Making these open sandwiches is an easy lunch recipe that works especially well when the filling, sauce, and topping are in balance. Aim for something creamy, something fresh, and enough bite.
You can usually prepare the recipe in advance, but it’s best to assemble the dish just before eating. That way, the bread, wrap, or topping stays at its best.
Why open sandwiches deserve a place on your lunch menu
In Northern Europe, lunch is all about balance: nourishing, simple, made with ease, and above all: beautifully presented. Open sandwiches combine crusty bread, flavorful spreads, fresh toppings, and distinctive flavor enhancers. The secret? Choose quality ingredients and mix flavors and textures like a true food stylist.
What do you need for open sandwiches?
- Sturdy sourdough bread or rye bread
- Crème fraîche or cream cheese
- Smoked salmon, roast beef, or vegetarian toppings such as grilled vegetables
- Fresh herbs (dill, chives, parsley)
- Unique flavor enhancers from Nicolas Vahé (think jam, aioli, or pesto)
- Extras to taste: pickled onion, radish, avocado
How to make open sandwiches like a pro
- Choose your base: Slice fresh bread. Serve it on a sturdy cutting board for extra atmosphere.
- Create a creamy layer: Spread the bread with crème fraîche, cream cheese, or a special spread from Nicolas Vahé.
- Pile it on: Stack on your favorite toppings, such as thin slices of smoked salmon, roast beef with crispy onion, or grilled vegetables.
- Finish it off: Add unique flavor enhancers, such as this onion and balsamic jam from our shop. Finally, sprinkle fresh herbs over your creation.
3 topping ideas
- Luxury salmon & dill: Cream cheese, slices of smoked salmon, dill, lemon zest, and capers.
- Veggie with avocado & radish: Hummus, slices of avocado, radish, sprouts, and a pinch of sea salt.
- Roast beef & balsamic onion: Crème fraîche, thin slices of roast beef, onion-balsamic jam, and crispy fried onions.
Styling tips for a lunch à la ELLE x Delicious.
- Go for a casually chic look: serve your sandwiches on different wooden cutting boards.
- Vary the colors (think: beet hummus, pink radish, salmon pink, or green avocado).
- Sprinkle generously with fresh herbs and edible flowers for the finishing touch.
Which flavor enhancers work well here?
When you’re going for culinary simplicity without compromising on flavor, the products from Nicolas Vahé are essential. Their dips, sauces, and jams add extra character to any lunch. And the beautiful jars – minimalist in style – look gorgeous on the table.
Ready to taste?
With these tips and inspiration, you can serve a warm, stylish lunch in no time that everyone will love. Smørrebrød is surprisingly easy, yet always special. Feeling inspired to get started right away? Discover all the essentials and culinary products in our Nicolas Vahé collection.
Frequently asked questions about open sandwiches
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How long can these open sandwiches be stored?
They’re best fresh, but when stored airtight in the fridge, they’ll stay tasty for up to 1 day. Keep toppings like fish or meat for as short a time as possible. -
Can I prepare this recipe for a brunch?
You can prepare the basic elements (bread, spreads, sliced toppings) ahead of time. Assemble the sandwiches just before serving for the best flavor and texture. -
Which Nicolas Vahé products are suitable for open sandwiches?
Think of jams, aioli, pesto, confit, and special spice blends from our Nicolas Vahé collection.
Read also: Want to read more about this topic? Then also check out our article on brunch inspiration.
