As summer is for picnics, so are sandwiches for picnics! Cold sandwiches are easy to make as they do not need much preparation time and do not have a lot of igredients. Sandwiches are actually ideal for picnics because they are easy to make, easy to carry and easy to eat as well as there is no need for utensils. But yes! Picnic sandwiches are a little different from those quick ones that you slam together between meetings and eat while working. They have to be sturdier as noone likes the surprise of a soggy sandwich that is falling apart. Picnics are meant to have fun, so instead of fretting unnecessarily about sandwiches, keep these few tips in mind to pack delicious, simple sandwiches that will not disappoint you.
Type of Bread – Choose the bread wisely as it is the foundation of any sandwich. Stick with hearty breads such as baguette, ciabatta or an Italian loaf as they have a thick crust and don’t go limp and fall apart when combined with moist ingredients like, veggies, dressings and fillings. Also, these breads don’t smush when packed tightly and kept in your picnic basket. Use fresh bread instead of toasted one as it turns hard and dry after some time.
Type of Filling – Limit the number of fillings to keep your sandwich to maintin a balance of texture and flavours. A good sandwich should have just three to five elements that include a spread of your choice, a protein, something crunchy plus some top ups to add flavour.
Layering – Ingredients should be layered strategically to avoid sogginess. Layer the spread on the inner side of both the breads before putting the ingredients in the middle as the layer prevents the bread from getting mushy. You can add another layer of salad leaves or cheese slice as protection. Sprouts, slices of red onion or raddish also add some extra crunch to the sandwich.
Best time to eat: Pack sandwiches to keep them fresh. You can use wrap them in parchment paper and place them in airtight containers. This ensures that the sandwiches stay intact and don’t get squished in the picnic basket. Keep your eye on the clock as it is always better to eat your lunch on time before hanging out as you get the best texture and flavour if you eat your sandwich within two to three hours of preparation, especially in summers.
Bottomline
With the right bread, fillings, and layering techniques, you can enjoy perfectly fresh and flavorful sandwiches that enhance your picnic experience. Pair them with some light sides and cold drinks, and you have the perfect recipe for a memorable end-of-summer outing.
