Vegetarian BLT Sandwich Recipe

Taking a spin on the classic BLT, this vegetarian BLT uses halloumi cheese for the bacon element. It's a wonderful combination of salty, crispy halloumi with juicy tomatoes and fresh lettuce, all brought together with creamy mayonnaise and sandwiched between slices of crusty sourdough bread. This is an easy and satisfying option for any vegetarian or anyone who wants to try something a little different.

Photos of Vegetarian “BLT” Sandwich Recipe

Halloumi cheese may not be a regular staple in everyone's fridge, but it's a fantastic option for vegetarians as it holds its shape when cooked and has a unique, salty flavor. It can be found in most supermarkets or specialty food stores in the cheese section. Additionally, sourdough bread is recommended for its crusty texture and slightly tart flavor, but any large bread slices would work as well.

Ingredients for Vegetarian BLT Sandwich

Sourdough bread: A type of bread made through fermentation of dough using naturally occurring lactobacilli and yeast. It has a mildly sour taste and chewy texture.

Red tomatoes: Fresh, ripe tomatoes that give a sweet and slightly tangy flavor.

Flaky sea salt: A type of sea salt that has a crisp texture and clean, briny flavor.

Halloumi cheese: A semi-hard, unripened, brined cheese from Cyprus that has a high melting point and can easily be fried or grilled.

Extra-virgin olive oil: Cold-pressed from olives; it adds a fruity note to the dish.

Black pepper: A spice that adds a mild heat and flavor to the dish.

Mayonnaise: A thick, creamy sauce made of oil, egg yolk, and either vinegar or lemon juice.

Green lettuce leaves: Crispy, fresh, and slightly bitter lettuce leaves that add a crunch to the sandwich.

One reader, Evita Garza says:

This vegetarian BLT sandwich recipe is a game-changer! The halloumi cheese adds a delightful twist to the classic BLT, and the combination of flavors is simply divine. The crispy, golden halloumi paired with fresh tomatoes and lettuce is a match made in sandwich heaven. I highly recommend trying this recipe!

Evita Garza

Key Techniques for Crafting the Perfect Vegetarian BLT Sandwich

How to toast the bread: Lightly toast each slice of bread and set it aside.

How to prepare the tomatoes: Slice the tomatoes into thick rounds (a little over ¼-inch thick) and sprinkle them lightly with flaky salt or kosher salt. Set aside.

How to cook the halloumi: Slice the halloumi into ¼ inch wide strips no longer than the bread. Pat dry any pools of moisture on the cheese. In a medium skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil. Cook the cheese for about 2 to 4 minutes on each side until deeply golden.

How to assemble the sandwich: Spread mayonnaise generously over the slices of bread. Top with lettuce, tomato slices, and cooked halloumi. Top with the remaining slices of bread, mayo side down. Enjoy the sandwich whole, or use a sharp chef's knife to slice them in half.

How To Make Vegetarian “BLT” Sandwich

Have a delicious bite of this vegetarian BLT sandwich that trades bacon for halloumi cheese slices. It comes with toasted sour bread slathered with mayo.

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

4sliceslarge sourdough bread,(or 6 medium slices)
2ripe red tomatoes,medium-to-large
flaky sea salt,or kosher salt
6ozhalloumi cheese
¼cupextra-virgin olive oil,for frying
freshly ground black pepper
6tbspmayonnaise,or as needed
6tender green lettuce leaves

Instructions

Lightly toast each slice of bread, and set it aside.
Slice the tomatoes into thick rounds (a little over ¼-inch thick) and sprinkle them lightly with flaky salt or kosher salt. Set aside.
Slice the halloumi into ¼ inch wide strips no longer than the bread. Using a clean tea towel or paper towel, gently pat dry any pools of moisture on the cheese (less water means less splattering). Place the cheese near the stove.
In a medium skillet over medium heat, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Warm the oil enough so that a slice of cheese, once added, quickly starts bubbling around the edges.
Using kitchen tongs, carefully place slices of halloumi into the hot oil. Leave a little room around each piece of cheese so they don’t stick together. Cover the skillet to contain any splatters.
Cook the cheese for about 2 to 4 minutes until the undersides are deeply golden. Adjust the heat as needed.
Carefully flip each piece of cheese with the tongs, recover the skillet, and cook for about 2 to 4 minutes until the other side is deeply golden.
In the meantime, place a few paper towels on an empty plate or cutting board to absorb excess oil. Place each piece of cooked cheese onto the plate, sprinkle heavily with freshly ground black pepper, and let the cheese cool down a bit before handling.
To assemble the sandwiches, first spread mayonnaise generously over 2 slices of bread (if making two sandwiches) or 3 (if making three sandwiches).
Top each of the remaining plain slices of toast with 2 to 3 lettuce leaves. Top the lettuce with tomato slices, lightly overlapping them for full coverage.
Top the tomatoes with slices of cheese, again overlapping them for full coverage. Top with the remaining slices of bread, mayo side down.
Enjoy the sandwich whole, or use a sharp chef’s knife to slice them in half. These sandwiches are best served fresh but will keep for about 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Nutrition

