Sandwiches are the unsung heroes of every meal—quick, easy, and satisfying. But let’s be real, they can always be better.
Why settle for basic when you can elevate your sandwich with these 27 quick and easy toppings?
From creamy avocado to spicy mustard and crispy bacon, these toppings will upgrade your sandwich in no time. So grab your bread, get creative, and prepare for a flavor explosion that’ll make your lunch the highlight of your day.
1. Avocado Slices
Avocado slices bring a creamy richness to your sandwich, offering a healthy dose of good fats and vitamins. If you’re seeking a smooth texture with a slightly nutty flavor, this is your go-to topping. How about pairing it with some lemon juice and salt to enhance its natural taste?
Though simple, avocados can transform a sandwich into a gourmet meal. Where you place them in your sandwich can affect the flavor balance. However, I find layering them next to spicy ingredients like jalapeños works wonders.
You might prefer your avocado cold, chill it before slicing. Hence, it retains a firm texture, adding a delightful contrast to other softer toppings. The versatility of avocado ensures it pairs well with almost anything you choose to add.
2. Caramelized Onions
Caramelized onions add a sweet and savory depth to your sandwich, enhancing flavors with their natural sugars. Where you might expect harshness from raw onions, these deliver a mellow, rich taste.
If you’re looking to add a gourmet touch, consider simmering them slowly until golden brown. Though time-consuming, the result is a luscious, almost jam-like texture that melts into your other ingredients.
How they complement meats, cheeses, or even vegetarian sandwiches is remarkable. However, ensure they remain moist during cooking to avoid burning. A splash of balsamic vinegar can deepen their flavor, offering a slight tang.
3. Roasted Red Peppers
Let’s face it—your sandwich was doing just fine, but it was missing something. Enter roasted red peppers: the edible rockstars of the sandwich world. Sweet, smoky, and just a tad dramatic, these peppers swoop in like they own the place, turning your basic sandwich into a gourmet experience.
They’re like the little black dress of toppings—always in style and instantly making everything look way more sophisticated.
Add some roasted red peppers, and suddenly, your sandwich is the one everyone’s talking about—whether they admit it or not.
4. Pickled Jalapeños
Pickled jalapeños offer a spicy kick that elevates your sandwich to a new level. How they infuse heat and tanginess makes them a must-have for spice lovers.
If you’re craving a bit of excitement in each bite, these peppers will not disappoint. Though they pack a punch, their pickled nature balances with the crunch of fresh vegetables or the creaminess of cheese.
However, be mindful of the heat level to avoid overwhelming the other flavors. A suggestion would be to pair them with a cooling element like yogurt or avocado to mellow the spice.
5. Hummus
Hummus serves as a delightful spread, bringing a nutty, savory flavor to your sandwich. Where traditional condiments lack, hummus fills the gap with its creamy texture and protein-rich composition.
Inclined towards a plant-based diet, this chickpea spread is both satisfying and nutritious. However, its versatility allows it to complement a wide range of other toppings, from vegetables to meats.
Consider adding a touch of garlic or lemon for an extra zing. Each bite becomes an explosion of Mediterranean flavors, making your sandwich both delicious and wholesome.
6. Fresh Basil Leaves
Imagine a sandwich without basil. It’s fine, but it’s missing that je ne sais quoi—that herbaceous burst of flavor that takes your lunch to the next level.
Their vibrant green color and unique aroma enhance both visual and taste aspects, especially when paired with tomatoes and mozzarella. However, the key is to use them sparingly to avoid overpowering other flavors.
Though subtle, basil’s presence elevates the overall taste, creating a delightful harmony between all the ingredients. Where you place them can also influence the final taste, so experiment with different combinations.
7. Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Sun-dried tomatoes introduce a concentrated burst of flavor to your sandwich, offering a sweet and tangy profile. However, their chewy texture can add a delightful contrast to the softness of bread and other toppings.
Aiming to intensify the taste, these tomatoes are a fantastic choice. Their rich flavor pairs excellently with cheeses, particularly feta or goat cheese, providing a Mediterranean twist.
Consider rehydrating them in olive oil for added richness. They become even more succulent and ready to elevate any simple sandwich into something extraordinary.
8. Arugula
Transform your sandwich with its bold green flavor. If you’re searching for a way to add a fresh, slightly bitter element, arugula is your answer.
While lettuce is common, arugula provides a more distinctive taste, enhancing the overall eating experience. How it pairs with creamy or tangy ingredients like goat cheese or vinaigrette is truly delightful.
