A high-protein, vegan meal that feels indulgent yet nourishing? The heirloom tomato sandwich with pesto cream cheese is exactly that.
Packed with fresh flavors, creamy textures, and plant-based protein, this sandwich is a satisfying option for lunch, dinner, or even a hearty snack. If you love simple vegan recipes that don’t skimp on flavor, this one is for you.
Why You’ll Love This Sandwich
This sandwich isn’t just about taste—it’s about balance. The sweetness of heirloom tomatoes, the richness of pesto cream cheese, and the crunch of toasted sourdough come together perfectly.
Each bite delivers a mix of textures and flavors that will leave you craving more.
But what truly sets this sandwich apart is its protein content. Many vegan recipes focus on vegetables but sometimes lack enough protein to keep you full.
This one, however, is powered by tofu-based cream cheese, walnuts, and hemp seeds, making it both flavorful and filling.
How to Customize Your Sandwich
One of the best things about this recipe is how easily it can be adapted to different tastes and dietary needs. Here are a few ways to switch things up:
- Gluten-free: Swap the sourdough for your favorite gluten-free bread.
- Nut-free: Replace walnuts with sunflower seeds or extra hemp seeds.
- Extra protein: Add tempeh bacon or an extra layer of tofu slices.
- More greens: Layer in spinach, kale, or microgreens for extra nutrients.
- Tangy twist: Swap balsamic glaze for a squeeze of lemon or a drizzle of tahini.
Simple changes like these allow you to tailor the sandwich to your preferences while keeping it delicious and satisfying.
Tips for the Best Flavor
The key to an amazing heirloom tomato sandwich lies in the quality of the ingredients. Here’s how to make sure every bite is perfect:
- Choose ripe heirloom tomatoes: Their natural sweetness and juiciness enhance the sandwich.
- Use fresh basil: It brings out the best in the pesto cream cheese.
- Toast the bread: This adds crunch and helps hold the creamy filling.
- Don’t skip the drizzle: A little olive oil and balsamic glaze elevate the flavors.
These small details make a big difference in turning a simple sandwich into a gourmet experience.
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
If you like to plan your meals in advance, this sandwich can easily fit into your meal prep routine. While the sandwich itself is best enjoyed fresh, the pesto cream cheese can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to three days.
For easy meal prep:
- Make the pesto cream cheese in advance and store it in an airtight container.
- Slice the tomatoes and store them separately to keep the bread from getting soggy.
- Toast the bread just before assembling for the best texture.
If you need a grab-and-go lunch, keep the components separate and assemble them just before eating. This keeps everything fresh and delicious.
What to Serve with It
While this sandwich is satisfying on its own, pairing it with the right sides can make it even better. Try these options:
- A side of roasted chickpeas for extra crunch and protein.
- A bowl of vegetable soup for a cozy, balanced meal.
- A fresh fruit salad to complement the savory flavors.
- Sweet potato fries for a hearty, nutrient-rich side.
These pairings round out the meal, making it a complete and nourishing option.
If you’re looking for a high-protein vegan sandwich that’s bursting with flavor, this heirloom tomato sandwich with pesto cream cheese is a must-try. It’s quick to make, easy to customize, and packed with nourishing ingredients that will keep you full and energized.
High-Protein Vegan Heirloom Tomato Sandwich with Pesto Cream Cheese
Ingredients
For the Sandwich:
- 2 slices sourdough bread use gluten-free if needed
- Pinch of salt
- Small handful of arugula
- 2-3 thick slices heirloom tomato
- 1 teaspoon shelled hemp seeds
- Few fresh basil leaves optional
- Balsamic glaze for drizzling
- Olive oil for drizzling
For the Pesto Cream Cheese:
- 3.5 oz firm tofu drained
- ½ oz nutritional yeast
- ½ oz walnuts
- Small handful of fresh basil leaves
Instructions
- Prepare the Pesto Cream Cheese: In a food processor, blend the tofu, nutritional yeast, walnuts, and basil leaves until a thick, smooth paste forms. Set aside.
- Toast the Bread: Lightly toast both slices of sourdough. Once toasted, drizzle each slice with olive oil and sprinkle with a pinch of salt for added flavor.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Evenly spread the prepared pesto cream cheese over both slices of bread.
- Layer the Ingredients: Add arugula on one slice, followed by thick slices of heirloom tomato. Drizzle with balsamic glaze for extra depth of flavor.
- Add the Finishing Touches: Sprinkle shelled hemp seeds over the tomatoes and add fresh basil leaves if desired.
- Complete the Sandwich: Place the second slice of bread on top, press gently, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Keep any leftover pesto cream cheese refrigerated for up to 3 days.
- This sandwich is best enjoyed fresh and is not freezer-friendly.
Nutrition
Davin is a jack-of-all-trades but has professional training and experience in various home and garden subjects. He leans on other experts when needed and edits and fact-checks all articles.