When you think of lunch meat and bread coming together, a classic sandwich probably springs to mind. But these two staples have a world of possibilities, and the types of meals they can become, for breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks, are endless. We’ll show you how to take these essential ingredients from ordinary to satisfying, along with ideas for making them healthier and tastier to boot.
Why It Matters to You to Differentiate Lunch Meat and Bread
Mastering the right combination of deli meat and bread increases the balance between flavor and texture in meals. Whether you’re whipping up a quick snack or an elaborate dinner, the fundamentals are your friend.
How to Pick the Right Bread for Your Deli Meat
Certain bread go best with certain types of lunch meat:
- Ham: Sweet breads such as brioche or Hawaiian rolls complement the salty taste of ham.
- Turkey: Pair lean turkey with whole-grain or sourdough bread for a healthier meal.
- Roast Beef: Rye or ciabatta bread complements the bold, savory taste of roast beef.
- Salami: Salami, which has a robust flavor, works nicely with Italian focaccia or crusty baguettes.
Hang on the wall, Top your dishes with spreads
Spreads such as mustard, pesto or hummus make your lunch meat a lot more tasty. Or get fancy and use cranberry sauce or fig jam for a sweet-savory riff. You can read about healthier bread options in this article about avocado toast.
Breakfast Recipes: Start Your Day with Deli Meat and Bread
Using deli meat and bread in breakfast recipes is an excellent way to kickstart your morning with a protein-packed meal. Here are a few ideas.
Breakfast Sandwiches with Turkey or Ham
Create a hearty breakfast sandwich by layering turkey or ham on toasted ciabatta or bagels. Add scrambled eggs, spinach, and melted cheese for a nutritious, filling option.
Egg Cups with Lunch Meat
Line muffin tins with slices of ham or turkey. Crack an egg into each cup, add shredded cheese and diced veggies, and bake until set. These portable egg cups are ideal for busy mornings.
Open-Faced Breakfast Toast
Toast sourdough bread, spread it with avocado, and top it with a slice of ham or turkey and a fried egg. Garnish with chili flakes and fresh herbs for added flavor.
Lunch Recipes: The Deli Meat and Bread Makeover
Lunch is the ideal time to get creative with deli meat and bread. Here are a few notable recipes.
Cobb Salad Sandwich
Take the flavors of a Cobb salad and put them into your sandwich, layering turkey, crispy bacon, hard-boiled eggs and blue cheese dressing on a baguette. Find out more about what makes a Cobb salad a Cobb salad in this article.
Monte Cristo Sandwich
This sweet-savory classic stacks ham, Swiss cheese and grape jelly between slices of brioche. Fry the sandwich in egg batter to golden for a delightfully filling midday treat.
Gourmet Paninis
Make a panini with focaccia or ciabatta bread. Layer raw roast beef or turkey, mozzarella cheese and pesto, then press and grill until crispy. Paninis are a great way to step your lunch up.
And They Turn Deli Meat and Bread Into Hearty Meals
Dinner is a chance to get creative with deli meat and bread and make more than a sandwich.
Stuffed French Bread
Hollow out a loaf of French bread and stuff it with sautéed roast beef, caramelized onions and shredded cheese. Bake until the bread is crisp and the filling is bubbling. This dish is a great option for family dinners.
Pizza Bread with Ham
For pizza, put marinara sauce on Italian bread, top with diced ham, mozzarella cheese and vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. Bake until the cheese melts and is golden.
Mini Sliders with Deli Meat
Use soft dinner rolls to make sliders. Layer ham or turkey with caramelized onions and horseradish mayo, and then bake until warmed. These are ideal for casual dinners or hosting guests.
Snacks and Appetizers: Marveled and Seasoned
Simple snacks and appetizers made with deli meat and bread are satisfying. Here are some quick options.
Ham and Cream Cheese Rolls
Slather cream cheese on a piece of bread, add ham and roll tight. Slice into bite-size rounds for a savory do-ahead starter.
Turkey and Cheese in Bread Cups
Line muffin tins with slices of bread, fill with turkey, shredded cheese and sour cream, and bake to a golden finish. These cups of bread make for a filling snack.
Pretzel Bites Filled with Lunch Meat
Dunk ham or turkey in pretzel dough, bake and serve with mustard for dipping. These salty nibbles are perfect for parties or casual noshing. For more fast ways to put a meal on the table, check out this recipe for vegetable stir-fry.
Healthy Twists: How To Make Deli Meat And Bread A Healthy Choice
Here are some ways you can make your meals healthier:
- Pick Whole-Grain Bread: Whole-grain or sprouted bread adds fiber and nutrients.
- Choose Lean Meats: Turkey and chicken breast have less sodium and fat than salami or bologna.
- Add Fresh Vegetables: Add fresh spinach, arugula, cucumbers, or tomatoes for vitamins and texture.
Deli meats should be stored properly in order to remain fresh. Seal in airtight containers and refrigerate promptly. For safety tips, see USDA guidelines.
FAQs About Using Deli Meat and Bread
What Are the Best Deli Meats to Use for Sandwiches?
Turkey and chicken breast are the leanest choices, while ham and roast beef have a more decadent flavor.
Is Lunch Meat Good For Meal Prep?
Yes, you can prep deli meat ahead of time — sliced or diced for salads, wraps, or pasta. It also makes a nice topping for baked potatoes or pizzas.
What Are Some Creative Ways to Use Up Leftovers?
Leftover deli meat can be slipped into omelets, quesadillas, fried rice, or savory crepes. It’s also nice in soups and casseroles.
Is Deli Meat Healthy?
To opt for a healthier option, choose nitrate free and low-sodium deli meat. When served with whole-grain bread and fresh vegetables, it becomes a well-balanced meal.
Conclusion
From full breakfasts to dinners and snacks to gourmet treats, deli meat and bread provide near limitless opportunities for creativity and deliciousness. [And by playing around with combos, garnishes and cooking methods, you can have one glorious dish after another despite their humble pedigree.] For additional inspiration and recipes, visit Primed Recipes.