The ultimate Tomato Sandwich complete with the most amazing basil mayo and thick juicy tomatoes on soft white bread!
My Favorite Tomato Sandwich Recipe
Summer isn’t complete without a good tomato sandwich. Good, ripe, juicy garden tomatoes — is there anything better?! I love rotating between tomato sandwiches, cucumber sandwiches, and a good old peanut butter & jelly during busy summer days. But lately, I can’t get enough of this tomato sandwich!
The basil mayo is inspired by none other than Ina Garten! I’m not sure she can do any wrong! The basil mayo is the absolute perfect complement to ripe heirloom tomatoes and soft white bread. Omg, you guys have to try this sandwich!
What Is In A Tomato Sandwich
Basil Mayo Sauce:
- Mayo: Real, good-quality mayo makes all the difference! Creamy mayo is essential for the best tomato sandwich.
- Basil Leaves: Fresh basil is a must! Finely chop to evenly mix throughout the mayo.
- Salt, Pepper, & Garlic Powder: Add to your preference.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed adds a bright touch and nice acidity to the sauce.
- Olive Oil: Makes the sauce smooth and rich.
Sandwich:
- White Bread: Choose thick, good-quality bread. Soft bread is great for tomato sandwiches, but toast it if you like some crunch.
- Heirloom Tomato: Nothing beats a good, ripe, and juicy heirloom tomato! The tomatoes can make or break the sandwich.
How To Make A Tomato Sandwich
- Toast Bread (Optional): Toast the bread slices if you like them crispy.
- Mix Basil Mayo: Combine mayo, chopped basil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, lemon juice, and olive oil.
- Slice Tomato: Cut the heirloom tomato into large rounds.
- Assemble Sandwich:
- Spread basil mayo on each slice of bread.
- Place tomato slices on one slice of bread.
- Top with the other slice of bread.
- Serve: Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy immediately.
What Kind of Bread to Use for Tomato Sandwiches
I love a good, thick, and soft white bread. The juice from the tomatoes combines with the creamy basil mayo, soaking into the bread and creating a delicious combo of flavors and textures.
Avoid crusty or chewy bread like baguettes, as they overpower the soft tomatoes.
What To Serve With Tomato Sandwiches
Tomato sandwiches pair well with a variety of sides. Here are a few ideas:
- Potato Chips: The classic crunchy side!
- Fresh Fruit: Or a quick fruit salad.
- Side Salad: A simple garden salad or cucumber salad works well.
- Pickles: Adds a tangy crunch.
- Soup: Tomato or vegetable soup is a great choice.
Tomato Sandwich Variation Ideas
- Caprese: Add fresh mozzarella, basil leaves, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze.
- Avocado: Spread mashed avocado on the bread for extra creaminess.
- BLT: Add crispy bacon and lettuce for a classic sandwich.
- Pesto: Swap the basil mayo for a generous spread of pesto.
- Grilled Cheese: Add a slice of cheddar or your favorite cheese and grill until melted.
- Hummus: Spread a layer of hummus for a protein boost.
Storage
How To Store
- Separate: Keep basil mayo, tomatoes, and bread separate. Keep mayo in fridge.
- Assemble When Ready: Put the sandwich together just before eating.
These sandwiches get soggy quickly; you’ll want to eat them right after making!
More Easy Sandwich Recipes:
- Grilled Cheese made in a skillet or air fryer
- Turkey Bacon Avocado Sandwich with the best sandwich sauce
- Quickest Fish Sandwich with a quick tartar sauce
- English Muffin Sandwich my favorite quick lunch!
- Club Sandwich with a honey mustard sauce
Tomato Sandwich Recipe
Ingredients
Mayo
- 3 tablespoons mayo Note 1
- 2-3 fresh basil leaves, finely chopped
- Pinch of salt, pepper, & garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon olive oil
Sandwich
- 2 slices good, thick white bread Note 2
- 1 sliced heirloom tomato Note 3
Instructions
- If you prefer your bread toasted, begin by toasting the slices. (I do not toast.)
- In a small bowl, whisk together the ingredients listed under "mayo."
- Cut the heirloom tomato into large rounds.
- Assemble the Sandwich:Spread a thick layer (or to your preference) of basil mayo over each slice of bread.Place the tomato slices on one slice of bread.Close the sandwich with the second slice of bread.
- Cut the sandwich in half and enjoy immediately.
Recipe Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
I have no words for how good this tomato sandwich is! I have fresh heirloom garden tomatoes and I will be eating this everyday for the next few weeks my garden produces.