Feta Cheese Sandwich Herbs Recipe

There’s nothing quite like the crunchy comfort of whole-grain bread paired with the creamy tang of feta and the vibrant crunch of fresh veggies. This sandwich not only fuels my body with wholesome ingredients but also takes my taste buds on a delightful Mediterranean escape.

I adore making dishes that are light, yet still full of flavor, like this Feta Cheese Sandwich with Herbs. The recipe calls for whole-grain bread and combines it with crumbled feta, fresh spinach, and tomato slices that are almost too juicy to be in a sandwich.

But that’s not all. This sandwich is made unapologetically savory, from the aromatic herbs that you might think originally belonged to Italy (oregano and parsley) to the drizzle of olive oil that makes everything rich and smooth.

Ingredients

• Feta Cheese: A tangy, creamy cheese rich in calcium and protein.

  Adds a salty flavor to the sandwich.

• Whole-Grain Bread: Provides fiber and complex carbohydrates.

  Offers a nutty, wholesome base.

• Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fat with antioxidants.

  Adds a silky texture and subtle richness.

• Garlic: A pungent allium with antibacterial properties.

  Enhances flavor depth with a gentle heat.

• Oregano: Herb with antioxidants.

  Imparts a warm, slightly peppery note.

• Tomato: Juicy and sweet, packed with vitamin C and lycopene.

  Adds freshness.

• Cucumber: Hydrating and cool with vitamins K and C.

  Provides a crisp texture.

• Spinach: Nutrient-dense leafy green rich in iron and vitamins.

  Offers a mild earthy flavor.

Ingredient Quantities

• 2 slices of whole-grain bread
• 2 oz (about 56g) feta cheese, crumbled
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 small tomato, sliced
• 1/2 small cucumber, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Begin by lightly coating both slices of whole-grain bread with olive oil, drizzling it over the bread so that it is evenly distributed across the surface.

2. Set a skillet over medium heat and lightly toast the slices of bread until golden brown on each side. Allow them to cool slightly before proceeding with the recipe.

3. In a tiny dish, bring together the feta cheese, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix well until the feta is in small enough pieces that it doesn’t interfere with the smooth texture of the spread.

4. Generously spread the feta cheese mixture over one slice of the toasted bread.

5. Place the sliced tomatoes over the feta cheese layer.

6. Place the tomato layer and add thinly sliced cucumber on top.

7. Fresh spinach leaves layered over cucumber slices.

8. Throw the fresh parsley that has been cut up into little pieces over the fresh spinach leaves.

9. Put the second slice of toasted bread on top and press down gently to hold the sandwich together.

10. If you want, you can slice the sandwich in two, and serve it right away to make sure you enjoy the fresh flavors.

Equipment Needed

1. Skillet
2. Small bowl
3. Knife
4. Cutting board
5. Spoon or small spatula
6. Measuring spoons

FAQ

• What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
  Whole-grain bread is recommended for its nutty flavor and added nutritional benefits.
• Can I substitute other herbs for oregano or parsley?
  Yes, fresh basil or mint can be great alternatives to enhance the flavor profile.
• Is it possible to use a different cheese instead of feta?
  Yes, goat cheese or ricotta cheese can be used for a different texture and taste.
• How can I add more protein to this sandwich?
  You can add slices of grilled chicken breast or turkey for added protein.
• What can I use as a substitute for olive oil?
  Avocado oil or a light vinaigrette dressing can be used as alternatives to olive oil.
• Can the sandwich be made in advance?
  It is best enjoyed fresh, but you can prepare the ingredients in advance and assemble just before serving.

Substitutions and Variations

For a creamier texture, substitute feta cheese with goat cheese.
Avocado oil can be used instead of olive oil for a decidedly different taste.
In case fresh garlic is unavailable, 1/4 tsp garlic powder can replace one garlic clove.
You can substitute dried basil for dried oregano, and you’ll get a different yet still delicious and herby flavor in your dish.
Fresh parsley can be replaced with fresh cilantro for a more aromatic twist.

Pro Tips

1. Infuse the Olive Oil Before coating the bread, consider infusing the olive oil with the minced garlic. Heat the oil gently with the garlic for a few minutes to enhance the flavor, then strain out the garlic before drizzling it over the bread.

2. Prepare the Vegetables For a more vibrant and flavorful sandwich, lightly season the tomato and cucumber slices with a pinch of salt and a dash of pepper about 5 minutes before assembling to draw out and enhance their natural flavors.

3. Feta Mixture Enhancement Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to the feta cheese mixture. This brightens the flavors and adds an extra layer of tanginess that complements the other ingredients beautifully.

4. Bread Texture Tip For extra crunch, press the bread slightly in the skillet while toasting. This helps achieve an even golden color and adds a satisfying crunch to the sandwich.

5. Herb Variation Instead of just using parsley, consider mixing in some fresh basil leaves with the spinach for added freshness and a subtle hint of sweetness that complements the feta and tomato well.