🍅 The “Southern Classic” Tomato Sandwich
This isn’t just a sandwich; it’s an experience. The goal is a messy, juicy, salt-flecked delight that requires a napkin (or three).
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Prep time: 5 minutes
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Servings: 1 sandwich
Ingredients
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2 slices High-quality white bread (think thick-cut Pullman or classic sourdough)
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1 large Heirloom or Beefsteak tomato (must be ripe and room temperature)
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2 tbsp Duke’s Mayonnaise (or your favorite high-quality mayo)
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To taste Flaky sea salt and freshly cracked black pepper
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Optional: A squeeze of lemon juice or a sprinkle of fresh chives
Instructions
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Prep the Tomato: Slice the tomato into thick, 1/2-inch slabs.
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The “Salt Sweat”: Place the slices on a paper towel and sprinkle lightly with salt. Let them sit for 2 minutes. This intensifies the flavor and prevents the sandwich from becoming too soggy.
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The Mayo Barrier: Slather a generous tablespoon of mayonnaise on both slices of bread, reaching all the way to the edges.
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Assemble: Layer the tomato slices onto one piece of bread. Don’t be afraid to overlap them.
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Season: Add another pinch of salt and a healthy amount of black pepper directly onto the tomatoes.
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Close and Compress: Top with the second slice of bread and press down gently to help the juices marry with the mayo.
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Serve: Cut diagonally and eat immediately.
💡 Notes & Tips
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The Bread: Do not toast the bread for a traditional version. You want the soft bread to absorb a little bit of the tomato juice and mayo to create a “sauce.”
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The Mayo: In the South, Duke’s is the gold standard because it’s sugar-free and tangy. Whatever you use, don’t be shy with it—it acts as a waterproof barrier for the bread.
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The Tomato: If it’s winter and tomatoes are mealy/pale, wait until summer. This recipe lives and dies by the quality of the produce.
🥗 Nutritional Info (Per Serving)
Values are estimates based on standard white bread and full-fat mayo.
| Nutrient | Amount |
| Calories | 340 kcal |
| Total Fat | 22g |
| Carbohydrates | 28g |
| Protein | 6g |
| Fiber | 2g |
✨ Benefits
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Lycopene Boost: Tomatoes are packed with lycopene, an antioxidant linked to heart health and UV protection.
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Hydration: Tomatoes are about 94% water, making this a refreshing summer lunch.
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Vitamin C: Provides a solid hit of your daily requirement for immune support.
❓ Common Questions (Q&A)
Q: Can I add lettuce or bacon?
A: You can, but then it’s a BLT. The Tomato Sandwich is a specific cult favorite because of its simplicity. Adding more ingredients distracts from the star of the show.
Q: Is it okay to use toasted bread?
A: If you hate soft bread, go ahead and toast it lightly! It provides more structural integrity, though purists might give you a side-eye.
Q: What is the best tomato variety?
A: Look for “Heirloom” varieties like Cherokee Purple or Brandywine. They have the perfect balance of acid and sugar.