Turkey, Gorgonzola & Cranberry Sandwich: A Perfect Combination of Savory and Sweet
Introduction
Sometimes, the best creations come from unexpected cravings. This Turkey, Gorgonzola & Cranberry Sandwich is one of those delightful combinations that I whipped up on a whim, hoping the flavors would work together. To my pleasant surprise, the result was a sandwich that perfectly balances savory turkey, tangy Gorgonzola, creamy fat-free cream cheese, and sweet-tart dried cranberries. If you’re someone who dislikes mayonnaise for its soggy aftermath, this recipe is just for you! The use of cream cheese offers a smooth texture without compromising on flavor, and the mix of fresh veggies like cucumbers and tomatoes adds a delightful crunch.
Whether you’re crafting this for a quick lunch or snack, the beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility. You can easily swap out ingredients to create your own personalized version — think of it as a base formula for countless other sandwiches. If you’re in a rush, you can also pre-mix the cream cheese with dried cranberries and Gorgonzola for an even quicker assembly. This sandwich makes an excellent option for a light, satisfying meal and is ready in just 5 minutes!
Ingredients for Turkey, Gorgonzola & Cranberry Sandwich
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fat-free cream cheese | 2 tablespoons |
| Gorgonzola cheese | 2 tablespoons |
| Alfalfa sprouts | 1 handful |
| Cucumber (sliced) | 1 small cucumber |
| Tomato (sliced) | 1 small tomato |
| Dried cranberries | 2 tablespoons |
| Light 9-grain bread (or preferred type) | 2 slices |
| Smoked turkey deli meat | 4 slices |
Nutritional Information (Per Serving)
| Nutritional Information | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 98.1 kcal |
| Fat | 3.8 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.9 g |
| Cholesterol | 29.9 mg |
| Sodium | 634.3 mg |
| Carbohydrates | 4.4 g |
| Fiber | 0.7 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 12.2 g |
Instructions for Making Turkey, Gorgonzola & Cranberry Sandwich
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Toast the Bread: Begin by lightly toasting the slices of 9-grain bread. You can use a toaster, a grill pan, or a regular skillet. The goal is to achieve a crispy, slightly golden exterior without over-browning.
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Spread the Cream Cheese: Once your bread slices are toasted, spread 1 tablespoon of fat-free cream cheese on each slice of bread. Make sure to spread it evenly to the edges, ensuring every bite has that creamy base.
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Add Gorgonzola: On the bottom slice of bread, sprinkle 1 tablespoon of Gorgonzola cheese over the cream cheese. The cream cheese helps the Gorgonzola stick to the bread, while also mellowing out its tangy flavor. Gently mash the cheese with the back of a spoon to help it adhere better.
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Layer the Alfalfa Sprouts: Spread a generous handful of alfalfa sprouts over the Gorgonzola cheese. The fresh, slightly peppery flavor of the sprouts adds a delightful contrast to the rich and creamy cheese. Plus, they provide a nice crunch!
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Add the Smoked Turkey: Next, layer 4 slices of smoked turkey deli meat on top of the sprouts. Smoked turkey works wonderfully here, giving the sandwich a savory, satisfying taste. If you prefer a different deli meat, feel free to substitute it with roast beef, chicken, or even ham.
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Pile on the Veggies: Place thinly sliced cucumbers and tomato slices on top of the turkey. The freshness and lightness of the cucumbers and tomatoes help balance out the richness of the other ingredients, making each bite refreshing.
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Finish with Cranberries: For the final touch, sprinkle 2 tablespoons of dried cranberries on top of the tomato slices. The cranberries add a touch of sweetness and a slight chewiness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy cream cheese and the other ingredients.
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Assemble and Serve: Place the second slice of bread on top, pressing down gently to secure the sandwich. Slice it in half if desired, and you’re ready to enjoy your Turkey, Gorgonzola & Cranberry Sandwich.
Tips for Customizing Your Turkey, Gorgonzola & Cranberry Sandwich
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Switch Up the Bread: While I prefer Aunt Hattie’s Light 9-grain bread, you can use any type of bread you like — from whole wheat to sourdough or even a gluten-free option if needed.
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Cream Cheese Alternatives: If you want to add a different flavor, consider using a herb-infused cream cheese or a light goat cheese spread. You can also try adding a thin layer of hummus for a unique twist.
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Cheese Substitutes: Gorgonzola can be swapped out for other blue cheeses, such as Roquefort or Stilton, depending on your taste preferences. If you’re not a fan of blue cheese, try a creamy Brie or even a sharp cheddar.
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Add More Veggies: If you’re a fan of veggies, feel free to add lettuce, arugula, or even some thinly sliced red onion for an extra bite.
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Make it a Wrap: If you prefer a wrap, use a whole-wheat tortilla instead of bread for a lighter option that’s easy to take on the go.
Why You’ll Love This Turkey, Gorgonzola & Cranberry Sandwich
This sandwich is not only a treat for your taste buds but also a time-saver. With only 5 minutes of prep time and no cooking required, it’s perfect for busy lunches or even a quick snack. It’s packed with protein from the turkey and the cream cheese, while the Gorgonzola cheese adds just the right amount of tangy richness. The dried cranberries bring a burst of sweetness that pairs perfectly with the savory turkey, making this sandwich a delightful blend of flavors.
Additionally, with its flexibility in ingredient substitutions, you can easily adjust the recipe to suit your preferences or dietary needs. Whether you’re craving something light, hearty, or even more adventurous, this sandwich is a fantastic starting point for creativity in the kitchen.
Perfect for lunch, an afternoon snack, or even a light dinner, this Turkey, Gorgonzola & Cranberry Sandwich is a crowd-pleaser that will quickly become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Enjoy!
