Fun Lunch Friday! The Ultimate Turkey Sandwich.

Welcome to another fabulous Fun Lunch Friday, where simplicity meets awesome flavor in a way that makes lunch feel a lil’ more like a luxury experience. Whether you’re flying solo or sharing with someone special, today’s sandwich lunch is a perfect choice. It’s the kind of meal that hits all the right notes -- light, fresh, and with just enough zest to rock your palate.

Before we dive in on the recipe, let’s talk turkey. Though its roots are in America, the concept of our rockstar sandwich dates back to the 18th century, when John Montagu, the 4th Earl of Sandwich, requested a meal that didn’t interrupt his card game – thus, meat between bread was born. Fast forward to the 20th century, and turkey became a standout in the sandwich world, especially after Thanksgiving, when leftovers made for the easiest next-day meal. Today, turkey sandwiches are a go-to for anyone craving a healthy, satisfying, and easy-to-make lunch.

Ingredients

- 2 slices of extra sour sourdough bread (or your favorite bread)??

- Thinly sliced Boar’s Head turkey breast (my go-to for top quality and flavor)??

- Pre-shredded iceberg lettuce (because it saves time, and we all need a quality shortcuts)??

- Sliced cucumber

- Sliced tomatoes??

- Thinly sliced purple onion??

- Red wine vinegar??

- Extra virgin olive oil??

- Salt and pepper, to taste

Three Sauce Options to Hit You Right:

For a spicy kick: Blend chipotle peppers with adobo sauce and mayonnaise for a bold, smoky flavor that’s both creamy and fiery.??

For simplicity: Sometimes, less is more. Just add a generous spread of mayonnaise to keep it light and let the other ingredients shine.??

For a classic American/French tang: Blend mayonnaise with yellow mustard. The creamy mayo mixed with the sharp tang of mustard creates an irresistible contrast that dances across your palate with every bite.

Instructions

1. Prep the Veggies: Grab your pre-shredded iceberg lettuce (such a time-saver!) and slice the cucumber, tomatoes, and purple onion. The fresh crunch of these vegetables will add the perfect balance to your sandwich.??

2. Toast the Bread (Optional): There’s something magical about the crisp edges of toasted sourdough -- it adds a layer of flavor and texture that turns an everyday sandwich into a masterpiece. But, if you prefer soft bread, go for it!??

3. Choose Your Sauce: Pick your sauce according to your mood -- spicy, simple, or tangy. Spread it on both slices of bread to coat each bite with rich, vibrant flavor.??

4. Assemble the Sandwich: Layer your turkey breast on one slice of bread, followed by the lettuce, cucumber, tomatoes, and purple onion. Drizzle with red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil for a light, zesty touch. Sprinkle with salt and pepper for balance.??

5. Serve and Enjoy: Slice your sandwich in half, serve it with your favorite chips or some crisp veggies, and indulge in the layers of flavor you’ve created.

Chef’s Notes

For the best turkey sandwich, choose premium ingredients. I recommend Boar's Head turkey. My favorites from their menu include:

- Premium Lower Sodium Turkey Breast??

- Bold PitCraft Slow Smoked Turkey Breast??

- Classic Roast Turkey Breast??

- Oven Roasted Turkey Breast

For me, my family and dining guests, I insist on using organic vegetables. Why? Because non-organic produce often carries harmful residues from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. Organic veggies not only taste fresher, but they’re packed with more vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making them a healthier choice for you and your loved ones.

When it comes to mayonnaise, I only recommend Hellmann's or Best Foods. Depending on where you live, the name may differ -- Hellmann's on the East Coast and Best Foods on the West -- but they’re the same product. These brands merged in the 1930s, and ever since, they’ve used the same recipe, made with high-quality ingredients like cage-free eggs and real oil. The creamy richness enhances every bite without overpowering the fresh flavors of your sandwich.

To round out lunch, I suggest making a citrus water by blending fresh-squeezed lemon, lime, and orange juice into a pitcher of spring water. It’s bright, refreshing, and the perfect complement for any meal.

Here’s to a Fun Lunch Friday that turns a simple meal into a moment of pleasure. Enjoy, bon appétit, and happy Friday! Welcome to your weekend!

Your friendly culinary guide and friend,

Bryan-David Scott

联合利华 Tyson Foods