The Mediterranean Veggie sandwich from Schlotzsky's features fresh spinach, succulent cucumbers, juicy tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and zesty black olives layered on warm, toasted artisan bread, delivering a vibrant and flavorful taste of the Mediterranean.
Equipments
- Bread knife
- Cutting board
- Toaster or sandwich press
- Chef’s knife
- Vegetable peeler (optional, for cucumbers)
- Small spatula or spreader
Ingredients
- 1 artisan sandwich bun or ciabatta roll
- 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup sliced cucumber
- 2–3 slices tomato
- 2 tablespoons crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons sliced black olives
Fresh spinach leaves should be thoroughly washed to remove any dirt, ensuring a crisp texture in your sandwich. Choose ripe, firm tomatoes to maintain juiciness without making the bread soggy. Crumbled feta cheese adds a distinctive tang, so use high-quality, authentic feta for the best flavor. Black olives provide a salty, briny contrast that complements the fresh vegetables well. Your Mediterranean Veggie sandwich from Schlotzsky's copycat menu will deliver the vibrant, flavorful taste of the Mediterranean with these carefully selected ingredients.
Instructions
- Instructions:
- Slice the artisan sandwich bun or ciabatta roll in half using a bread knife.
- Lightly toast both halves of the bread in a toaster or sandwich press.
- Rinse and pat dry the spinach leaves.
- Slice cucumber (peeling if desired) and tomato using a chef’s knife on the cutting board.
- Layer fresh spinach leaves evenly on the bottom half of the toasted bread.
- Add sliced cucumber on top of the spinach.
- Arrange tomato slices over the cucumber.
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese generously over the tomatoes.
- Top with sliced black olives.
- Cover with the top half of the toasted bread.
- Press lightly, cut in half if desired, and serve immediately.
Substitution
The Mediterranean Veggie sandwich from Schlotzsky's copycat menu combines fresh spinach, crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, tangy feta cheese, and savory black olives on toasted artisan bread for a deliciously vibrant flavor. If you don't have artisan bread or ciabatta rolls, whole wheat or multigrain sandwich bread works well as a substitute. You can replace feta cheese with goat cheese or ricotta for a different but still tangy flavor profile. If olives aren't available, capers or sun-dried tomatoes can provide a comparable briny note. When slicing cucumbers, use a vegetable peeler to create thin ribbons if preferred, adding a touch of elegance to your sandwich.
Tips
Make sure to pat dry the spinach leaves thoroughly to prevent sogginess in your Mediterranean Veggie sandwich. When slicing tomatoes and cucumbers, use a sharp chef's knife for even, clean cuts that enhance both texture and appearance. Toasting the artisan bread until golden adds a crispy contrast that complements the creamy feta cheese. You should assemble the sandwich just before serving to maintain freshness and the vibrant flavors of each ingredient.
Nutritions
Your Mediterranean Veggie sandwich offers a nutrient-dense blend rich in vitamins and minerals. Fresh spinach provides a good source of vitamin K, vitamin A, and folate, while cucumbers and tomatoes add hydration and antioxidants like vitamin C and lycopene. The feta cheese supplies calcium and protein, supporting bone health and muscle function. Black olives contribute heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and polyphenols, enhancing the sandwich's overall nutritional profile.
Storage
Store your Mediterranean Veggie sandwich in an airtight container and refrigerate to keep the fresh spinach, cucumbers, and tomatoes crisp while preserving the feta cheese's tangy flavor. Avoid wrapping the sandwich directly in plastic wrap, as this can cause the bread to become soggy from moisture released by the vegetables. Consume within 24 hours for optimal taste and texture.
Variation or Alternatives
You can swap the artisan sandwich bun for a whole-grain pita or focaccia to add a different texture and enhance the nutritional profile of your sandwich. Substitute goat cheese or mozzarella for feta to create a creamier, milder flavor while still maintaining Mediterranean appeal. Roasting the tomatoes and olives briefly before assembling can deepen the flavors and add a warm element to your Mediterranean Veggie sandwich. Try adding a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a spread of hummus with a small spatula to introduce a tangy or savory twist that complements the fresh ingredients.
Allergies
The Mediterranean Veggie sandwich contains dairy from the feta cheese, which may trigger allergic reactions in individuals with lactose intolerance or a milk protein allergy. The artisan bun or ciabatta roll likely contains gluten, posing a risk for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity. If you have allergies to any of these ingredients, it is important to choose alternatives or consult with Schlotzsky's staff before ordering.
Why this recipe?
The Mediterranean Veggie menu from Schlotzsky's restaurant is popular for its fresh ingredients like cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese, combined with a unique blend of spices and creamy hummus. Its well-balanced flavor profile and healthy components appeal to those seeking nutritious yet satisfying meals. Trying your hand at a copycat recipe allows you to customize the sandwich to your taste preferences while recreating the delicious and wholesome experience at home. Making the Mediterranean Veggie sandwich yourself also offers the benefit of controlling ingredient quality and portion size to suit your dietary needs.