I have a thing for turkey sandwiches.
Ever since I can remember, turkey and cheese has been my sandwich of choice at every sub shop, picnic, and field trip, and I have never gotten tired of building my own at home. It’s not the most glamorous of meals, but it’s reliable, easy, great for midday fuel, and allows so many options for bold flavor and fun additions!
My tastes have certainly evolved over the years, and my sandwich creations have blossomed as a result. I love to try new combos, and a couple have stood out so much that I MUST share them with the world.
First, the basics:
- Bread: I like to stick to minimal ingredients, nothing artificial, and 100% whole grain. My favorites are Rudi’s 100% Whole Wheat, Rudi’s Honey Sweet Whole Wheat, and 365 Organic Touch of Honey Whole Wheat.
- Meat: I’m a big fan of Applegate Farms roasted or smoked turkey. As with any deli meat, try not to overdo it because of the high sodium content. But with a host of yummy fix-ins, one serving or less is plenty for a great sandwich.
- Cheese: I always prefer buying blocks of good-quality cheese and slicing or shredding as needed. This way, you can use the same type for different purposes and avoid the additives sometimes found in pre-shredded/sliced cheeses. Plus, freshly cut will almost always taste better.
- Condiments: Don’t be afraid to try something new! Be it a whole grain Dijon, BBQ sauce, olives, artichokes, fruit, or a sweet spread, a little flavor adventure can take lunchtime to a whole new level.
- Sides: I love to pair my sandwiches with fresh seasonal fruit and a little crunch on the side. Some healthier sides/snacks worth trying: The Good Bean Roasted Chickpeas (especially sea salt and mesquite BBQ; cinnamon for a sweeter snack mix), Beanitos White Bean Chips (better than any Mexican restaurant!), Crunchmaster Multi-Grain Crackers (roasted veggie all the way!)
#1: The BBQ-Cheddar-Pickle
- Light spread of BBQ sauce (Stubb’s Original)
- 1 serving turkey
- sliced sharp cheddar
- sliced red onion
- sliced dill pickle (watch out for artificial preservatives/colors; I like organic)
- sliced tomato
- Romaine or spinach
- mashed avocado with on top slice (optional)
#2: The Sun-Dried Tomato-Herb-Olive
- Light spread of Dijon
- 1 serving turkey
- sliced cheese (my favorite for this sandwich has been Sargento’s Bruschetta Jack, but if not available, fontina, mozzarella, provolone, or gouda)
- torn fresh basil
- sliced red onion
- sliced pimiento-stuffed green olive
- sliced sun-dried tomato
- Romaine or spinach
- avocado mashed with 1/4 tsp minced garlic on the top slice (I just mash it with the garlic right on the bread when still a little frozen)
What are your favorite combos?