Calories: 872.99kcal
Fat: 55.65g
Saturated Fat: 15.00g
Trans Fat: 0.01g
Monounsaturated Fat: 21.83g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 16.76g
Carbohydrates: 72.27g
Fiber: 4.65g
Sugar: 10.32g
Protein: 22.67g
Cholesterol: 61.72mg
Sodium: 1547.99mg
Calcium: 379.79mg
Potassium: 370.85mg
Iron: 6.14mg
Vitamin A: 103.36µg
Vitamin C: 10.21mg

Expert Tip for Elevating Your Vegetarian BLT Sandwich

When frying the halloumi cheese, it's important to pat it dry before placing it in the hot oil. This not only prevents oil splatters but also helps the cheese to achieve a crispy, golden exterior. Additionally, be sure to give each piece of cheese enough space in the pan to ensure even cooking. Overcrowding the pan can lead to uneven browning and a less desirable texture. Lastly, don't forget to adjust the heat as needed. If the cheese is browning too quickly, reduce the heat to prevent it from burning.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing a Vegetarian BLT Sandwich

Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and prepare the halloumi in advance to streamline the sandwich assembly process.

Multi-task: While the halloumi is cooking, you can simultaneously toast the bread and prepare the other ingredients to save time.

Quality ingredients: Use high-quality, flavorful tomatoes and fresh lettuce to enhance the overall taste of the sandwich.

Efficient assembly: Assemble all the ingredients in an organized manner to make the sandwich preparation quick and efficient.

Proper storage: If making the sandwiches in advance, store the components separately to maintain their freshness and texture until ready to assemble and serve.

Substitute Ingredients For Vegetarian “BLT” Sandwich Recipe

sourdough bread - Substitute with whole grain bread: Whole grain bread offers a healthier alternative with added fiber and nutrients.
halloumi cheese - Substitute with smoked tofu: Smoked tofu provides a similar texture and smoky flavor, making it a great vegetarian alternative.
mayonnaise - Substitute with vegan mayonnaise: Vegan mayonnaise is a plant-based alternative that provides a creamy texture and similar flavor without using eggs.
lettuce - Substitute with baby spinach: Baby spinach offers a nutrient-rich alternative with a mild, slightly sweet flavor that complements the sandwich well.

How to Beautifully Present a Vegetarian BLT Sandwich

Elevate the sandwich with a gourmet touch: Present the vegetarian BLT sandwich on a sleek, rectangular plate to give it a modern and sophisticated look.
Incorporate vibrant colors: Arrange the sandwiches on the plate with a pop of color by adding a small side salad of mixed greens and cherry tomatoes, drizzled with a balsamic reduction, to complement the flavors and add visual appeal.
Focus on precision: Carefully cut the sandwiches diagonally and arrange them in a precise and visually appealing manner on the plate, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed for a balanced presentation.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Add a touch of freshness and elegance by garnishing the plate with a few sprigs of fresh basil or microgreens to enhance the overall presentation and provide a hint of additional flavor.
Consider the plate as a canvas: Use the negative space on the plate to your advantage, ensuring that the presentation is not overcrowded and allowing the sandwich to be the focal point while still incorporating complementary elements.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making a Delicious Vegetarian BLT

Toaster: A kitchen appliance used to toast bread and other food items.
Knife: A sharp-edged utensil used for cutting and slicing ingredients.
Skillet: A frying pan with a flat bottom and low sides, used for frying, searing, and browning food.
Tongs: A tool with two arms and a pivot, used for gripping and lifting objects.
Paper towels: Absorbent paper used for cleaning and drying food items.
Cutting board: A durable board used to protect surfaces when cutting or chopping ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for various kitchen tasks such as chopping, slicing, and dicing.
Tea towel: A cloth used for drying dishes and hands in the kitchen.
Food processor: A kitchen appliance used for chopping, blending, and pureeing ingredients.

