Oh, I absolutely love sharing this one with you — The Best Tomato Sandwich to Make All Summer Long Recipe is like a breath of fresh air for your taste buds. It’s simple, fresh, and comes together so quickly that it’s perfect for those hot days when you want something light but satisfying. I first discovered this gem during a particularly bountiful summer when the tomatoes in my garden were just bursting with flavor, and honestly, it’s been a staple ever since.
What makes this recipe truly special is how it elevates humble ingredients with a creamy, herby spread that brings out the best in every bite. You’ll find that it’s not just quick—it’s genuinely delicious in a way that makes you close your eyes and savor summer. If you want a sandwich that celebrates tomatoes in all their glory, this is the one to bookmark and make over and over.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Super Quick to Make: You can have this full-on fresh sandwich ready in just 10 minutes—perfect for busy days.
- Fresh & Flavorful: Combines tangy creamy herbs with juicy tomatoes for an irresistible bite every time.
- Healthy & Light: Uses whole wheat bread and low-fat yogurt to keep it wholesome without sacrificing taste.
- Perfect Summer Meal: Ideal for lazy lunches or picnics when tomato season shines bright.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This tomato sandwich isn’t fussy at all, just a few simple ingredients, each adding their own magic. Picking ripe, flavorful tomatoes is your first secret weapon here, so a quick tips on that too.
- Cream cheese: Make sure it’s softened to room temp so it spreads easily and blends smoothly.
- Low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt: Adds creaminess and a slight tang without heaviness.
- Fresh chives: Chop finely for a mild onion flavor that brightens the spread.
- Fresh dill: Offers a lovely herbaceous note that pairs wonderfully with tomato.
- Ground pepper: Freshly cracked if possible, to add just the right kick.
- Whole-wheat sandwich bread: Toast lightly for a bit of crunch and nutty flavor to balance the soft filling.
- Tomato slices: I recommend slicing about 1/4-inch thick—ripe roma or heirloom tomatoes work beautifully.
Variations
I love how this recipe lends itself to easy tweaks depending on what you have on hand or your mood—don’t hesitate to make it your own! You can add, swap, or omit herbs or even change the bread to suit your taste.
- Herb swap: I sometimes use basil instead of dill for a more classic tomato & basil combo—I just love how the flavors change.
- Add a crunch: Try adding thin slices of cucumber or radish if you want an extra crisp texture that’s refreshing.
- Bread variation: Using sourdough or a rye bread toasted lightly can transform the sandwich’s profile entirely.
- Cheese upgrade: Swap cream cheese with goat cheese or ricotta if you want a tangier or creamier bite.
How to Make The Best Tomato Sandwich to Make All Summer Long Recipe
Step 1: Make the Herby Cream Cheese Spread
In a small bowl, stir together the softened cream cheese, Greek yogurt, finely sliced chives, chopped dill, and ground pepper until it’s a smooth, creamy mixture. I like doing this with a fork and whisking until everything is fully incorporated—the herbs should be distributed evenly for every bite. Having cream cheese at room temperature is key here; if it’s too cold, the spread can be lumpy and hard to spread.
Step 2: Prepare the Toast and Tomato
Lightly toast your whole wheat bread so it’s just golden and crisp but not too hard. This creates a nice barrier so the bread won’t get soggy from the tomatoes. While the bread is toasting, slice your tomato into about ¼-inch rounds. I always choose the ripest, juiciest tomatoes I can find at farmers’ markets or homegrown for that fresh, summer sweetness.
Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich
Spread the herby cream cheese mixture evenly on one side of each slice of toast—don’t be shy here; this spread is what really makes the sandwich stand out. Layer the tomato slices on one slice over the spread, and then place the other slice of toast on top, spread side down. I always cut mine diagonally; it just feels more picnic-ready and easier to hold.
Pro Tips for Making The Best Tomato Sandwich to Make All Summer Long Recipe
- Use Room Temperature Cream Cheese: Softened cream cheese spreads smoother and blends better with the yogurt and herbs.
- Pick the Best Tomatoes: Ripe, juicy tomatoes make all the difference—avoid ones that are too watery to prevent soggy bread.
- Toast Bread Lightly: Toast just enough to support the filling but keep the sandwich tender and easy to bite.
- Don’t Overload on Tomatoes: Too many tomato slices can make the sandwich slippery—stick to 3-4 slices for perfect balance.
How to Serve The Best Tomato Sandwich to Make All Summer Long Recipe
Garnishes
I usually keep it simple—just a sprinkle of extra fresh chopped dill or chives on top if I want a little pop of green. Sometimes a light dusting of flaky sea salt gives the tomato that extra wow factor. For a bit of heat, a few red pepper flakes are a fun addition if you’re feeling adventurous!
