Summer is here, and what better way to beat the heat than with a refreshing cold sandwich? Gone are the days of soggy lettuce and wilted tomatoes – these 20 recipes will show you how to make the most delicious, light, and satisfying sandwiches that are perfect for hot summer days. From classic tea sandwiches to Mediterranean-inspired wraps, we’ve got something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and simple or packed with flavor and texture, our cold sandwich recipes have got you covered.
Check out some of our favorite summer sandwich ideas below:
Classic Cucumber Tea Sandwich: A timeless favorite, this sandwich combines the freshness of cucumber slices with the creaminess of butter on soft white bread.
Avocado and Egg Salad Sandwich: Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the richness of hard-boiled eggs in a deliciously light and satisfying sandwich.
Classic Cucumber Tea Sandwich
Classic Cucumber Tea Sandwich Recipe
A refreshing and elegant finger food perfect for afternoon tea parties or light luncheons, this classic cucumber tea sandwich is a timeless favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 4-6 slices of white bread (preferably unsalted buttered)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh dill leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the cucumber slices into thin strips.
2. Spread a small amount of mayonnaise on each bread slice.
3. Place 2-3 cucumber strips on one half of each bread slice.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Top with another bread slice to form a sandwich.
6. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! Just assemble and serve.
Avocado and Egg Salad Sandwich
Elevate your sandwich game with this creamy and savory combination of ripe avocado, fluffy eggs, and fresh herbs.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices whole wheat bread
– Mayonnaise or your favorite spread (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine diced avocado, sliced eggs, and chopped parsley.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Butter or spread mayonnaise on each slice of bread, if desired.
4. Spoon the avocado-egg mixture onto two slices of bread, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with remaining bread slices and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (includes boiling eggs)
Smoked Salmon and Cream Cheese Bagel
A classic combination of flavors and textures comes together in this simple yet satisfying recipe. Smoky salmon, creamy cheese, and crunchy bagel make for a perfect breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 bagel
– 2 tablespoons cream cheese, softened
– 4 slices smoked salmon
– 1 tablespoon capers, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: thinly sliced red onion, caper berries, or chopped fresh dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the bagel until lightly browned.
2. Spread the softened cream cheese evenly onto the toasted bagel.
3. Place 2-3 slices of smoked salmon on top of the cream cheese.
4. Sprinkle chopped capers over the salmon.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with optional toppings, if desired.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Veggie Hummus Wrap
A flavorful and healthy wrap filled with creamy hummus, crunchy vegetables, and fresh herbs. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup tahini
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/2 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a blender, combine chickpeas, lemon juice, garlic, tahini, and olive oil. Blend until smooth.
2. Spread the hummus on the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Top with cucumber, red bell pepper, and parsley.
4. Sprinkle feta cheese (if using) and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Roll up the wrap tightly and slice in half.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Turkey and Cranberry Cream Cheese Sandwich
A flavorful twist on a classic sandwich, this Turkey and Cranberry Cream Cheese Sandwich combines the savory taste of turkey with the sweetness of cranberries and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 2 oz. cooked turkey breast
– 1/4 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup dried cranberries
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 lettuce leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay out the bread slices.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of cream cheese on each slice.
3. Top with cooked turkey breast, cranberries, and a sprinkle of salt and pepper.
4. Add a lettuce leaf on top (optional).
5. Place the other bread slice on top to complete the sandwich.
Cooking Time: Assemble the sandwich just before serving – no cooking time required!
Caprese Ciabatta with Balsamic Glaze
Savor the flavors of Italy with this simple yet impressive Caprese ciabatta, topped with a rich balsamic glaze. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 ciabatta loaf
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Slice the ciabatta loaf in half lengthwise.
3. Arrange tomato slices on one half of the bread, leaving a small border around each slice.
4. Top tomatoes with mozzarella cheese slices.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cheese and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
7. Meanwhile, reduce balsamic vinegar to a thick glaze by cooking it in a saucepan over medium heat for about 10 minutes.
8. Drizzle the balsamic glaze over the ciabatta and sprinkle with chopped basil leaves (if using).
9. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Salad with Celery and Dill
This refreshing tuna salad combines the richness of tuna with the crunch of celery and the brightness of dill, perfect for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 stalks of celery, diced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh dill
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, celery, and dill.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise until smooth.
