Enjoy this easy and delicious vegan open-faced tomato sandwich recipe, perfect for summer. When summer arrives and tomatoes are at their peak, there’s nothing better than a fresh, juicy tomato sandwich. This vegan open-faced tomato sandwich recipe is the epitome of summer simplicity, combining ripe tomatoes, creamy cheese, healthy sprouts and fragrant basil on toasted bread. Whether you’re planning a light lunch, a picnic snack, casual appetizer, or a quick bite on a lazy afternoon, this sandwich is a delightful way to celebrate the season’s bounty.
One of the joys of this recipe is its versatility. You can keep it classic with just tomatoes and basil, or easily customize these open-faced sandwiches to suit your taste or what’s in your pantry. Swap out cream cheese for garlic aioli. Add slices of avocado or cucumber slices, or add a sprinkle of red onion for a bit of bite. Drizzle with a touch of olive oil and balsamic vinegar for added depth, and finish with a sprinkle of sea salt and cracked pepper.
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What you’ll love about this recipe:
- Only toasting bread – no cooking required. Great for hot summer days.
- Quick and easy to make.
- Customizable and versatile.
- Healthy and beautiful presentation with vibrant colors.
- Kid-friendly
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use any type of bread?
Absolutely! Sourdough is popular for its sturdiness and flavor, but ciabatta, whole-grain, or even gluten-free bread work well too.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, simply use your favorite gluten-free bread to make this recipe gluten-free.
What can I use instead of vegan cream cheese?
You can substitute vegan cream cheese with mashed avocado, hummus, garlic aioli, or a spread made from blended cashews for a creamy base.
How do I keep the bread from getting soggy?
Toast the bread well before adding the toppings, and if your tomatoes are especially juicy, you can lightly pat them dry with a paper towel.
Can I add other vegetables to this sandwich?
Definitely! Thinly sliced cucumbers, sliced avocados, red onions, mixed greens, or even arugula can add extra flavor and texture.
How do I store leftovers?
These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but you can store the components separately in the fridge for up to 2 days and assemble just before serving.
Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
It’s best to prepare and toast the bread in advance and assemble the sandwiches just before serving to keep them fresh and crisp.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Fresh basil adds a wonderful flavor, but you can use other herbs like parsley, cilantro, or chives as a substitute.
Can I add protein to this sandwich?
Yes, topping with chickpeas, sliced tofu, or tempeh can add a protein boost while keeping the sandwich vegan.
Can I use cherry tomatoes instead of large tomatoes?
Absolutely! Cherry or grape tomatoes can be sliced in half or quarters for a slightly different texture and sweetness.
What type of vegan cheese works best?
Any soft vegan cheese like cashew cheese, almond ricotta, or even a spreadable vegan feta works great for this recipe.
What are some good side dishes for this sandwich?
Serve with a fresh green salad, roasted potatoes, or a bowl of chilled gazpacho for a complete meal.
Is this recipe kid-friendly?
Definitely! The bright colors and simple flavors are appealing to kids. You can even let them choose their own toppings.
What can I use instead of balsamic vinegar?
A splash of lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, or even a drizzle of vegan pesto can add a tangy flavor in place of balsamic vinegar.
How can I add more flavor to the sandwich?
Sprinkle with nutritional yeast, crushed red pepper flakes, or smoked paprika for an extra burst of flavor.
Can I make this sandwich without bread?
For a bread-free option, serve the toppings on large lettuce leaves, sweet potato slices, or even grilled portobello mushrooms.
Cooking Tips:
- Use ripe tomatoes: Choose the ripest, juiciest tomatoes for the best flavor. Heirloom varieties are particularly delicious and colorful.
- Toast the bread: For a crisp texture that holds up to the toppings, toast the bread until golden brown.
- Pat tomatoes dry: If your tomatoes are very juicy, lightly pat them with a paper towel to avoid soggy bread.
- Spread evenly: Whether you’re using vegan cream cheese, avocado, or garlic aioli, spread it evenly on the toast to ensure every bite is flavorful.
- Layer thoughtfully: Place heavier ingredients like avocado on the bottom and delicate herbs like basil or sprouts on top to keep everything balanced.
- Season well: A pinch of salt and pepper on the tomatoes brings out their natural sweetness and enhances overall flavor.
- Add acidity: A drizzle of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon brightens up the sandwich and adds a nice tang.
- Serve immediately: These sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh to maintain the crispness of the toast and the vibrancy of the toppings.
- Experiment with toppings: Try adding roasted red peppers, pickled onions, or arugula for extra layers of flavor.
- Cut cleanly: Use a sharp knife to slice the sandwich, which helps keep the toppings intact and makes for an attractive presentation.
Make-ahead and Storage Tips
- Prep ingredients in advance: Slice the tomatoes, and any additional toppings ahead of time. Store them separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Toast bread later: For the best texture, toast the bread just before assembling the sandwiches. This prevents the bread from becoming soggy.
- Store components separately: Keep the spread (like vegan garlic aioli or cream cheese) and toppings in separate containers to maintain freshness.
- Assemble before serving: To enjoy the best flavor and texture, assemble the sandwiches just before serving. This keeps the bread crisp and the toppings fresh.
- Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store the sandwiches with the bread and toppings separated. Re-toast the bread and reassemble when ready to eat.
- Avoid freezing: Due to the fresh ingredients, these sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh and are not ideal for freezing.
More Sandwich and Wrap Recipes
Open-Faced Tomato Sandwich
Print RecipeIngredients
- 4 slices of your favorite bread (such as sourdough, whole grain, gluten free, or ciabatta)
- 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
- ½ cup vegan cream cheese or cashew cheese
- fresh basil leaves
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- salt and pepper to taste
- sliced avocado, cucumber or thinly sliced red onion, sprouts, mixed greens or arugula for topping (optional)
Instructions
- Lightly toast the bread slices until golden brown.
- Spread a layer of vegan cream cheese or cashew cheese on each slice of toasted bread.
- Arrange tomato slices on top of the cheese-covered bread. Add any toppings such as spouts. red onion, or avocado slices if using.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Top with fresh basil leaves. Enjoy immediately or serve chilled.
