Sandwiches Recipe

Prep bread and condiments

Lay out 8 slices of white bread. Spread about 1 teaspoon of softened butter on one side of four slices (these will be the outside of the sandwich). On the other four slices, spread mayonnaise on one and mustard on another, or combine mayonnaise and mustard on both bread interior sides according to taste.

Assemble fillings

On the unbuttered interior side of two bread slices, layer 4 slices of deli ham, 2 slices of cheddar cheese (divide evenly), 2 leaves of lettuce, and 3–4 tomato slices per sandwich. Sprinkle about 1/8 teaspoon salt and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper over the tomato slices to season.

Finish and serve

Top each assembled sandwich with the remaining bread slice, buttered side out. If you prefer a cold sandwich, cut diagonally and serve immediately. To serve warm, heat a skillet over medium heat and grill each sandwich 2–3 minutes per side until bread is golden and cheese begins to soften. Let rest 1 minute, slice, and serve.

Prepare avocado spread

Scoop the flesh from half a ripe avocado into a small bowl. Mash with a fork until slightly chunky. Stir in 1/2 tsp lemon juice, 1 tsp olive oil, 1/4 tsp salt, and 1/4 tsp black pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning.

Toast bread

Heat a skillet or griddle over medium. Brush one side of each whole grain bread slice with the butter or 1 tsp olive oil. Place buttered side down in the skillet and toast 1–2 minutes until golden. Remove from heat.

Assemble and finish

Spread the avocado mixture on the untoasted sides of each toasted slice. Layer 3 slices of roast turkey and a handful (about 1 cup) of baby spinach on one slice, then top with the other slice, toasted side out. Press gently, cut in half, and serve immediately.

Prep bread and fillings

Slice the ciabatta or baguette lengthwise. Drizzle the cut surfaces lightly with 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil.

Assemble

Layer fresh mozzarella slices evenly on the bottom half, then tomato slices, and tuck basil leaves between layers. Sprinkle 1/4 tsp salt and 1/8 tsp black pepper over the tomatoes. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the top layer evenly.

Serve

Close the sandwich, press lightly to compact, then cut into portions. Serve at room temperature or warm briefly in a 350°F (175°C) oven for 5 minutes to slightly melt the cheese.