Pin Recipe This vibrant sandwich swaps bread for crisp bell pepper halves, making each bite refreshing and colorful. Layers of deli turkey, Swiss cheese, juicy tomatoes, and crunchy lettuce are finished with savory hummus or mayo, a hint of Dijon, and red onion. Generously seasoned and easily customizable, this is a wholesome, gluten-free option you can pack for work or enjoy at home. For added taste, try flavored hummus, or swap proteins for variety. Ready in minutes—it's a delicious way to add veggies to your day!
This bell pepper sandwich is my go-to recipe when I want something fresh, satisfying, and low-carb for lunch. Swapping out traditional bread for crisp sweet bell peppers not only ups the crunch factor but also packs in more nutrients and color. It is the perfect way to enjoy a handheld sandwich that feels light yet totally filling.
The first time I made this sandwich, I was blown away by how much everyone loved it even the kids. It has become our sunny day picnic staple and a reliable lunch on busy work-from-home days.
Ingredients
- Bell peppers: provide crunch and act as your bread look for firm glossy peppers with bright color and no soft spots
- Lettuce leaves: bring fresh crunch and brighten up the sandwich choose crisp butter or romaine for best texture
- Tomato slices: give juiciness and color ripe tomatoes will add the most flavor
- Red onion: sharpens the taste and adds a beautiful purple pop slice as thin as possible for just the right bite
- Deli turkey: supplies lean protein go for fresh sliced turkey from the deli for juiciness
- Swiss cheese: adds creaminess and savory depth choose a sliceable block for better melt and flavor
- Hummus or mayonnaise: creates a creamy layer for moisture and flavor use a quality brand or homemade if you like
- Dijon mustard: brings a tangy kick opt for grainy or smooth Dijon based on your preference
- Salt and pepper: tie everything together fresh cracked pepper really elevates the taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Bell Peppers:
- Remove the stems then slice both bell peppers in half lengthwise through the stalk. Use a spoon or your fingers to scoop out seeds and white membranes. Pat dry with a paper towel to help the fillings stick and prevent sogginess.
- Spread the Condiments:
- Using a butter knife or small spoon spread your hummus or mayonnaise in an even layer on the inside of each bell pepper half. Add a thin layer of Dijon mustard on top of the base.
- Layer the Fillings:
- Lay down the lettuce leaves first to create a moisture buffer. Fold and layer the turkey slices followed by the Swiss cheese. Next add slices of tomato and thin red onion to build up flavor and visual appeal.
- Season the Sandwich:
- Sprinkle salt and freshly ground black pepper over the assembled layers to heighten all the flavors.
- Close the Sandwich:
- Place the second bell pepper half on top pressing gently to hold everything together. You can secure each sandwich with toothpicks if you want an extra sturdy hold.
- Serve or Pack:
- Serve immediately for maximum crunch or tightly wrap each sandwich in parchment paper for a quick lunch on the go. If packing to go keep cool and eat within a few hours.
Pin Recipe My favorite part is the moment you take that first bite and hear the snap of the pepper with all the juicy fillings. Last summer my family brought a cooler full of these sandwiches to the lake and they disappeared before we ever unpacked the rest of the picnic.
Easy Storage Tips
Keep assembled sandwiches in an airtight container lined with paper towels to absorb moisture store in the fridge for up to one day for best crunch and freshness. If prepping ahead wrap all fillings separately and stuff peppers just before eating. Peppers will start to soften after sitting overnight with fillings.
Tasty Ingredient Swaps
If you are vegetarian use grilled tofu or hummus as your main filling. Any deli sliced cheese works well and roast beef or chicken makes a heartier meal. Roasted red pepper hummus or spicy mustard adds zing while a sprinkle of smoked paprika can deepen the flavor.
How to Serve
Serve alone for a light lunch or with a handful of baked veggie chips for extra crunch. These sandwiches pair beautifully with sparkling water or a light white wine for a breezy picnic vibe. For a more substantial meal add a side of fruit salad or a tangy slaw.
Pin Recipe Nothing beats the joy of seeing a platter piled with these rainbow sandwiches at a party. They always steal the show with minimal fuss.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make this with different proteins?
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Absolutely! Substitute turkey with chicken, ham, or grilled tofu for a vegetarian version.
- → Are there dairy-free options?
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Yes, omit the cheese or use your favorite dairy-free cheese substitute.
- → How do I keep the sandwich together?
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Use toothpicks to help hold the sandwich halves together, especially for portable meals.
- → What vegetables work well in this sandwich?
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Tomatoes, lettuce, red onion, avocado, or cucumber add crispness, flavor, and nutrition.
- → Can I prep bell pepper sandwiches ahead of time?
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Prep and assemble just before eating or wrap them tightly and refrigerate for a quick meal later.
- → Is this a gluten-free lunch option?
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Yes, using bell peppers instead of bread makes this naturally gluten-free; always check label ingredients.
