There are several choices to consider customizing this very satisfying sandwich. Make sure to
slice everything ultra thin, except the bread.
Bread
I like to use whole grain, but any larger sliced substantial thick cut bread will do it. You will need 3 slices per sandwich, toasted.
Bacon
I use reduced sodium bacon. Use nice meaty looking slices with less fatty striping. My Mom used to use Irish bacon and when I can find it , I do too. But usually, I just make it with a good brand of bacon. You will need 4- 6 slices of drained bacon cooked c
Tomatoes
Tomatoes should be ripe, but very firm. Do not refrigerate them as they will lose flavor. You will need about 6-8 thin slices per sandwich.
Mayo
Homemade , if possible or a good brand name . I use Hellman's or Kraft Black Pepper Mayo.
1-3 tablespoons per sandwich
Veggie Mix
Per sandwich : 1 stalk of celery, very thinly sliced
2-3 radishes, shredded and drained
1/2 carrot, shredded and drained
1 tablespoon of horseradish .If you don't like
horseradish, you may sub jalapeno or honey mustard.
A few dashes of celery seeds
4-6 pitted black olives, sliced thinly
Lettuce
You may choose whatever you like. Many prefer iceberg for this sandwich.
There are much better choices that are nutritionally superior. We like Arugula
or Spinach , or a combo of these 2 choices.
Red Onion and Bell Pepper
A few very thin slices per layer separated into rings.
Assembly
First prepare the veggies so they have time to drain. Wash and dry your greens unless you purchase ready to eat. Slice the tomatoes and onion. Cook the bacon until crispy and drain on a paper towel.
Mix the shredded radish, celery, carrot, and black olives into the horseradish or mustard. Add celery seed and mayo . Blend well. Toast 3 slices of bread per sandwich. Place 1 slice of toast on a plate or
cutting board. Spread the bread with 1/2 the veggie mayo mix. Add the lettuce, followed by 1/2 the bacon and then 1/2 the tomato and green pepper slices. Add a grind of black pepper. Top with another slice of toast. Spread with remaining veggie mayo mix. Add lettuce and bacon., finish with onion slices and tomato. Add a coarse grind of black pepper . Finish with the bread. Slice the sandwich into 4 wedges and secure with an extra tall toothpick or short skewer to secure the filling.
We serve this with a sliced orange and strawberry salad, no dressing needed. If this is served for dinner, we usually start with a bowl of lighter soup. If you require additional protein , just top your fruit with some lowfat yogurt.