Storing and Freezing Your Vegetarian BLT Sandwich for Later

These vegetarian BLT sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent the bread from drying out and the ingredients from getting soggy.
If you want to prepare the components ahead of time, you can cook the halloumi cheese and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the cheese in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through before assembling the sandwiches.
For the best texture and flavor, it's not recommended to freeze these sandwiches as the bread, tomatoes, and lettuce will not hold up well in the freezer. The halloumi cheese can become crumbly and lose its texture after being frozen and thawed.
If you need to prepare the sandwiches a few hours in advance, you can assemble them without the mayonnaise and store them in the refrigerator. Add the mayonnaise just before serving to prevent the bread from getting soggy.
To keep the lettuce crisp, store it separately in a plastic bag or airtight container lined with a slightly damp paper towel. Add the lettuce to the sandwiches just before serving.

The Best Way to Reheat a Vegetarian BLT Sandwich

To reheat a leftover vegetarian blt sandwich, start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This will ensure that the sandwich is heated evenly throughout.
Wrap the sandwich in aluminum foil to prevent it from drying out or getting too crispy. The foil will help to retain the moisture and keep the bread soft and fluffy.
Place the wrapped sandwich on a baking sheet and put it in the preheated oven for about 10-15 minutes, or until it is heated through. The exact time will depend on the size and thickness of your sandwich.
If you prefer a crispier texture, you can unwrap the sandwich for the last 2-3 minutes of reheating. This will allow the bread to toast slightly and give it a nice crunch.
Alternatively, you can reheat the sandwich in a panini press or on a griddle. Simply brush the outside of the sandwich with a little olive oil or butter and press it for 2-3 minutes on each side until it is heated through and slightly crispy.
For a quick and easy option, you can also reheat the sandwich in the microwave. Place the sandwich on a microwave-safe plate and heat it on high for 30-60 seconds, or until it is heated through. Be careful not to overheat it, as this can make the bread tough and rubbery.
Regardless of the method you choose, be sure to let the sandwich cool for a minute or two before biting into it, as the cheese and other fillings may be very hot.
If you find that the sandwich is a bit dry after reheating, you can try adding a little extra mayonnaise or olive oil to help moisten it up. A slice of tomato or a piece of lettuce can also help to add some freshness and crunch.

Interesting Trivia About the Vegetarian BLT Sandwich

The BLT sandwich is a classic American dish that traditionally includes bacon, lettuce, and tomato. However, this vegetarian version substitutes halloumi cheese for the bacon, providing a delicious and savory alternative. Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese with a high melting point, making it perfect for grilling or frying. It adds a rich, salty flavor and a satisfying texture to the sandwich. This vegetarian BLT sandwich is a great option for those looking to enjoy a meatless meal without sacrificing taste and satisfaction.

Is Making a Vegetarian BLT Sandwich at Home Cost-Effective?

This vegetarian BLT sandwich recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The main ingredient, halloumi cheese, is reasonably priced and provides a substantial protein source. The use of tomatoes and lettuce adds freshness and nutrition without breaking the bank. With a simple list of ingredients, this recipe offers a satisfying and flavorful meal at an approximate cost of $15 for a household of 4. Overall, I would rate this recipe an 8 for its affordability, taste, and nutritional value.

Is a Vegetarian BLT Sandwich Healthy?

The vegetarian BLT sandwich recipe, while tasty, has some aspects that could be improved from a health perspective. The use of sourdough bread is a positive choice, as it contains beneficial probiotics and may be easier to digest than regular bread. However, the recipe also includes a significant amount of high-fat ingredients, such as halloumi cheese, olive oil, and mayonnaise, which can contribute to a higher calorie and saturated fat content.