3. Add the mayonnaise to the tuna mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Greek Gyro Pita with Tzatziki
Experience the flavors of Greece with this classic combination of juicy gyro meat, crispy pita bread, and creamy tzatziki sauce. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground lamb or beef
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 pita breads
– Tzatziki sauce (recipe below)
Tzatziki Sauce:
– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Mix together lamb, garlic, and parsley. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Form into small patties. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Warm pita breads by wrapping in foil and heating on the grill for a few minutes.
5. Assemble gyros by slicing grilled meat onto warmed pita breads and topping with tzatziki sauce.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BLT with Herb Mayo on Sourdough
Elevate the classic BLT with the added freshness of herb mayo on a crispy sourdough bread.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of sourdough bread
– 6-8 slices of bacon, cooked until crispy
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 2 lettuce leaves
– Herb Mayo (see below for recipe)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Herb Mayo Recipe:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh chives
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Assemble the BLT by placing a slice of sourdough on the bottom, followed by a few slices of bacon, a tomato slice, a lettuce leaf, and finally another slice of sourdough.
3. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of Herb Mayo on top of the second slice of bread.
4. Place the sandwich in the panini press or grill and cook for 3-5 minutes, or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 3-5 minutes
Chicken Caesar Wrap with Romaine
Looking for a satisfying lunch or snack that’s packed with flavor? Look no further! This Chicken Caesar Wrap with Romaine is a classic combination of juicy chicken, crispy romaine lettuce, and tangy Caesar dressing wrapped in a warm tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, shredded
– 4-6 leaves of romaine lettuce
– 2 tablespoons Caesar dressing
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: croutons or parmesan cheese for added crunch
Instructions:
1. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface.
2. Arrange the shredded chicken along the center of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
3. Add 2-3 leaves of romaine lettuce on top of the chicken.
4. Drizzle Caesar dressing over the lettuce and chicken.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, ready in just a few minutes.
Eggplant and Roasted Pepper Panini
A flavorful twist on the classic panini, this recipe combines roasted eggplant and peppers with melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying sandwich.
Ingredients:
– 2 medium eggplants, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and sliced into strips
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 4 slices of good quality bread (e.g. baguette or ciabatta)
– 2 ounces fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss eggplant and peppers with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender and lightly caramelized.
4. Butter bread slices on the outside.
5. Assemble panini by placing roasted eggplant and peppers between two bread slices, followed by mozzarella cheese.
6. Place in toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F (175°C) for 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted and bread toasted.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Pesto Mozzarella Tomato Sandwich
A flavorful twist on the classic sandwich, this Pesto Mozzarella Tomato Sandwich combines the creaminess of pesto with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes and melted mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread
– 1/2 cup freshly made pesto
– 2 large tomatoes, sliced
– 2 oz mozzarella cheese, sliced
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Spread 1-2 tablespoons of pesto on each bread slice.
3. Top with a tomato slice, followed by a mozzarella cheese slice.
4. Place the sandwiches in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Curried Chickpea Salad Sandwich
A flavorful and healthy sandwich filling that combines the creaminess of chickpeas with the warmth of curry spices. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can chickpeas (15 oz), drained and rinsed
– 2 tbsp curry powder
– 1 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of bread (whole wheat or white)
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, avocado for added texture
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine chickpeas, curry powder, mayonnaise, cilantro, bell pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Mix well to combine, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading the curried chickpea mixture on each slice of bread.
4. Add lettuce, tomato, or avocado if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Ham and Swiss with Honey Mustard
A classic combination of ham, Swiss cheese, and honey mustard gets a sweet twist with this easy recipe. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 4 slices of cooked ham
– 2 slices of Swiss cheese
– 2 tbsp of honey mustard
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. Lay two slices of bread on a flat surface.
