Sandwich

"A couple of years ago I decided to become a vegetarian. As time went on, the only things I really missed were some of the heartier sandwiches I used to make," says Jill Browning of Clarendon Hills, Illinois. "But then I created this meatless pita bread sandwich that's as substantial as any hoagie—and much lower in fat."

"My family has subscribed to Gourmet since 1942 or 1943," says Hope Mihalap of Norfolk, Virginia. "This uncomplicated hors d'oeuvre was first served to me at a cocktail party in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, some 35 years ago." "Since then I have discovered other people who make it. Some thinly slice the onion and top it with the mayonnaise and cheese, while others chop the onion and mix it into the mayonnaise. Either way, it's delicious." This is one retro recipe we're glad to revisit. Of the two preparation methods Hope Mihalap describes, we preferred chopping up the onions — the toasts are a bit easier to eat that way. Active time: 5 min Start to finish: 15 min

Leaving a bit of skin on the eggplant adds to the pesto's texture and color. Pour a Pinot Noir or Provençal rosé with the meal.

Cemitas de Carne Enchilada A cemita is an oversize, slightly sweet, sesame seed bun that gives this Pueblan sandwich its name. Active time: 1 hr Start to finish: 3 hr

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

This recipe can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Serve with potato chips, a heap of tangy coleslaw, and some sweet gherkins. Finish with strawberry ice cream and chocolate cookies. By the way, the filling for these quick sandwiches is delicious on toasted English muffins for breakfast.

Miso is a combination of soybeans and rice (or another grain) that produces a thick, salty and flavorful paste. Here, it replaces mayonnaise or mustard as a spread for grilled cheese sandwiches.

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.

Originally from Catalonia, a region in northern Spain that surrounds the city of Barcelona, this appetizer is now found all over the country. If not serving immediately, pass the toppings on the side so that the bread doesn't get soggy.

These little toasts make a crisp base for savory toppings of eggplant and roasted peppers , chickpeas and mint , and sweet-and-sour onions . Mix and match as you please — if you prefer one topping over another, the recipes can easily be doubled. Active time: 5 min Start to finish: 20 min

Can be prepared in 45 minutes or less.