Mama's Best Broiled Tomato Sandwich Recipe

Name: Mama's Best Broiled Tomato Sandwich
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 2
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar; 4 ripe tomatoes, sliced; 3 tablespoons mayonnaise; 0.5 teaspoon dried parsley; 0.25 teaspoon dried oregano; 0.25 teaspoon black pepper; 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided; 4 slices bread, lightly toasted

Cook Time: 5 minutes

Servings: 2

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
4 ripe tomatoes, sliced
3 tablespoons mayonnaise
teaspoon dried parsley
teaspoon dried oregano
teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese, divided
4 slices bread, lightly toasted

Directions:

Preheat the oven broiler to high.
Whisk olive oil and balsamic vinegar together in a shallow bowl until well combined. Add sliced tomatoes to the bowl and let them marinate, stirring occasionally.
In a separate small bowl, combine mayonnaise, dried parsley, dried oregano, and black pepper. Stir in 4 teaspoons of Parmesan cheese and mix until smooth.
Arrange the toasted bread slices on a baking sheet. Spread the mayonnaise mixture generously over each slice of bread.
Top each slice with the marinated tomatoes, ensuring an even distribution, and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the tomatoes.
Place the baking sheet under the preheated broiler and cook until the cheese turns golden brown, about 5 minutes.
Serve hot, either open-faced or closed as a sandwich, according to your preference.

Nutrition Facts (per serving):

Calories: 509
Total Fat: 35g (45% Daily Value)
Saturated Fat: 6g (31% Daily Value)
Cholesterol: 15mg (5% Daily Value)
Sodium: 605mg (26% Daily Value)
Total Carbohydrate: 43g (16% Daily Value)
Dietary Fiber: 5g (17% Daily Value)
Total Sugars: 14g
Protein: 10g (19% Daily Value)
Vitamin C: 56mg (62% Daily Value)
Calcium: 186mg (14% Daily Value)
Iron: 4mg (21% Daily Value)
Potassium: 767mg (16% Daily Value)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is not available for all ingredients. The values are based on available data.

Origin Story

The broiled tomato sandwich, though simple, has deep roots in American cuisine. Originating in Southern kitchens, it is a variation of the classic tomato sandwich that often featured fresh, raw tomatoes paired with mayonnaise. The addition of broiling and seasoning with balsamic vinegar and Parmesan cheese adds a unique twist to this nostalgic dish. This version, known as "Mama's Best Broiled Tomato Sandwich," elevates the traditional recipe by incorporating bold flavors that reflect the warmth and simplicity of family cooking.

Regional Variations

While this recipe has become a staple across the United States, regional variations exist. In the South, the traditional tomato sandwich often relies on thick, hearty slices of white bread, and in some areas, a generous dollop of mayonnaise is used. In contrast, this broiled version with balsamic vinegar and Parmesan brings an Italian influence, adding a layer of complexity and depth of flavor. Some versions also include fresh basil, reflecting Mediterranean culinary traditions.

Differences from Similar Dishes

What sets Mama's Best Broiled Tomato Sandwich apart from other tomato-based sandwiches is the method of broiling. Unlike the typical raw tomato sandwich or even grilled cheese sandwiches with tomatoes, this recipe incorporates a rich balsamic marinade for the tomatoes and a broiling step that melts the cheese and enhances the flavors. The Parmesan adds a savory, umami kick, and the balance between the tangy vinegar and the sweetness of the tomato makes this sandwich a unique variation on a classic.

Where Its Typically Served

This sandwich is typically served in casual dining settings, whether at home as a simple lunch or in cafes as a gourmet sandwich option. The sandwichs versatility means it can also be an appetizer at dinner parties or barbecues, especially during tomato season. Its open-faced nature makes it visually appealing as a finger food for gatherings. The dish also shines when paired with a light salad or served as a side with soup, making it perfect for a quick yet flavorful meal.

Interesting Facts

1. The tomato sandwich was originally a Depression-era dish, made with basic ingredients that were easy to come bytomatoes, bread, and mayonnaise. It was a way to stretch meager resources into a satisfying meal.

2. Tomatoes, which are technically a fruit, are rich in vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants like lycopene, which contribute to heart health. This makes the broiled tomato sandwich a healthy yet indulgent option!

3. The popularity of balsamic vinegar in this dish highlights a growing trend in American cuisine to incorporate Italian flavors into traditional comfort food. The slightly sweet, tangy vinegar pairs perfectly with ripe tomatoes and adds a gourmet touch to an otherwise simple dish.

FAQ about Mama's Best Broiled Tomato Sandwich Recipe

If you have any leftovers, it's best to store the sandwich components separately. The marinated tomatoes and mayo mixture should be kept in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days. The toasted bread will become soggy if stored with the tomatoes, so it's better to store the bread separately and re-toast it before serving.

You can prepare the tomato marinade and mayo mixture ahead of time. Store both in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. However, for the best texture and flavor, it’s recommended to assemble and broil the sandwich just before serving.

Yes, you can use any bread you like. A crusty baguette, sourdough, or even focaccia would work well. If you prefer a softer sandwich, you can opt for a whole wheat or white sandwich bread, but make sure it’s lightly toasted to avoid sogginess.

