The Ultimate Pool Sandwich

Cook Time: 10 minutes

As a child, summer days at the community pool meant endless snacks on popsicles and chips, avoiding the dreaded trip home for lunch. Mayonnaise-based sandwiches didnt last in the sun, and peanut butter sandwiches werent much better. Today, Ive found a solution that keeps poolside lunches simple, fun, and mess-free: stuffed round sandwiches.

These sandwiches are perfect for wet hands and travel well from the kitchen to the pool. Prepping is easy the night before or in the morning. Simply take a round loaf of bread, scoop out the interior, and fill it with your favorite deli meats, cheeses, and fresh lettuce. A brush of buttery mustard on the crust adds flavor and a lovely golden finish when baked.

Ingredients

• 1 round bread loaf
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons yellow mustard
• 2 cups shredded iceberg lettuce
• 1/2 pound sliced deli ham
• 1/2 pound sliced deli turkey
• 6 slices Swiss cheese
• 6 slices Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350F (175C).
2. Slice a wide circle from the top of the bread loaf, like creating a soup bowl. Carefully remove the top and set aside.
3. Hollow out the bread, leaving the walls intact. Save the scooped-out interior for croutons or another use.
4. In a small bowl, melt butter with mustard in the microwave for about 15 seconds and stir until smooth.
5. Brush the butter-mustard mixture over the exterior of the bread loaf and the removed top. Place both on a baking sheet and bake for 10 minutes. Allow to cool.
6. Pat the lettuce dry and place a layer at the bottom of the hollowed loaf. Add cheese, then ham and turkey. Repeat until the loaf is filled.
7. Replace the bread top, wrap the sandwich in plastic wrap, and place it on a baking sheet. Weigh it down with another baking sheet for an even press.
8. Refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight. Serve whole or slice into convenient triangular portions for poolside enjoyment.

Tips and Variations

• For extra texture, sprinkle everything bagel seasoning, poppy seeds, or sesame seeds on the butter-mustard coating.
• Try honey mustard or grainy mustard instead of yellow mustard for a sweeter or more complex flavor.
• Use any deli meats or cheeses on hand, or swap in shredded rotisserie chicken for a summer twist.
• Adjust baking time if using higher sugar mustards, starting with 5 minutes to prevent over-browning.

Storage

This sandwich can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep it wrapped whole or pre-sliced for quick serving.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 678
• Total Fat: 29g (37% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 14g (70% DV)
• Cholesterol: 100mg (33% DV)
• Sodium: 1877mg (82% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 67g (25% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 4g (14% DV)
• Total Sugars: 9g
• Protein: 37g (74% DV)
• Vitamin C: 4mg (5% DV)
• Calcium: 645mg (50% DV)
• Iron: 6mg (32% DV)
• Potassium: 556mg (12% DV)

*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Individual values may vary. Consult a doctor or dietitian for medically restrictive diets.

The Story Behind the Ultimate Pool Sandwich

The Ultimate Pool Sandwich traces its origins to summer gatherings by community pools in the United States during the late 20th century. Families often faced the dilemma of feeding children without the hassle of returning home or worrying about food spoiling under the sun. Traditional sandwiches with mayonnaise or delicate ingredients proved impractical, which led home cooks to develop a more robust, portable alternative. By hollowing out a round loaf of bread and filling it with layers of deli meats, cheeses, and fresh vegetables, they created a sandwich that was not only easy to transport but also resilient in hot weather. Over time, this idea evolved into the indulgent, fully-stuffed version known today as the Ultimate Pool Sandwich.

Regional Variations and Features

While the core concept of the pool sandwich is widely American, regional adaptations are common. In the Midwest, it often features hearty layers of smoked turkey and Swiss cheese, reflecting the areas love for robust deli meats. On the East Coast, it may include extra condiments like honey mustard or pickled vegetables, giving it a tangier flavor profile. West Coast versions sometimes incorporate avocado or sprouts, aligning with the regions emphasis on fresh, lighter ingredients. Despite these variations, the central ideaa hollowed bread loaf stuffed generouslyremains consistent across the country.

How It Differs from Similar Sandwiches

Unlike traditional sub sandwiches or paninis, the Ultimate Pool Sandwich is distinguished by its unique bread preparation and presentation. Hollowing out a round loaf creates a natural bowl that holds the ingredients firmly, preventing them from spilling during transport. The butter-and-mustard coating, baked onto the bread, adds flavor while maintaining structural integrity. Other sandwiches may rely on flat breads or baguettes, which dont offer the same capacity or aesthetic appeal. This combination of form and function sets the pool sandwich apart from ordinary deli creations.

Where It Is Commonly Served

The Ultimate Pool Sandwich is a favorite for outdoor summer events. It is often served at pool parties, picnics, and family gatherings where convenience and portability are priorities. Its size and shareable nature make it ideal for feeding multiple people at once, and it pairs well with side salads, chips, or fruit. Some deli shops and sandwich cafes also offer similar round stuffed sandwiches, but they are most beloved when homemade and customized for family tastes.

Interesting Facts

• The hollowed bread interior is rarely wasted; it can be toasted and used as croutons or breadcrumbs.
• The sandwich can be prepared the night before, allowing flavors to meld and making it even easier to serve the next day.
• Despite being called the pool sandwich, it has found popularity beyond summer pools, often appearing at sports events, road trips, and potlucks.
• The combination of butter and mustard on the bread surface was originally designed to prevent sogginess from lettuce and meats, a clever solution for transportable meals before modern food storage options.
• Many families have personalized this recipe by adding regional cheeses, roasted vegetables, or even spicy condiments, making it a versatile canvas for creative cooks.

FAQ about The Ultimate Pool Sandwich

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