What to Make Sandwiches That Stand Out

As a Filipino when I came to America, I was not used to what sandwiches that is aesthetically and humongous-ly looking like-sandwiches. When I was living in the Philippines a sandwich as I assume is an American food. Given as that it is just as it is including two slices of bread (major give away) and deli meat and cheese and mayo. But that was just the basic not even close to what I see when I got to the States.

True, when I was just that age, I will say I don't know much. And now I know that there's also a type of familiarity with sandwiches in guess what, Asian countries and European countries as well as from other lands. As I recall in the Middle East and Mediterranean countries might have SIMILAR type of sandwiches as a croissant using layered Phyllo dough and the filling is tucked neatly into dough pockets. And of course, paired with dipping sauce.

Until then when I knew what a real sandwich looks like and how it is served, I never knew even an avocado can be added to a sandwich!

My head kind of hurt I couldn't figure out what that would taste like at that moment.

But I know there is something about this I am itching to investigate.

I start to think, and after I asked my mom why a friend added avocado slices to her sandwich one time at a bring your own lunch event? You know, her answer was, "It has protein content". Avocado has protein content. In my late twenties, who knew? I sure did not!

I was thinking about the past while I lived in my country avocado is made into desserts?! That was all I knew back then. LOL! 😄

So, in my years of being in my kitchen cook era for my family, I was wondering what other things I can add into this stack of sandwich ingredients that makes even more nutrient dense and also flavorful? And as it is a REAL sandwich?

I worked and observed flavors I might add to it. During this time span I also look for easy recipes online that are "grab and go" not necessarily looking for sandwiches. And guess what, sandwiches are few of the recipes I found. What more could I not likey-likey about this?

It is not just typical veggies and deli protein that I found but a whole lot of other things that make up what a sandwich is like to serve its purpose. Easy to prepare, a grab and go MEAL, also nutritious, and packed with flavor.

Hihi! ☺️ I know including avocado among other things. Low-key observations.

What the Beginning of The Journey Look Like

As if my mind was bigger than my stomach. I was hungry while I looked into this rabbit hole.

I really have a reason to eaves drop on the sandwich that the friend brought. So, I did.

I was not disappointed when I look at this information. I am grateful that she shared what was in her sandwich that day. Or it wouldn't have taken me to case this argument in my head to find out more savory protein salad in between bread slices. See more on this (current) article on what I found when observing more sandwich meal on the go stacks-et al online.

Here we goooo!

Do not touch the sandwich, when a person is making the sandwich.

Build Your Bread Base with Intention

Bread has been a staple when it comes to sandwiches. Often it is also substituted with a veggie wrap like lettuce. But it is not limited to that. After all we can explore options beyond sliced white such as croissants, bagels, pita, keto. Even whole wheat, or even muti-grain bread. The latter ones mentioned are grainier and it is like an un-hulled wheat texture. Sometimes it has whole oats on top of the loaf slices or even seeds within the bread.

We can consider the flavor, texture, and size of our bread in contrast with our fillings.

Care it to be toasted, warmed, or fresh? We can do that too. Choose what highlights the sandwich's personality. And you come up with a form that is both not only aesthetically pleasing in presentation but also pleasing to the tastebuds.

Layer on Protein with Creativity

When we think of sandwiches, what comes to mind? Even if I shared what I first thought of what a sandwich looks like when I first was conscious of seeing how others made theirs, I hope it didn't throw you off my representation at first.

Telling, I did not also know we can try seasoned beans, lentils, or tofu. Instead of deli meats for a plant-based twist.

Grill or roast our own sandwich meats with spice blends or marinades for bold flavor. Even meat seasoned with dressing and added nuts and fruits for a new take on sweet, crunchy, and savory bites.

We can't forget other proteins such as eggs-fried, boiled, Jammy, or scrambled-they elevate every bite.

Dress It Like a Salad in Disguise

Slaws, chopped veggies, herby greens, and pickled things adds crunch and brightness.

Now there's an Asian sandwich that I like called bánh mì. I think this is an example of sandwiches that has pickled veggies.

There are sandwiches that spread on a packed-ful of flavor: from cream cheese to spicy yogurt, vinaigrettes, and Aolis. And you can go wild to put on fruits, seeds, or even nuts that can bring unexpected texture and sweet contrast.

Make It Feel Like a Full Meal

Think of the sandwich as a full plate-balanced in color, nutrients, and taste. A meal that is handheld, handmade, and is looking good and with all the above mentioned described due to it being a palatable full meal.

Combining savory, tangy, creamy, and fresh elements for a satisfying experience.

Using small-batch or homemade ingredients for that personal, made -with-love feel. I'm sure your tummy and tastebuds will thank you!

So ready to take on in the action? What do you make your sandwich to stand out?