Party Sandwich Loaf
A colorful and savory layered party sandwich loaf featuring cream cheese, chicken salad, tomatoes, onions, and garnishes, perfect for gatherings and special occasions.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Cut the crust from the loaf of bread.
- Cut the loaf into 3 or 4 slices lengthwise.
- Spread cream cheese or butter on each layer.
- Spread a layer of chicken salad, followed by sliced tomatoes and onions, then a layer of egg salad garnished with slices of pimentos or anchovies.
- Chill the loaf and place it on a platter.
- Cover the loaf on all sides with cream cheese as if icing a cake.
- Add food coloring to remaining cream cheese, put into a pastry tube, and decorate the loaf with flowers, leaves, or writing.
- Decorate the bottom of the loaf where it meets the plate as well.
- Chill the loaf overnight, then slice and serve with tossed salad.
Tips & Substitutions
For a fun twist, consider adding chopped herbs like dill or chives to the cream cheese for extra flavor. If you prefer a lighter option, swap the chicken salad with a tuna salad or a vegetable spread. Ensure the bread is fresh for the best texture, and you can use whole grain bread for a healthier choice. This can also be made a day ahead for convenience.
Serving Suggestions
This Party Sandwich Loaf pairs beautifully with a tossed salad or fresh fruit for a light meal. It’s perfect for picnics or gatherings and can be presented on a decorative platter. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside soups like Robin's Hearty Chicken Soup or a side of chips for crunch.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover sandwich loaf wrapped tightly in plastic wrap or in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It is best enjoyed within 2-3 days. If you need to reheat it, slice individual portions and let them come to room temperature before serving, as the cream cheese can become too soft if heated.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Party Sandwich Loaf contains roughly 522 calories, with 12g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 50g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin A (58% of the Daily Value) and protein (25% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 761mg per serving (33% 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 sandwich loaf ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sandwich loaf a day in advance. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and refrigerate overnight. This will allow the flavors to meld and make it easier to slice when ready to serve.
What can I use instead of cream cheese?
If you're looking for a lighter alternative, you can substitute cream cheese with Greek yogurt or a dairy-free cream cheese. Both options will still provide a creamy texture and flavor, making them suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
How should I cut and serve the sandwich loaf?
To serve, slice the sandwich loaf into thick pieces using a serrated knife to maintain its structure. Arrange the slices on a platter, and consider garnishing with fresh herbs or additional pimentos for an appealing presentation.
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).