If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute it with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar. The flavor won’t be exactly the same, but the acidity will still complement the tomatoes. You can also try a splash of olive oil and a little bit of honey to mimic the sweetness of balsamic vinegar.

Absolutely! Some people like to add fresh basil, mozzarella, or even crispy bacon to elevate the flavor. You can also drizzle some extra olive oil or balsamic glaze on top after broiling for an added burst of flavor.

Yes! You can make this sandwich vegan by using a plant-based mayonnaise and skipping the Parmesan cheese, or using a vegan Parmesan alternative. The marinated tomatoes and toasted bread will still provide a delicious base for the sandwich.

Marinated tomatoes can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to use them within 24 hours for optimal flavor and freshness. The longer they sit, the more the texture of the tomatoes will change.

Yes, you can experiment with other herbs like basil, thyme, or rosemary. Fresh herbs will also work wonderfully. Just be sure to adjust the quantities to your taste preference, as different herbs can have varying levels of intensity.

Yes, store-bought mayonnaise is perfectly fine for this recipe. If you prefer, you can make your own mayonnaise for a fresher taste. The mayo mixture is key to adding creaminess and flavor to the sandwich.

To add a spicy kick, you can include some red pepper flakes in the mayo mixture or drizzle hot sauce over the tomatoes before broiling. Jalapeño slices or a spicy mustard could also be added for an extra layer of heat.

Comments

Deborah Jackson

04/24/2024 09:00:50 AM

Absolutely amazing! This recipe elevates a simple tomato sandwich to a whole new level with an Italian flair. I toasted thick slices of Italian bread and seasoned the tomatoes with a pinch of salt. Adjusting the amount of herbs in the mayo mixture to my liking, I topped the tomatoes with fresh basil and a sprinkle of both mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. The balsamic marinade gave the sandwich a delightful tangy kick. Delicious!

Aaron Perez

08/13/2024 06:27:54 AM

This dish was delicious, but it could have been even better with the addition of one minced clove of garlic mixed into the mayo mixture. I also enjoy it with some fresh basil.

Donald Hall

02/24/2025 11:42:08 AM

I whipped up this quick lunch today on short notice. I had to tweak the original recipe a bit due to the time crunch. I sliced a French roll in half lengthwise and spread mayo on it. After that, I layered on some tomatoes and sprinkled them with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper. I then topped it all off with thin slices of Monterey Jack cheese and Parmesan. I broiled it for 5 minutes, and finished it off with a sprinkle of basil on top, cut diagonally. Absolutely delicious - bellissimo!

Benjamin Roberts

03/15/2023 07:37:08 AM

Fantastic! I enhanced the mayo mixture with freshly minced garlic and added a layer of basil beneath the tomatoes.

Pamela Roberts

07/31/2024 10:05:44 PM

Excellent recipe! I enhanced it by including chopped basil and oregano in the marinade, opting for just 2 tomatoes which turned out to be plenty. I also added an equal portion of shredded mozzarella to the cheese mixture. I doubled the marinade and utilized the excess to drizzle over the completed open-face sandwiches.

Michael Harris

12/19/2022 08:37:47 PM

I absolutely adore this recipe, and my guests did too! I've made it twice now - the first time following the recipe exactly, and the second time I chopped the tomatoes roughly before marinating. I also drained them before adding them to the dish. I served this with a sourdough baguette, turning it into a delightful appetizer along with wine. It was a huge success yet again!

Linda Hill

08/18/2023 03:08:18 AM

My husband and I absolutely enjoyed this recipe. We decided to toast the Texas Toast beforehand to prevent it from getting soggy, which turned out to be a great idea. I had to double the mayo and parmesan mixture to ensure the toasts were well-covered. I opted not to add salt but topped it with shredded parmesan and mozzarella instead of grated cheese. It was incredibly tasty! I will definitely be making this again. Just a heads up, it can get a bit oily due to the oil and vinegar marinade, so I might reduce the amount of oil next time.

Stephanie Walker

02/05/2024 03:13:48 AM

I have been preparing this recipe for around 12 years and we absolutely adore it! It's always a special occasion when I whip it up for everyone. It's incredibly easy to make and the sandwich has a wonderfully distinct and delicious flavor.

Jack Torres

09/27/2023 09:47:52 AM

Absolutely fantastic. It has become a must-have in our household.

Catherine Walker

07/15/2023 08:37:34 AM

Absolutely delicious! I've made it several times.

Patrick Sanchez

04/30/2024 10:23:15 AM

Absolutely delicious! I followed the recipe exactly as written and I absolutely loved it. I will definitely be making it again in the future, and I am already thinking of ways to switch it up (using different types of bread, adding meats). However, for me, tonight's version with Roma tomatoes from my garden on toasted whole wheat Italian sliced bread was delightful. The dressing and balsamic tomatoes paired perfectly together.

Jose Baker

09/09/2024 12:56:47 AM

I recently tried out this recipe and it was absolutely delicious! I substituted provolone cheese instead of the recommended cheese and it turned out fantastic. The seasoning with mayo was just right, and I also added some room temperature butter for my own taste preference. While some reviews mentioned adding meat, I believe the essence of this recipe lies in its simplicity as a "Tomato Sandwich." Adding meat might be a good option, but it deviates from the original intention of the dish.

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