20-Minute Swiss Broccoli Tomato Melts
Open-faced broccoli and tomato sandwiches topped with melted Swiss cheese on toasted sourdough. The horseradish-spiked mayo adds subtle heat and tang that balances the sweet mustard, while tender broccoli and fresh vegetables provide texture. Perfect for a light lunch or casual dinner. This version combines crisp-tender broccoli with garden-fresh toppings and a zippy spread that makes the broiler-melted cheese sing.
Ingredients
- 2 cup fresh broccoli, coarsely chopped
- 2 slice sourdough bread, 6 to 7 inches diameter, lightly toasted
- 2 tablespoon light mayonnaise
- 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon sweet honey mustard
- 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
- 4 slice yellow or red tomato
- 1 slice red onion, thin, separated into rings
- 4 slice Swiss cheese, 3/4-oz. slices
Instructions
- 1
Combine broccoli with water in small saucepan and bring to a boil.
- 2
Reduce heat, cover, and simmer until crisp-tender.
- 3
Drain broccoli well.
- 4
Place toasted bread slices on ungreased cookie sheet.
- 5
Mix mayonnaise, horseradish, and mustard together.
- 6
Spread mixture evenly on each bread slice.
- 7
Layer mushrooms, cooked broccoli, tomato slices, and onion rings on each slice.
- 8
Top each with cheese slices.
- 9
Broil until cheese melts.
- 10
Serve immediately.
Tips
Drain broccoli thoroughly after cooking to prevent a soggy sandwich base.
Broil from recommended distance and watch closely; cheese melts quickly and can brown rapidly.
Serve immediately after broiling for best cheese pull and temperature contrast.
Good to Know
Best served fresh. Refrigerate cooked melts in airtight container up to 1 day; reheat gently in toaster oven at low temperature to avoid tough cheese.
Prepare vegetables and spread up to 4 hours ahead. Assemble and broil just before serving for optimal texture.
Pair with a light salad, pickle spear, or tomato soup. Serve immediately after broiling.
Common Mistakes
Don't skip draining broccoli to avoid soggy bread
Don't broil longer than 4 minutes to avoid burnt cheese
Don't use pre-shredded cheese which may not melt smoothly
Substitutions
Dairy-Free Swaps
General Alternatives
medium
FAQ
Can I make these ahead and reheat?
Yes. Assemble unbroiled sandwiches, cover, and refrigerate up to 4 hours. Broil from cold, adding 1-2 minutes to cooking time. For best results, assemble and broil fresh.
What if I don't have horseradish?
Replace with Dijon mustard at half strength or increase sweet mustard to 2 teaspoons. The sandwich will be milder but still delicious.
How can I prevent soggy bread?
Toast bread first and drain broccoli very well. Place on cookie sheet so heat reaches the bottom. Serve immediately after broiling.