Side Dishes
My go-to sides with this sandwich are crisp cucumber salad or a handful of crunchy baby carrots. Fresh fruit like watermelon or a chilled glass of iced tea complements the light flavors perfectly. If I want something more substantial, a small bowl of soup, like chilled gazpacho or a simple vegetable broth, pairs so nicely.
Creative Ways to Present
For summer picnics, I like wrapping each sandwich half in parchment paper tied with twine — so cute and practical. On casual brunch days, serving the sandwich open-faced on a wooden board with small bowls of extra herbs and pickles invites everyone to build their own. It’s an easy way to make it a conversation starter at the table!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers (which admittedly is rare around here!), store the sandwich wrapped tightly in the fridge to keep the bread from drying out. I recommend eating it within a day so the tomato stays fresh and the bread doesn’t get soggy.
Freezing
This sandwich doesn’t freeze well because of the fresh tomato slices and creamy spread — they lose texture and flavour after thawing. I’d suggest making it fresh whenever you can for that perfect bite.
Reheating
Since it’s best enjoyed fresh, reheating isn’t really necessary, but if you love toast warm, you can gently warm the bread slices before assembling. Avoid microwaving the whole sandwich as it makes the tomato watery and the bread chewy.
FAQs
-
Can I use other types of bread for The Best Tomato Sandwich to Make All Summer Long Recipe?
Absolutely! While the original recipe calls for whole-wheat sandwich bread for its nutty flavor and texture, sourdough, rye, or even artisan white bread will work great. Just make sure to toast it lightly to keep your sandwich from getting soggy.
-
What’s the best way to pick tomatoes for this sandwich?
Look for firm but ripe tomatoes with vibrant color and a fresh smell. Heirloom or Roma tomatoes are terrific choices as they hold up well and have deep flavor. Avoid overly soft or watery tomatoes as they can make the sandwich soggy.
-
Can I prepare The Best Tomato Sandwich to Make All Summer Long Recipe in advance?
It’s best to prepare and assemble the sandwich just before eating to enjoy the freshest textures and flavors. If you must prepare ahead, keep the tomato slices separate and toast the bread shortly before assembling.
-
Is there a vegan version of this sandwich?
Definitely! Use a vegan cream cheese and plant-based yogurt alternatives, and the herbs stay the same. Toast your favorite vegan bread, and you’ll have a delicious plant-based version that’s just as satisfying.
Final Thoughts
I hope you give The Best Tomato Sandwich to Make All Summer Long Recipe a try because it’s honestly one of those simple pleasures that makes summer feel complete in every bite. I love whipping it up on lazy afternoons or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Fresh, easy, and endlessly delicious, it’s that kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again—just like I do. So grab some good tomatoes and get ready to enjoy a slice of summer anytime you want!
Print
The Best Tomato Sandwich to Make All Summer Long Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 0 mins
- Total Time: 10 mins
- Yield: 1 sandwich
- Category: Lunch
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
This refreshing and simple tomato sandwich is the perfect light lunch or snack for summer. Combining creamy herb-spread with fresh, juicy tomato slices on toasted whole-wheat bread, it offers a delicious mix of flavors and textures that celebrate seasonal produce. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a healthy and satisfying choice to enjoy all summer long.
Ingredients
Herb Cream Cheese Spread
- 2 ounces cream cheese, at room temperature
- 1 tablespoon low-fat plain strained (Greek-style) yogurt
- 1 tablespoon sliced fresh chives
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 1/4 teaspoon ground pepper
Sandwich
- 2 slices whole-wheat sandwich bread, lightly toasted
- 4 slices tomato (about 1/4-inch thick)
Instructions
- Prepare the herb cream cheese spread: In a small bowl, stir together the cream cheese, low-fat plain Greek-style yogurt, sliced fresh chives, chopped fresh dill, and ground pepper until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.
- Toast the bread: Lightly toast the two slices of whole-wheat sandwich bread until golden but still soft enough to bite through easily.
- Assemble the sandwich: Spread the prepared cream cheese mixture evenly on one side of each slice of toasted bread. Then, layer the tomato slices over the spread on one slice.
- Complete and serve: Top the tomatoes with the second slice of bread, spread-side down. Carefully cut the sandwich in half diagonally and serve immediately to enjoy the freshness and creamy flavors.
Notes
- Use ripe, in-season tomatoes for the best flavor and juiciness.
- Adjust the amount of pepper or add salt as preferred for seasoning.
- This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh; tomatoes can make bread soggy if left too long.
- For a vegan option, substitute cream cheese and yogurt with plant-based alternatives.
- Adding a handful of fresh spinach or arugula can add extra greens and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 280
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 14g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 9g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
