transforms itself into a grill and a griddle is my most utilized piece of kitchen equipment. (Sorry food processor, sorry Kitchen Aid, you're just not as useful!) I've only had it for a year, but it's been worth every penny! Since we don't have an outdoor grill (I'm hoping that maybe this year I'll get one), I do all of my grilling on this contraption. It's fast to heat up, easy to clean, and I never have to brave the weather. I am slightly nervous that even once I own a real grill, I'll be too lazy to use it since this baby is so wonderful. And no, I'm not being paid to say this. I have no sponsors and receive no payment for promoting it. I just thought you should know how handy a tool it is! I grill meat, burgers, wraps, sandwiches, vegetables on it. I can fry bacon and make pancakes and french toast. And when I'm done I simply slip off the grill pans and shove them in the dishwasher with the rest of my mess. And that makes me happy.

INGREDIENTS
2 onions, thinly sliced
extra virgin olive oil
salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
1 pear, sliced
fontina cheese, grated
4 slices hearty whole wheat bread

DIRECTIONS
1. To caramelize the onions, heat about 1 Tbsp. olive oil in a large saute pan over medium heat. Add the onions and stir to coat. Season generously with salt and pepper. Continue cooking, stirring frequently, for 25-35 minutes, until the onions are soft and golden brown.

2. Preheat grill pan or panini press to medium-high heat. Layer caramelized onions, pear, and cheese on two slices of bread. Top with the second slice of bread.

3. Spray the press with cooking spray and grill until the cheese is melted the crust is golden brown. Slice and serve immediately.

Makes 2 paninis.

(Adapted from Food Network)