3. Place one slice of ham, one slice of Swiss cheese, and a dollop of honey mustard on each slice of bread.
4. Top with lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
5. Place the other slice of bread on top to form a sandwich.
6. Cook in the panini press or grill for 3-4 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bread is toasted.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Grilled Vegetable and Goat Cheese Baguette
Elevate your snack game with this flavorful and colorful baguette, packed with roasted vegetables and creamy goat cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 baguette
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large eggplant, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 large zucchini, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1 red bell pepper, seeded and sliced into 1-inch pieces
– 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese (chèvre)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, toss eggplant, zucchini, bell pepper, onion, and garlic with olive oil, salt, and pepper until vegetables are evenly coated.
3. Grill the vegetables for 5-7 minutes per side, or until tender and slightly charred.
4. Meanwhile, preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
5. Slice the baguette in half lengthwise and toast in the oven for 2-3 minutes.
6. Top the toasted baguette with grilled vegetables, crumbled goat cheese, and a sprinkle of salt.
7. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana and Honey Sandwich
Peanut Butter Banana and Honey Sandwich Recipe
A classic sandwich with a sweet twist! This delicious combination of creamy peanut butter, ripe banana, and drizzled honey is the perfect treat for any time of day.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of bread (white or whole wheat)
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1 tsp pure honey
Instructions:
1. Spread 1 tablespoon of peanut butter on each slice of bread.
2. Place one to two slices of banana on top of the peanut butter.
3. Drizzle 1/2 teaspoon of honey over the banana.
4. Top with the other slice of bread, forming a sandwich.
5. Cut in half or into quarters for a more manageable snack.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe that’s ready to devour in seconds.
Enjoy your Peanut Butter Banana and Honey Sandwich!
Spicy Sriracha Turkey and Avocado Wrap
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful wrap, combining the creamy richness of avocado with the spicy kick of sriracha. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 boneless, skinless turkey breast, sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup shredded red cabbage
– 1/4 cup shredded carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, cilantro
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together turkey, sriracha, salt, and pepper.
2. Lay the tortilla flat and spread the mashed avocado along the center of the wrap.
3. Add the sliced turkey on top of the avocado, leaving a 1-inch border at the edges.
4. Top with shredded cabbage and carrots.
5. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Apple Cheddar and Walnut Sandwich
A sweet and savory twist on the classic grilled cheese, this sandwich combines the crispness of apples with the richness of cheddar and the earthiness of walnuts.
Ingredients:
– 2 slices of artisanal bread (such as baguette or ciabatta)
– 1/4 cup apple butter
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
– 1-2 crisp apples, sliced (depending on size and desired level of sweetness)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one slice, butter-side down, on the grill.
4. Top with cheese, apple slices, and walnuts.
5. Spread apple butter on the second bread slice, then place it on top of the filling.
6. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until bread is golden brown and cheese is melted.
7. Flip sandwich and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Shrimp and Mango Salad Roll
This refreshing salad roll combines succulent shrimp with sweet mango, crunchy veggies, and creamy avocado, all wrapped up in a crispy wonton wrapper. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked and chilled shrimp
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 avocado, mashed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wonton wrappers (about 8-10)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together shrimp, mango, bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. Stir in soy sauce, lime juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1/4 cup of the shrimp mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Top with mashed avocado and fold the wrapper into a triangle or square shape to enclose the filling.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None ( assembly only)
Roast Beef and Horseradish on Rye
Elevate your sandwich game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of roast beef, the pungency of horseradish, and the crunch of rye bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound roast beef (thinly sliced)
– 2 tablespoons prepared horseradish
– 4 slices rye bread
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lettuce, tomato, and mustard for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat a grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together horseradish and butter until well combined.
3. Place the rye bread slices on the grill and toast for 2-3 minutes per side, or until lightly browned.
4. Assemble the sandwiches by spreading the horseradish butter mixture onto each toasted bread slice, then topping with roast beef.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Add lettuce, tomato, and mustard if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these refreshing cold sandwich recipes! From classic cucumber tea sandwiches to Mediterranean veggie hummus wraps, and from turkey and cranberry cream cheese sandwiches to shrimp and mango salad rolls, there’s something for everyone. These no-cook sandwiches are perfect for hot summer days, picnics, or quick lunches on-the-go. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing or satisfying and savory, these 20 cold sandwich recipes will keep you cool and satisfied all season long.
