The ultimate Tomato Sandwich Recipe featuring a bright basil mayo and thick, juicy tomatoes on soft white bread — a simple, classic summer lunch.
author’s note
My go-to lunch all summer long
Summer isn’t complete without a good tomato sandwich. Ripe, juicy garden tomatoes are the star here. I rotate between tomato sandwiches, cucumber sandwiches, and peanut butter & jelly for quick summer lunches, but this tomato sandwich keeps winning. The basil mayo, inspired by Ina Garten, pairs perfectly with heirloom tomatoes and soft white bread.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Helpful Swap or Tip |
|---|---|
| Heirloom tomatoes | Use the ripest tomatoes you can find; farmers market tomatoes shine here |
| White bread | Texas toast or country-style bread works well |
| Mayo | Real, good-quality mayo yields the best creamy texture |
| Fresh basil | In a pinch, a spoonful of pesto can substitute |
| Lemon juice | Red wine vinegar can be used instead |
How To Make This Tomato Sandwich Recipe
- Toast bread (optional): Toast the slices if you prefer a bit of crunch.
- Make basil mayo: In a small bowl whisk together mayo, finely chopped basil, a pinch of salt and pepper, a little garlic powder, about 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice, and a splash of olive oil until smooth.
- Slice tomato: Cut the heirloom tomato into large rounds.
- Assemble sandwich:
- Spread a thick layer of basil mayo on each slice of bread.
- Arrange tomato slices on one slice of bread and season lightly with salt and pepper if desired.
- Top with the second slice of bread.
- Serve: Cut in half and enjoy immediately for the best texture.
What Kind of Bread to Use
Choose a thick, soft white bread for the ideal tomato sandwich. The tomato juice melds with the basil mayo and soaks into the bread for a tender, flavorful bite. Avoid very crusty or chewy breads like baguettes, which can overpower the delicate tomato slices.
chelsea’s recipe tip
What To Serve With This Tomato Sandwich
Tomato sandwiches pair well with simple sides. A few ideas:
- Potato chips: The classic crunchy side.
- Fresh fruit: Or a quick fruit salad for a lighter meal.
- Side salad: A garden or cucumber salad complements the sandwich.
- Pickles: Add a tangy crunch.
- Soup: Tomato or vegetable soup works nicely on cooler days.
Variations
- Caprese: Add fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Avocado: Spread mashed avocado for extra creaminess.
- BLT: Add crispy bacon and lettuce for a heartier sandwich.
- Grilled cheese: Add a slice of cheddar and grill until melted for a warm take.
- Hummus: Spread a layer of hummus for added protein and flavor.
Storage
- Keep components separate: Store basil mayo, tomato slices, and bread separately in the fridge.
- Assemble when ready: Put the sandwich together just before eating to prevent sogginess.
These sandwiches are best eaten immediately; they soften quickly once assembled.
More Easy Sandwich Recipes:
Sandwiches
Grilled Cheese Sandwich Recipe
Turkey
Turkey Bacon Avocado Sandwich
Sandwiches
English Muffin Sandwich (My New Favorite Lunch!)
Tomato Sandwich Recipe
Equipment
-
Small bowl
Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons mayo
- 2 to 3 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- 1/8 teaspoon salt
- 1/8 teaspoon pepper
- 1/8 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 lemon (about 1/2 teaspoon juice)
- 1/4 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 slices thick white bread
- 1 sliced heirloom tomato
Instructions
-
If you prefer toasted bread, toast the slices now. (This is optional.)
-
Juice the lemon to yield about 1/2 teaspoon. In a small bowl, whisk lemon juice with mayo, chopped basil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and olive oil until combined.
-
Cut the heirloom tomato into large rounds and season lightly if desired.
-
Spread a thick layer of basil mayo on each slice of bread. Pile the tomato slices on one slice, then top with the other slice of bread.
-
Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy right away.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be used as an approximation.