The Power of a Sandwich
Back in the 90s, I had a favorite sandwich. My husband and I still talk about it to this day. In fact, we talked about it just last week. Seriously, it was that good. And simple: turkey and muenster on English muffin bread, assembled and grilled to perfection.
We don’t eat turkey or cheese anymore, and English muffin bread seems to be a regional thing, so it’s a sandwich that stays alive only in our memories, but with great fondness. There have been other sandwiches, but none that have made me as happy as that 90s masterpiece...until now.
Simple and Beyond Satisfying
My friend made this sandwich for me during a working lunch. The ingredients were so simple that when I took my first bite, I wondered where this amazing sandwich had been my whole life?
Who are the stars of this show?
- Sourdough bread (or the bread of your choice)
- Tomatoes (heirloom or vine-ripened are best)
- Favorite greens (spring mix, romaine, iceberg)
- Onions
- Mustard & mayo
- Salt and pepper
That’s it. I know it seems too simple to reach New Favorite Sandwich status, but it has, and its simplicity only adds to its appeal. Even my kids love this sandwich, and when you have a middle school boy saying, “Oh yeah…that is a good sandwich,” you know you’ve got a winner.
So, how does this all come together?
Toasting is Key
First, toast your bread. I’ve come to realize that in order to make my list of favorites, there’s going to be grilling or toasting involved. No soft bread sandwich will ever make the cut. In fact, I have a picture of a sandwich in my kitchen that has the distinction of being the WORST SANDWICH I HAVE EVER HAD IN MY LIFE. The bread is the kind that sticks to the roof of your mouth and the edges mush together from each bite. We still talk about THAT sandwich, as well, at least three times a year, going on 15 years. Back to your new favorite sandwich, you’ll want the structural integrity that toasting provides.
Next, apply equal parts of mayonnaise and mustard to the toasted bread and spread to combine. Start with a layer of greens. Then add the tomatoes (room temperature is best) and cut to your desired thickness; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Finally, top with onions, the other slice of bread, and cut it in your preferred direction.
What’s so great about this sandwich?
- Comes together in minutes
- Can be 100% plant-based with vegan mayos
- An easy and satisfying way to get in seasonal fresh produce
- Other tasty add-ons: cheese, cucumbers, radishes
Eating doesn’t need to be complicated to be satisfying. A few common ingredients can come together to make something special. For more ideas on easy, plant-based eating (or more details on the worst sandwich ever) reach out, and let's talk.
Click HERE to learn more about the Wellview services available to you. We can’t wait to work with you!
– Jeanne Torre, MSW, LCSW, NBC-HWC
Health Advisor | Email Jeanne
Plant-Based Nutrition Certificate, eCornell and T. Colin Campbell Center
