Take Ordinary Sandwiches to Extraordinary

Tomato, Basil & Balsamic Vinegar Panini with chicken and Mozarella

Everyone loves a good sandwich. We pack them for lunch... crave Subway... Laspadas, Quiznos.... So, how can we take our mundane, lunchbox sandwiches to something different?

1) Bread. It seems we have a tendency when shopping to go for whatever is cheapest, or our usual buy. However, switch it up once in awhile for a french bread, Ciabatta, sourdough, a bagel, or even a nice wrap. Feeling adventurous? Skip the bread and use mushroom caps as buns.

2) Texture - A difference of textures is always great. A mushy tuna melt with a crunchy bread! Mmm! A fluffy sourdough with crispy lettuce, veggies or bacon! Toast that bread... fry it -- whatever your heart's content.

3) Sauces - Honestly, this is my favorite part of most sandwiches. We love, ketchup... mayonnaise... mustard... but there are so many other wonderful flavors that can even take a cold, turkey sandwich with cheese to something new and fun! I love making my own vinegarettes and special mayo mixes. Try using things like lemon/lime juice and zest or chili powder to give your sandwich some kick. Use pesto or queso spread, as well! **RECIPES TO COME** Even making a simple butter mix with honey, maple or cinnamon, really compliments deli ham.

4) Cheeses - Just like fine wines that compliment certain dishes, the same goes with cheese. Most people I know keep packaged blocks of crap in their fridge. (Yes. It's crap.) Try getting your cheese from the deli... and try something different: my favorites are goat cheese, smoked Gouda and of course -- fresh Mozarella.

5) Alter your standard- If you always like those regular tomatoes, try sun-dried. Love tuna sandwiches? Try adding craisins to the mix. Crave veggie subs? Try sauteing them in olive oil. Add unusual ingredients: **TIP** Over-easy eggs taste good on just about every sandwich. Also... try adding french fries on them -- even crushed pretzels! 
 
There are so many simple tricks that can enhance your sandwiches. People have become accustomed to those boring, bagged lunches. Surprise your friends and family with something better. Warning, though: you will be on sandwich duty during NFL season. It's a very important job.

Grub on,

--Chels