This is the summer I am embracing sandwiches. As I mentioned yesterday, I get bored with recipes very easily. I love to try and create things that feel new and exciting to me…as well as delicious. Picnic-style sandwiches are something you all request summer after summer. But, because I have a slight hang-up about photographing sandwiches, in the past I’ve avoided them. Well, not this year. For some reason, sandwiches, especially picnic-style sandwiches, have really been exciting me. I’ve actually had fun creating the recipes. A few weeks back I shared the vegetable version of this meat and cheese sandwich. But today we’re going for the classic summer picnic sandwich with all the fixings. Well, classic, but not really…because of course, I just had to give this my own little twist.
The idea
Originally this started out as an Italian muffuletta sandwich, but after diving into the details of that sandwich, I realized I really wanted to change some things up and create my own summer picnic sandwich. And here we are. It’s an Italian meets French style summer sandwich. Not only is it really easy (no cooking involved guys), but man, it’s delicious. I’m already excited to recreate this for the 4th…in just 11 days.
The details
One of the things I love most about this sandwich is just how easy it is to create. I know I’ve said that same line almost everyday this week, but I’m really loving super simple (delicious) recipes more than ever right now. And that’s just what this summer picnic-style sandwich is. First, you’ll need a really good loaf of fresh ciabatta bread. Then some mixed olives, roasted red peppers, assorted deli meats, lots of creamy (yummy) brie cheese, and fresh arugula. And then, of course, my homemade balsamic fig vinaigrette…the secret to creating a delicious, no-cook sandwich.
The vinaigrette
This is one of my go-to vinaigrette’s and my personal favorite that always awes everyone. Even if the fig part turns you off, don’t let it stop you from making this. Balsamic and figs work together so wonderfully, especially when paired with all these summer flavors. I whisk in a little fig jam…it adds a sweetness that’s just right. You don’t know even know there are figs in this. All everyone will know is that this tastes extra special. The fig preserves really help to create a balsamic vinaigrette that’s better than any others.
The sandwich
For the sandwich, as I mentioned, find some really great fresh ciabatta bread. You’ll also need high-quality deli meats. In fact, think of this sandwich as a cheese board sandwich and grab your favorite cheese board deli meats. I use a spicy Spanish chorizo, spicy salami, and prosciutto. But any combination of your favorite deli meats will really be delicious. I usually grab everything from Whole Foods since they tend to have a really nice meat and cheese section…
Which brings me to the Brie. The Brie makes this sandwich a little French, but it’s DELICIOUS. Find something extra creamy since we’re not melting the cheese. The creamier the better. Once you have all your ingredients, simply assemble, slice, and enjoy! I love this sandwich so much. So did my family, especially my brother Creighton (he actually ate 3). Totally his kind of summer sandwich. It will be fun for family dinners spent outside or serving up at summer parties. It’s one of those recipes that’s the first to disappear!
Looking for other Summer sandwich recipes? Here are some favorites: Grilled Vegetable Burrata Sandwich with Lemon Thyme Honey Mustard Everything Cheddar Tomato Bacon Grilled Cheese Marinated Veggie Cheese Sandwich with Sun-Dried Tomato Pesto Lastly, if you make this Picnic Style Brie and Prosciutto Sandwich, be sure to leave a comment and/or give this recipe a rating! Above all, I love to hear from you guys and always do my best to respond to each and every comment. And of course, if you do make this recipe, don’t forget to tag me on Instagram! Looking through the photos of recipes you all have made is my favorite!