Though often used in salads, arugula’s versatility shines in sandwiches, providing a crisp texture. However, remember to wash it thoroughly to ensure the freshest taste possible.
9. Pesto
If your sandwich is a movie, pesto is the plot twist you never saw coming but totally needed. This vibrant, herb-packed sauce swoops in like a flavor superhero, turning a regular sandwich into something that’ll have your taste buds standing up and cheering.
It’s like a VIP pass to flavor town, and your bread is more than happy to get on board.
10. Coleslaw
Coleslaw adds a crisp, refreshing crunch to your sandwich, with its delightful mix of cabbage and carrots. If you’re looking to introduce a bit of zest, the tangy, creamy dressing does just that.
Though often a side dish, coleslaw works wonders as a topping, especially for barbecue or pulled meat sandwiches. How the contrast between the cool slaw and warm fillings creates a balanced, flavorful bite is quite enjoyable.
However, ensure the slaw is well-drained to prevent sogginess. That way your sandwich remains crisp and appetizing, ready to offer a satisfying crunch in every bite.
11. Crispy Bacon
This one brings a smoky, salty delight to any sandwich, adding a crunch that’s hard to resist. Bacon is the answer if you need a way to elevate your meal with indulgence.
Though it’s a classic, its presence never fails to enhance the taste, especially when paired with eggs, lettuce, or even sweet components like jam.
It’s like the mic drop of sandwich toppings—nothing beats that sizzle, that crunch, and that glorious bacon flavor. Trust me, your taste buds will be grateful for this.
12. Olive Tapenade
Olive tapenade offers a rich, briny flavor, providing a Mediterranean twist to your sandwich. If you have an affinity for olives, this spread combines black and green varieties with capers for a complex taste.
How it complements cheese and roasted vegetables is remarkable, often acting as the star ingredient. Though intense, its robust profile enriches every bite.
However, a thin layer suffices to prevent overpowering. Add it to an open-faced sandwich for a more gourmet presentation. The flavors shine do shine, making your meal both visually appealing and delicious.
13. Sliced Turkey
Sliced turkey introduces a lean protein option, perfect for a hearty sandwich. If you’re aiming for a light yet satisfying meal, turkey offers a mild flavor that pairs well with almost any topping.
Where turkey excels is in its versatility, allowing you to mix and match with bolder flavors like cranberry sauce or spicy mustard. However, opting for smoked varieties can add an extra layer of depth.
Though typically a post-holiday staple, turkey sandwiches are delightful year-round. Consider adding a slice of Swiss cheese for a classic combination that never disappoints.
14. Cucumber Slices
With their mild, slightly sweet flavor and satisfying snap, they add a refreshing balance to all the richer toppings. It’s like your sandwich just went from a casual lunch to a crisp, gourmet experience.
So, if you want to take your sandwich from good to next-level, don’t underestimate the power of a few perfect cucumber slices!
15. Grilled Eggplant
Grilled eggplant adds a smoky, tender element to your sandwich, with its unique flavor profile. Eggplant offers a satisfying, meat-like texture.
The grilling process enhances its natural sweetness is noteworthy, creating a delectable base for other toppings like feta cheese or pesto. Though it absorbs flavors well, pairing with strong ingredients elevates its taste.
But also, be cautious not to overcook, as it can become mushy. Consider marinating before grilling to infuse additional flavors. Deliciously grilled eggplant can transform any sandwich into a gourmet experience.
16. Brie Cheese
Brie is the badass of the cheese world—smooth, creamy, and effortlessly cool. It doesn’t need to yell for attention; it just is the attention.
Where brie truly shines is in its ability to pair with both sweet and savory ingredients. Try to combine it with fruit preserves or caramelized onions for a sophisticated taste.
However, to prevent overpowering, use thin slices. How brie elevates simple ingredients into gourmet treats is remarkable, ensuring every bite is a rich, velvety experience.
17. Sliced Apples
Bring a crisp, sweet element to your sandwich, offering a refreshing contrast. apples are a delightful choice that add a hint of natural sweetness.
Though commonly seen in salads, apples in sandwiches provide a unique texture that complements savory ingredients. Consider pairing with cheddar cheese for a classic sweet-savory combination.
However, to maintain freshness, slice apples just before serving. Where their juicy crunch refreshes the palate, they add an unexpected twist to traditional flavors. Apples can make your meal both exciting and wholesome.
18. Smoked Salmon
Irresistible charmer that slides into your sandwich and instantly turns it into something seriously sexy? Yes, SS is here to steal all the attention.
How it complements cream cheese, capers, and red onions is classic, creating a balanced, flavorful experience. Though it can stand alone, pairing with fresh herbs like dill enhances its natural flavors.
