British Sandwich Week is an annual celebration of one of the nation’s most popular lunches. It takes place in the second week of May and celebrates the diversity of sandwiches in the UK. From classic cheese and pickles to falafel and hummus, everyone has a favourite. But, what fillings make for perfect sandwiches?
Why Do Sandwiches Make The Best Packed Lunch?
Firstly, they are incredibly convenient. They can be made in advance and stored in the fridge until you need them. This way you can prepare the night before and mornings become a lot easier. You can easily just grab your lunch on your way out of the door. Prep your overnight oats in the evening and you also have a stress-free, delicious and healthy breakfast sorted too!
Secondly, they are versatile. Whether you prefer meat, fish, vegetables or cheese, there is a sandwich filling for everyone’s tastes.
Lastly, they are cost-effective so perfect when you are looking after the pennies. They are a great way to use up leftovers and can be made using ingredients you probably already have in your kitchen. Making your sandwiches at home instead of buying them from a cafe will also save you a small fortune every month.
But Aren’t Sandwiches Boring?
They most certainly don’t have to be! Recently I have not been as organised with my packed lunches as I usually am. I have been working long hours and when I have come home I haven’t been prepping for the next day’s breakfast and lunch. Big mistake! This means that I have been making unhealthy, expensive and sometimes boring breakfast and lunch choices.
Variety Is The Spice of Life
To celebrate British Sandwich Week, here are our 10 favourite sandwich ideas for adults:
- Classic BLT – bacon, lettuce and tomato with mayonnaise
- Smoked salmon and cream cheese – add a squeeze of lemon juice and freshly cracked black pepper
- Falafel and hummus with roasted red pepper and rocket
- BBQ pulled pork – slow-cooked pork with sweet and sticky barbecue sauce, coleslaw in a brioche bun
- Turkey Cranberry Brie and Pear Sandwich – check out this delicious combo by Closet Cooking
- Italian Salami & Roasted Tomato – Add your favourite salami meats onto a baguette smeared with roasted pesto, sun-roasted tomatoes, romaine lettuce, slices of provolone cheese and thinly sliced red onion
- Sriracha Chicken Roll – make this Siracha rub by Perry’s Plate, marinade your chicken and then cook. Assemble your baguette or roll with the chicken, lettuce, tomato and onions (I like them fried.) Add some alioli or mayo if desired or, if you like your spice, make some delicious sriracha may. Try this recipe by Chilli Pepper Madness
- Prosciutto & Mozzarella Baguette – so easy but oh so delicious! Drizzle good-quality olive oil onto your baguette. Add prosciutto, mozzarella, sun-dried tomatoes and basil leaves. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar glaze and enjoy!
- Roast Pork Stuffing and Alioli Roll
- Coronation Chicken – – find an easy recipe at BBC Good Food
The options are as limitless as your imagination. You can vary the fillings or the bread. Have a classic sandwich, roll, croissant, bagel or wrap. You can also make delicious toasted sandwiches although these are probably best left for the weekend when you have more time at home.
What About Picky Kids?
With kids, you will want to keep the fillings simple. With my two I find that their absolute favourite is a simple chicken schnitzel. Unbelievably they like it as it comes – no butter, mayo alioli or pesto. That said, it is one of their favourite school lunches.
Some simple yet delicious options for kids include:
- Ham and cheese on wholemeal bread
- Peanut butter and jelly on white bread
- Tuna and sweetcorn mayo
- Chicken schnitzel – that’s un bollo de gallina empana for our fellow llanito speakers!
- Chorizo or salami and cheese
What are your favourite sandwich fillings? Do you have any tips for making sure that your kids eat their lunch at school? We love hearing from you so please do comment on our social media platforms or drop us an email.
Sharing Is Caring:
More ideas for you in our Food & Drink section:
St. Andrew’s Day Sweet Treat
Every year on the 30th November, Scotland, and Scots around the world, celebrate St. Andrew’s…
Thanksgiving Desserts
Hello and welcome to our final instalment of this year’s Thanksgiving series: Thanksgiving desserts. As…
Mashed Potato Casserole
Mashed potatoes are no doubt a timeless classic. They are more than just a side…
Creamed Leeks
Leeks, with their mild onion-like flavor and subtle sweetness, are a versatile and nutritious vegetable…
Cauliflower Cheese
Cauliflower cheese is a dish first prepared in the 17th century which has come to…
Honey Glazed Parsnips
There is something magical about transforming humble root vegetables into a culinary masterpiece. Take parsnips…