On the other hand, the inclusion of fresh tomatoes and lettuce provides some essential vitamins, minerals, and fiber. These vegetables add a layer of nutrition to the sandwich, making it a more well-rounded meal.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Opt for a whole-grain sourdough bread to increase the fiber content and provide additional nutrients
Reduce the amount of halloumi cheese used, or replace it with a lower-fat alternative like grilled tofu or tempeh
Use a light or reduced-fat mayonnaise, or replace it with a healthier spread like mashed avocado or hummus
Add more vegetable toppings, such as sliced cucumbers, roasted red peppers, or sprouts, to increase the nutrient density of the sandwich
Experiment with different types of leafy greens, like spinach or arugula, to vary the flavor and nutritional profile
Use a smaller amount of olive oil when cooking the halloumi, or opt for a cooking spray to reduce the overall fat content

Our Editor's Opinion on the Vegetarian BLT Sandwich Recipe

The vegetarian BLT sandwich recipe is a delightful twist on the classic BLT. The use of halloumi cheese as a substitute for bacon adds a unique and savory flavor, while the combination of ripe tomatoes, fresh lettuce, and creamy mayonnaise creates a harmonious balance of textures and tastes. The recipe's clear instructions and attention to detail ensure a successful outcome. Overall, this vegetarian BLT sandwich is a delicious and satisfying option for those seeking a meatless alternative with a gourmet touch.

Enhance Your Vegetarian “BLT” Sandwich Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection and topped with a savory garlic parmesan crust.

Grilled Peach and Arugula Salad: Juicy grilled peaches paired with peppery arugula, drizzled with a tangy balsamic vinaigrette.

Mango Avocado Salsa: A refreshing and colorful salsa made with ripe mango, creamy avocado, and a hint of spicy jalapeno.

Delicious Alternatives to the Classic Vegetarian BLT Sandwich

Roasted Vegetable Quinoa Salad: This hearty salad is packed with roasted vegetables and protein-rich quinoa, making it a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Add a tropical twist to your chicken dinner with this flavorful mango salsa, perfect for a summer barbecue or weeknight meal.

Creamy Butternut Squash Soup: Warm up with a bowl of creamy butternut squash soup, seasoned with aromatic spices and finished with a drizzle of cream for a comforting and delicious dish.

Appetizers and Desserts That Complement a Vegetarian BLT Sandwich

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory and indulgent stuffed mushrooms. They are the perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: These colorful and refreshing caprese skewers are a delightful way to start any gathering. The combination of fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and fragrant basil will leave your guests wanting more.

Desserts:

Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and velvety chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will leave your taste buds craving for more.

Berry Parfait: Layered with creamy yogurt, fresh berries, and crunchy granola, this berry parfait is a delightful combination of sweet and tangy flavors. Each spoonful offers a satisfying crunch and a burst of fruity goodness.

Why trust this Vegetarian “BLT” Sandwich Recipe:

This vegetarian BLT sandwich recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic BLT, replacing bacon with savory halloumi cheese. The recipe provides detailed instructions for perfectly cooking the halloumi, ensuring a crispy and golden exterior. The use of ripe tomatoes and tender lettuce guarantees freshness and vibrant flavors. With the addition of flaky sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, each ingredient is highlighted. The recipe's clear and concise steps, along with the thoughtful assembly instructions, demonstrate a trustworthy and reliable approach to creating a delicious vegetarian sandwich.

Want to discuss this tasty vegetarian "BLT" sandwich recipe further? Head over to the Recipe Sharing section of our forum and let us know your thoughts!

FAQ:

Can I use a different type of bread for this sandwich?

Yes, you can definitely use a different type of bread if you prefer. Whole wheat, multigrain, or even a classic white bread would work well with this sandwich.

Can I substitute the halloumi cheese with another type of cheese?

Absolutely! If you're not a fan of halloumi, you can use other cheeses like sliced mozzarella, provolone, or even a vegan cheese alternative for a delicious twist.

How long can I store the assembled sandwiches?

The assembled sandwiches are best enjoyed fresh, but if you have leftovers, you can store them in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just make sure to wrap them tightly in plastic wrap or store them in an airtight container to maintain their freshness.

Can I add other vegetables to the sandwich?

Of course! Feel free to customize your sandwich with additional vegetables like avocado slices, roasted red peppers, or thinly sliced cucumbers for extra flavor and texture.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Absolutely! You can easily make this recipe vegan by using a plant-based mayonnaise and opting for a vegan cheese alternative. Just make sure to check the labels to ensure the ingredients align with your dietary preferences.