For maximum freshness, splurge on high-quality salmon—it’s worth every bite. You’ll taste the difference. Serve on toasted bagels or rye bread for a traditional twist. Where its rich taste satisfies the senses, it transforms any sandwich into a luxurious delight.
19. Balsamic Glaze
The luxurious secret your sandwich didn’t know it needed is this ingredient. This glossy, sweet-and-tangy drizzle transforms your humble creation into a culinary masterpiece. Just a few drops, and your sandwich is no longer just lunch, it’s an experience.
The deep, caramelized flavor cuts through the richness of other toppings, giving your bite that perfect balance of bold, savory, and sweet. It’s the finishing touch that takes your sandwich from simple to sublime.
20. Sriracha Sauce
Sriracha sauce brings a fiery kick to your sandwich, perfect for those who love spice. Add heat, sriracha is your ally for lifetimes.
Though known for its punch, it also offers a subtle sweetness that enhances savory flavors. How it pairs with mayonnaise for a spicy aioli is particularly delightful.
However, moderation is key to avoid overwhelming the palate. Experiment with different amounts to find your perfect level of spice. Where sriracha heats up your meal, it ensures every bite is excitingly flavorful.
21. Spinach Leaves
Spinach leaves offer a mild, nutritious addition to your sandwich, bringing a fresh, green flavor.
Though often relegated to salads, its subtle taste allows other flavors to shine, making it an excellent base. How it pairs with creamy or sharp ingredients is particularly pleasing.
Try to use baby spinach for a tender texture. Wash it thoroughly to retain freshness. What is good about spinach is that not only it boosts nutritional value but also adds a refreshing element to your meal.
22. Roasted Garlic
Picture a sandwich without roasted garlic—bland, right? That’s because this sweet, mellow, and smoky topping is the game-changer your meal has been begging for.
It brings a rich depth of flavor that takes your sandwich from “meh” to mouthwatering in seconds. A little roasted garlic is all it takes to add warmth and complexity, turning an ordinary bite into something extraordinary.
Trust me, your taste buds will never forget the magic of this golden, aromatic addition.
23. Fried Egg
There’s something magical about a perfectly fried egg on a sandwich—crispy edges, a runny yolk just waiting to spill, and a creamy richness that makes every bite irresistible.
Where it truly excels is in its versatility, pairing well with bacon, cheese, or avocado. How the yolk oozes into other ingredients creates a luxurious, binding texture.
However, to achieve the perfect runny yolk, cook on a low flame. Maybe endeavor to add a pinch of pepper for added zest. Hence, a fried egg can transform a simple sandwich into a hearty, satisfying meal.
24. Goat Cheese
Goat cheese offers a tangy, creamy addition to your sandwich, perfect for a gourmet touch. If you’re looking for bold flavors, goat cheese delivers an earthy, rich taste.
Whether it’s spread generously or crumbled delicately, goat cheese takes your sandwich from good to gourmet in seconds.
It’s the kind of ingredient that turns an everyday meal into something you’d find at a chic café, and trust me, your taste buds will be all for it.
25. Prosciutto
Prosciutto introduces a salty, savory element to your sandwich, offering an Italian flair. This delicate, melt-in-your-mouth meat brings a depth of flavor with just the right amount of savory goodness, making your taste buds swoon.
How it complements mozzarella, arugula, or melon is classic, creating a harmonious blend. Though it stands out, prosciutto’s subtlety enhances rather than dominates the palate.
However, for an authentic experience, source high-quality prosciutto. It’s the kind of topping that whispers “fancy,” but doesn’t need to shout about it.
26. Watercress
Watercress adds a peppery, fresh bite to your sandwich, similar to arugula but with a distinct flavor. If you’re looking for a nutrient-rich topping, watercress is packed with vitamins.
How it enhances the overall palate with its crisp, slightly bitter notes is delightful, especially when paired with creamy or fatty components.
Though delicate, it maintains a firm texture, ensuring a satisfying crunch. However, wash thoroughly to avoid grit. Hence, watercress not only adds flavor but also boosts the nutritional value of your meal.
27. Kimchi
A little bit spicy, a little bit sour, and all kinds of awesome, kimchi is the bold, flavorful kick your sandwich didn’t know it needed.
This fermented delight brings an addictive crunch, tang, and heat that instantly elevates any meal. With its unique combination of flavors, it turns an ordinary sandwich into a flavor-packed adventure, leaving your taste buds dancing.
Add kimchi, and your sandwich instantly transforms into something exciting—no passport required.