California Wheat Open-Faced Squares
Crunchy, cheesy open-faced tomato and bacon sandwiches with fresh flavors, perfect for a quick lunch or casual dinner that appeals to all ages.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Wash and thinly slice the tomatoes.
- Slice the wheat rolls or bread in half and place them on a broiler or jelly roll pan.
- Place one slice of American cheese on top of each bread half.
- Add a slice of tomato on top of the cheese and lightly season with salt and pepper.
- Place one slice of precooked bacon on top of each tomato slice.
- Place the open-faced sandwiches on the top shelf of the oven and set the broiler to high, leaving the door cracked open.
- Broil until the bacon is crisp and the cheese is melted.
- Serve the open-faced squares on a plate at the table.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fresher flavor, try using heirloom tomatoes in this recipe. If you prefer a bit of heat, consider adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce on top of the tomatoes. You can substitute the American cheese with cheddar or mozzarella for a different taste. Additionally, if you're short on time, pre-cooked bacon can be a great shortcut.
Serving Suggestions
These open-faced squares are perfect for a light lunch or a quick dinner. Serve with a side salad or some crispy potato wedges for a satisfying meal. They also pair beautifully with a chilled glass of iced tea or a light white wine, enhancing the fresh flavors of the tomatoes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, place the open-faced squares on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until heated through and the cheese is bubbly again. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of California Wheat Open-Faced Squares contains roughly 38 calories, with 4g protein, 1g carbohydrates, and 2g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 775mg per serving (34% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and consider adding extra vegetables like avocado or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. You could also add a sprinkle of nutritional yeast to give a cheesy flavor without using dairy.
What type of bread works best for this recipe?
Wheat rolls or hearty whole grain bread are ideal for this recipe due to their texture and flavor. However, you can also use sourdough or even gluten-free bread if you prefer. Just ensure the bread can hold the toppings without getting soggy.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the open-faced sandwiches by assembling them in advance. Store them in the refrigerator for a few hours before broiling. Just make sure to cover them well to prevent the bread from drying out.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).