Tomato Sandwich from Italy 🍅🥪
Overview:
This Tomato Sandwich from Italy is a delightful lunchtime treat that hails from the sunny streets of Naples. Bursting with Mediterranean flavors, it’s a simple yet glorious creation that embodies the essence of summer. With juicy tomatoes, fragrant garlic, and fresh basil, each bite is a taste of Italian sunshine. Feel free to customize with additional toppings like capers, oregano, or olives, but sometimes, simplicity reigns supreme. Whether you’re vegan, a vegetable enthusiast, or simply craving a quick and easy snack, this recipe ticks all the boxes. Plus, it comes together in under 15 minutes, making it perfect for those busy days when you need a satisfying meal in a flash. Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients:
| Quantity | Ingredient |
|---|---|
| 2 | Tomatoes |
| 1-6 | Fresh garlic cloves |
| 1 | Handful of fresh basil |
| – | Extra virgin olive oil |
| 1 | Loaf of Italian bread |
| – | Salt |
| – | Pepper |
Nutrition Facts (per serving):
- Calories: 430.7
- Fat Content: 5.5g
- Saturated Fat Content: 1.3g
- Cholesterol Content: 0mg
- Sodium Content: 882.4mg
- Carbohydrate Content: 80.2g
- Fiber Content: 5.6g
- Sugar Content: 4.5g
- Protein Content: 14.4g
Instructions:
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Prepare Ingredients: Start by gathering all your ingredients. Since this recipe is all about personal taste, feel free to adjust the quantities according to your preference.
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Slice Tomatoes: Wash the tomatoes thoroughly and slice them into 1/4 or 1/2 inch slices, depending on your preference. You want them juicy and substantial for that perfect bite.
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Crush Garlic: Take several fresh garlic cloves and crush them with the flat side of a knife or a garlic press. The more garlic, the better, but adjust according to your taste buds.
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Chop Basil: Rinse the fresh basil leaves and chop them finely. You’ll need some for spreading and some for garnish, so reserve a few whole leaves for decoration.
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Prepare Bread: Take a loaf of Italian bread and cut it in half crosswise. Then, slice each half lengthwise without cutting all the way through, leaving it hinged like a sub sandwich.
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Open the Loaf: Gently open each half of the loaf flat, exposing the soft interior.
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Drizzle with Olive Oil: Generously drizzle extra virgin olive oil on both sides of the loaf. This adds richness and flavor to every bite.
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Spread Garlic and Basil: Spread crushed garlic on the bottom of the loaf, adjusting the amount to suit your taste. Follow with a sprinkle of chopped basil, spreading it evenly for maximum flavor.
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Layer Tomatoes: Arrange the tomato slices on top of the garlic and basil, slightly overlapping them for a beautiful presentation. Feel free to add more garlic if you’re a garlic lover!
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Season to Taste: Sprinkle salt and pepper over the tomatoes, seasoning them to perfection. Don’t be shy with the seasoning; it enhances the flavors of the sandwich.
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Garnish with Basil: For a final touch, place some whole basil leaves on top of the tomatoes. Not only does it add a pop of color, but it also infuses the sandwich with aromatic freshness.
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Serve and Enjoy: Keep the sandwich open for an eye-catching presentation. Slice it into portions and serve immediately to savor the vibrant flavors at their peak.
Tips:
- Customize Your Sandwich: Experiment with additional toppings like capers, oregano, or crushed black olives to add your own twist to this classic Italian sandwich.
- Use Quality Ingredients: Since this recipe relies on simple ingredients, opt for the freshest tomatoes, garlic, and basil you can find to elevate the flavors.
- Serve with a Side: Pair your Tomato Sandwich with a side salad or some crispy potato chips for a complete meal experience.
- Make it Ahead: While this sandwich is best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble it just before serving to save time.
Conclusion:
With its vibrant colors, fresh flavors, and Mediterranean charm, this Tomato Sandwich from Italy is sure to become a staple in your lunchtime repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a picnic, packing a quick lunch, or simply craving a taste of Italy, this recipe delivers satisfaction in every bite. So gather your ingredients, embrace your creativity, and indulge in a taste of summer with this irresistible Italian delight! 🇮🇹🥪
