Sandwiches Recipe

Prepare bread

Lay out 8 slices of bread on a clean work surface. If you prefer toasted bread, brush one side of each slice lightly with olive oil (1 tsp total) and toast face-down in a skillet over medium heat until light golden (about 1–2 minutes), or use a toaster and toast to your preference.

Spread butter thinly on one side of four slices (this helps create a barrier and adds flavor). On the other four slices, spread mayonnaise (about 1 tsp per slice) and then spread mustard (about 1/2 tsp per mayo-spread slice) on top of the mayo.

Layer protein and cheese

On the four slices with mayonnaise/mustard, place 2 slices of turkey and 2 slices of ham on each (or arrange as you like for variety). Top the meat with 1 slice of cheese per sandwich. If you want a warm, melted cheese sandwich, place assembled open-faced sandwiches under a broiler for 1–2 minutes until cheese melts slightly.

Optional egg

If using eggs: heat a nonstick skillet over medium and add a small drop of oil or butter. Crack 2 eggs and fry to desired doneness (sunny-side up or over-easy recommended). Season eggs with a pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper (about 1/8 tsp each). Place one fried egg on top of the cheese on two sandwiches for a breakfast-style sandwich.

Slice tomato into 4 thin rounds. Place 1 tomato slice and 1 lettuce leaf on top of the cheese (or egg if used) on each sandwich. Add a few thin rings of red onion and 2 pickle slices per sandwich if using.

Season the tomato lightly with the remaining kosher salt and black pepper (divide the 1/4 tsp salt and 1/4 tsp pepper across the sandwiches).

Top each sandwich with a buttered bread slice (butter side facing out if toasting further). Press gently to compact the sandwich. If you like the outsides toasted/crisp, toast sandwiches in a clean skillet over medium heat 1–2 minutes per side, or place in a panini press until golden and warmed through.

Cut each sandwich in half on the diagonal or down the middle. Serve immediately while warm, or wrap tightly for later. Provide extra pickle slices or chips on the side as desired.