Grain Foods Foundation

Science-Based Nutrition for Grains

Refreshing Summertime Sandwich Recipes

Looking for easy summer sandwich recipes? Try fresh, seasonal ideas with chicken, veggies, cheese and more — perfect for picnics, lunches and quick meals.

When the weather heats up, meals should feel simple, fresh and satisfying.

That’s where sandwiches shine. They’re quick to make, easy to customize and perfect for everything from pool days to packed lunches. Whether you’re craving something light and refreshing or hearty and shareable, summer sandwiches make it easy to build a balanced meal with minimal effort.

Here are a few fresh ideas to inspire your next summer bite.

Why Sandwiches Work for Summer Meals

Sandwiches are more than just convenient. They help bring together a variety of foods in one place. Using bread or grain-based options as a base makes it easy to pair:

  • Lean proteins like chicken, turkey or beans
  • Fresh vegetables and fruits
  • Dairy foods like cheese or yogurt-based spreads

This balance helps create meals that are satisfying, nutrient-dense and easy to enjoy on the go.

15 Summer Sandwich Recipes to Add to Your Rotation

Fresh Basil, Blackberry, and Grilled Chicken Sandwich

Love grilled chicken on a fresh salad? You’ll love this basil and blackberry variation that is eye-catching and delicious, between two slices of Martin’s Old-Fashioned Real Butter Bread.
Check out this recipe

Best of Summer Avocado Veggie Sandwich

The ideal sandwich for a summer picnic or your everyday brown bag lunch. This instant favorite brightens seasonal vegetables with a kick of Italian dressing.
Check out this recipe
Best of Summer Avocado Veggie Sandwich, with cucumber, tomato and yellow pepper

Chicken Avocado Grilled Cheese

Step up your grilled cheese game but adding creamy avocado, roasted red peppers and deli-sliced chicken.
Check out this recipe
Chicken Avocado Grilled Cheese

Salmon Caesar Salad Sandwiches

Flaky salmon meets crisp romaine and creamy Caesar dressing in this easy sandwich that's fresh, protein-packed and perfect for a quick lunch.
Check out this recipe
Salmon Caesar Salad Sandwiches

Chipotle-Citrus Club Sandwich

Get adventurous with your club sandwich to boost your energy at lunchtime. Try experimenting with citrus, spice and interesting combinations like this one for something new.
Check out this recipe
Chipotle-Citrus Club Sandwich

Spicy BLT Sandwich with Avocado

When an ordinary BLT simply will not do, up the ante with creamy avocado and a kick of spicy chipotle mayonnaise.
Check out this recipe
Spicy BLT Sandwich with Avocado

Miami Chicken Salad Sandwich

Here’s a chicken salad that doesn’t play by the rules. And with its crunchy almonds, jicama, earthy tarragon and sliced mango, you’ll be glad it doesn’t!
Check out this recipe
Miami Chicken Salad Sandwich

Veggie Sandwich

Skip meat without skipping out on flavor. Try a veggie sandwich that’s just as satisfying thanks to hummus, pesto and plenty of veggies on a hearty whole wheat bread
Check out this recipe
Veggie Sandwich

Cobb Salad Sandwich

First created in California, Cobb salad traditionally includes an array of tasty ingredients, like avocado, egg, chicken, tomato, and bacon. In our version, all these toppings are found in between Martin’s Old-Fashioned Real Butter Bread.
Check out this recipe
Cobb Salad Sandwich

Zesty Turkey Party Sliders

These turkey sliders are topped with melty cheese, roasted red peppers, pesto and a zesty Italian dressing. They're warm, cheesy, and perfect for parties, game day, or feeding a crowd.
Check out this recipe
Zesty Turkey Party Sliders

Citrus Tuna Melt Sandwich

This warm toasted open-faced tuna melt sandwich is easy to make and even better to eat.
Check out this recipe
Citrus Tuna Melt Sandwich

Caprese Salad-Style Sandwiches

Get the fresh flavors of a caprese salad in a sandwich by pairing mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, aromatic basil and a touch of balsamic vinaigrette on whole wheat deli roll.
Check out this recipe
Caprese Salad-Style Sandwiches

Apple & Turkey Grilled Cheese

Forget everything you know about grilled cheese. We layer brie, granny smith apples and roasted turkey in this version that’s a bright twist on the classic.
Check out this recipe
Apple & Turkey Grilled Cheese

Roast Beef and Arugula Sandwich

This easy roast beef and arugula sandwich with horseradish mayo, tomato and whole grain bread is ready in minutes for a healthy, protein-packed lunch.
Check out this recipe
Roast Beef and Arugula Sandwich

Whole Grain Chickpea Salad Sandwich

This satisfying, flavorful sandwich features fiber-packed chickpeas, veggies, tangy mayo and a hint of curry. One serving has 28% of the daily recommended value of fiber!
Check out this recipe
Whole Grain Chickpea Salad Sandwhich

Summer meals do not need to be complicated. With fresh ingredients and simple combinations, sandwiches offer an easy way to create meals that are flavorful, balanced and ready in minutes. Whether you are feeding a crowd or just need a quick lunch, there is a summer sandwich for every occasion.

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