The BEST Simple Tomato Sandwich
When tomatoes are this ripe, all you need is good bread, a little mayo, and you’ve got perfection.
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Tomato sandwiches are one of the simplest, yet most beloved summer staples – especially when tomatoes are at peak ripeness. I was recently finally able to try the popular Brooklyn restaurant Red Hook Tavern. They are most well known for their burger (called the best in NYC), but what really stood out to me was their tomato sandwich. Something so simple, done so well, I just had to recreate it at home. Made with sliced heirloom tomatoes, marinated in olive oil and salt, with fresh herbs, sunflower seeds and mayo slathered on rye bread.
Fans of this classic heirloom tomato sandwich will love a BLT with spicy mayo and avocado or this tomato and mozzarella caprese sandwich.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple, done well. This recipe takes steps to elevate a basic tomato sandwich.
- Seasonal ingredients. While you can use tomatoes any time of year this sandwich is best when they are at their peak in summer.
Key Ingredients in This Recipe
- Heirloom tomato – With their superior flavor, heirloom tomatoes come from seeds passed down and are typically at least 50 years old. Look for a variety of colors.
- Rye bread – The toasted rye bread gives the sandwich structure.
- Herbs – A combination of fresh dill and basil leaves add a fresh element to the sandwich.
- Sunflower seeds – A sprinkle of roasted sunflower seeds on the mayo gives the sandwich a bit of crunch.
A full ingredient list with exact amounts can be found in the recipe card below.
Pro Tip
Marinating tomatoes in olive oil and salt helps draw out their natural juices, concentrate their flavor, and enhance their sweetness.
Swaps and substitutions
- Swap the heirlooms for another variety of tomato, like beefsteaks – something where the tomato flavor can really shine.
- The rye bread can be swapped for a tangy sourdough or simply soft white bread.
- Try adding arugula, bacon, burrata, a drizzle of balsamic glaze, roasted garlic or pesto.
How to Make the Best Simple Tomato Sandwich
Drizzle the tomato slices with olive oil and season with the flake salt. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
Spread mayo on one slice of the toasted rye bread. Sprinkle with the sunflower seeds, followed by the dill and basil. Top with the marinated tomato slices and close the sandwich. Cut in half and serve.
FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the best type of tomato to use for a tomato sandwich?
Peak-season tomatoes are the key to the best tomato sandwich. Heirloom tomatoes offer incredible flavor and beautiful colors, while beefsteak tomatoes provide slices perfect for layering. Avoid refrigerated tomatoes, as the cold can dull their flavor and texture.
Why marinate tomatoes for a tomato sandwich?
Marinating tomatoes in olive oil and salt helps draw out their natural juices and intensifies their sweet, tangy flavor. Even just 5–10 minutes of marinating can make your tomato sandwich taste more vibrant and juicy.
What’s the best mayonnaise for a tomato sandwich?
Classic southern-style tomato sandwiches often use Duke’s mayonnaise for its tangy, rich flavor, but Hellmann’s, Kewpie, or homemade mayo all work great.
Can I make a vegan tomato sandwich?
Yes! Swap traditional mayonnaise for vegan mayo or mashed avocado for a plant-based option.
Try more easy sandwich recipes:
Tried it? Loved it? Tweaked it? Leave a review below and tell me how it went – I’m all ears (and always hungry).
Simple Tomato Sandwich
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Ingredients:
- 1 large heirloom tomato, sliced
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- Flaky sea salt, as needed
- 2 slices rye bread, toasted
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons roasted sunflower seeds
- Fresh dill, chopped
- Fresh basil leaves, torn
Instructions:
- Drizzle the tomato slices with olive oil and season with the flake salt. Let sit for about 10 minutes.
- Spread mayo on one slice of the toasted rye bread. Sprinkle with the sunflower seeds, followed by the dill and basil.
- Top with the marinated tomato slices and close the sandwich. Cut in half and serve.
Notes:
Swap the heirlooms for another variety of tomato, like beefsteaks – something where the tomato flavor can really shine.
Nutrition:
Calories: 466kcal | Carbohydrates: 38g | Protein: 9g | Fat: 32g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 12g | Monounsaturated Fat: 14g | Trans Fat: 0.1g | Cholesterol: 6mg | Sodium: 555mg | Potassium: 449mg | Fiber: 6g | Sugar: 6g | Vitamin A: 1039IU | Vitamin C: 17mg | Calcium: 69mg | Iron: 3mg
DID YOU MAKE THIS?
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Hmm, hadn’t really been thinking of a tomato sandwich, but was intrigued when I saw this recipe. I tried it and was glad I did as it was ugh absolutely delicious!!
SO happy to hear it!
I could not wait to use the heirloom tomatoes that I got at the farmers market for this sandwich. It did not disappoint! I love the surprise flavor and crunch that the sunflower seeds provided along side the herbs. I can’t wait to get more tomatoes next weekend!