Summer Sandwiches
Hello friends, summer’s here and it comes with a whirlwind of activities from day trips and beach days to backyard barbecues and spontaneous adventures. Cooking elaborate meals often falls by the wayside during the busy days of summer. That’s where one of my hubbies’ favorite things comes in. The humble, yet mighty, sandwich saves me time spent in a hot kitchen.
Sandwiches are the ultimate solution for busy summer days. They’re quick to assemble, incredibly versatile, and perfectly portable. With a huge variety of combinations, you can go with the classic deli meats or gourmet vegetarian options. There’s a sandwich for every hungry tummy. Today I’m getting creative. I’m sharing a few you might enjoy during the summer months. These are perfect for activities or just for a quick meal.
There’s nothing wrong with a classic ham and cheese. But, summer is the perfect time to experiment with fresh, seasonal ingredients.
Pita, Flat Bread or Sourdough, filled with hummus, roasted red peppers, cucumber, Kalamata olives, and feta cheese creates a flavorful and healthy sandwich.
What You Need
- Pita, flat bread or thick sliced sourdough
- Hummus or whole garbanzo beans (your favorite)
- Roasted red peppers (from a jar or homemade)
- Cucumber (thinly sliced or chopped)
- Kalamata olives (chopped)
- Crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh spinach or other greens
- Tomato slices
- Red onion (thinly sliced)
- Tzatziki sauce
- Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or mint
Caprese sandwich is a classic for a reason, it’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly simple. Consider adding prosciutto or bacon.
What You Need
- Baguette
- Fresh mozzarella, thinly sliced
- Ripe tomatoes, thinly sliced
- Fresh basil leaves
- *Balsamic glaze
- Extra virgin olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Bacon or Prscuitto (optional)
Lets Make it! Slice the baguette lengthwise.Drizzle the inside of the baguette with a little olive oil.Layer fresh mozzarella, tomato slices, and fresh basil leaves generously.Drizzle with balsamic glaze.Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Or Italian seasoning (see my homemade seasoning HERE)
*Katie’s TidBits
*Balsamic Glaze– 2 cups balsamic vinegar, half a cup brown sugar. Mix balsamic vinegar with brown sugar in a saucepan over medium heat, stirring constantly until sugar has dissolved. Bring to a boil. Lower the heat and let it simmer. Continue until the glaze is reduced by half. It should coat the back of a spoon ( about 20 minutes.)
Prevent Soggy Bottoms- If you’re packing a sandwich for later, spread a thin layer of butter on the bread. You can also use cream cheese. This creates a barrier against moist fillings. Pack juicy ingredients like tomatoes separately and add them right before eating.
Spice It Up-Add a dollop of sriracha or a pinch of red pepper flake to your chicken salad sandwich. Serve on toasted sourdough with crisp lettuce.
Spread It On-Spread your favorite herb cream cheese on a hearty bread. Add avocado, sprouts, grated carrots, and bell peppers.
What’s your go to summer sandwich creation? Which one of these sandwiches will you try? Please let me know in the comments below!
