We're Celebrating Sandwiches!

Sandwiches make the perfect compact meal for all seasons, whether they’re being hauled out to picnics in the summer or squished into packed backpacks in the fall. Chances are, you enjoy these convenient staples year round—and admit it, maybe you don’t always give them the all-star treatment that they deserve. August is Sandwich Month, so celebrate by learning more about the history of the sandwich, and trying out some exciting new variations!

Once upon a time…

Legend has it that the word “sandwich” originated late one London evening in 1762, when an English nobleman, John Montagu, the Fourth Earl of Sandwich, got a little too preoccupied with the gambling games he was playing into the wee hours of the night. Feeling hungry but refusing to forgo another round of cards, he had a server to bring over two slices of bread stuffed with meat—a previously unheard of combination—so that he could eat a balanced meal without needing to take a break. Thus, the term “sandwich” was born, and the people rejoiced!

Whether Sir Montagu was successful in his gambles or not, there’s no question that the rest of us have sandwiched ourselves in his footsteps. We often rely upon the compact simplicity of sandwiches for quick, easy nourishment when our lives feel anything but compact and simple. But simple doesn’t have to mean boring.

Spice It Up

Whether you call it a sub, a gyro, a Panini, a hoagie, a muffelleta, a po-boy, or even a wrap, there’s no lack of worldly sandwich options to play around with.

Check out this comprehensive alive guide on how to pack a powerful punch of nutrients into your lunchtime staple. Looking past the usual bologna or PB&J allows for a wealth of healthy, unique alternatives. Try:

• an Almond Pear Sandwich  with a little goat cheese for a savoury twist.
• Tofu Pitas with Chunky Peanut Sauce as a great option for Meatless Mondays.
• Salmon Salad on Rye for a tangy boost of heart-healthy omega-3.

Do you have your own novel sandwich ideas? Share the bread of your labour with us via Twitter and Facebook, or in the blog comments below.