Tomato Sandwich: A Classic Pan con Tomate-Inspired Recipe

Updated: April 5, 2023

Recipe Details

• Total Time: 10 minutes (Quick & Easy)

• Rating: ★★★★★ 5/5 (Based on 1,929 reviews)

• Comments: 536 comments (View Comments)

• Featured In: The Tomato Sandwich Perfected

Ingredients (Serves 1)

• 2 slices crusty bread (e.g., sourdough or country loaf; toasted to golden crispness)

• 1 medium ripe tomato (preferably firm, juicy, and seedless for a smoother texture)

• 2 cloves garlic (crushed, for garlicky flavor)

• 1 tsp extra-virgin olive oil (for toasting)

• 1–2 tbsp mayonnaise (plain or herb-infused, to taste)

• 1/4 small red onion (thinly sliced; white onion works too)

• 2 strips bacon (optional, cooked until crispy and drained)

• Pinch of flaky sea salt (to enhance tomato sweetness)

• Freshly ground black pepper (to taste, optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Garlicky Toasted Bread

Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F) or use a toaster. Brush one side of each bread slice with olive oil, then rub the crushed garlic evenly over the oiled surface. Toast the bread in the oven for 5–6 minutes until golden and crisp, or in a toaster until lightly browned. Set aside.

Step 2: Rub Tomato Guts onto Bread

Wash the tomato thoroughly, then cut it in half lengthwise. Gently rub the cut side of the tomato over one toasted bread slice, pressing firmly to release its flesh, juice, and natural sweetness. Repeat with the second slice for even coverage. This step infuses the bread with the tomato’s essence and creates a juicy base.

Step 3: Assemble the Sandwich

On the first toasted bread slice (now coated in tomato), layer:

• Thinly sliced fresh tomato (drain excess moisture if the tomato is very juicy)

• A generous dollop of mayonnaise (or garlic aioli for extra depth)

• Thinly sliced red onion (adds a sharp, crisp contrast)

• Crispy bacon strips (if using, placed atop the onion)

Top with the second toasted bread slice to complete the sandwich.

Step 4: Season and Serve

Sprinkle the sandwich lightly with sea salt and black pepper. Enjoy immediately while the bread remains crisp and the flavors meld. Due to its juicy nature, it’s best eaten over a plate or sink (to catch drips) with plenty of napkins.

Tips

• For a cleaner bite, use a mandoline to slice tomatoes paper-thin and drain excess moisture with a paper towel.

• Substitute mayonnaise with hummus or guacamole for a lighter twist.

• This recipe pairs exceptionally well with a side of arugula for added freshness.

Note: The tomato sandwich’s vibrant flavors and ease of preparation make it a timeless summer staple, balancing classic comfort with refined simplicity.