Cool Cucumber Sandwich

Five ingredients, five minutes, zero cooking (besides the toast and bacon). Thin cucumber slices, crispy bacon, and a tomato slice get stacked on Italian dressing-spread toast for a sandwich that’s crunchy, cool, and smoky all at once.

The Italian dressing does the work of both spread and seasoning here. It brings herby, tangy flavor that ties together the mild cucumber, the rich bacon, and the juicy tomato without needing mayo, mustard, or any other condiments.

Slice the cucumbers thin so they layer flat and don’t slide around when you bite in. Thick slices pop out the sides and take half the sandwich with them.

Kitchen Tips

• Toast the bread well. Firm, crispy toast holds up against the moisture from the cucumber and tomato. Soft bread turns soggy fast.
• Pat the cucumber slices dry if they’re especially wet. Excess moisture on the cucumber makes the toast lose its crunch.
• Use thick-cut bacon for more crunch and smokiness in every bite.

Variations

• Add a leaf of butter lettuce or a slice of avocado for extra freshness.
• Swap Italian dressing for ranch or a garlic herb cream cheese spread.
• Use everything bagels sliced in half instead of toast for a heartier base.