Sandwiches and wraps are meals you can hold in your hand. Bread, a wrap, or a pita holds the filling, and the filling can be almost anything. Meat, cheese, eggs, vegetables, and a good spread all work well.

This section has four parts. Sandwiches use sliced bread, rolls, or buns. Wraps roll fillings in a soft flatbread. Paninis are pressed and toasted until crisp. Shawarma and gyros use seasoned, slow-cooked meat with sauce in warm pita or flatbread.

Questions folks ask

How do I keep a sandwich from getting soggy?

Spread a thin layer of butter or mayo on the bread first. Dry wet fillings with a paper towel and pack very juicy items on the side.

What is the difference between a sandwich and a wrap?

A sandwich usually uses sliced bread, a roll, or a bun. A wrap uses a soft, thin flatbread that is rolled around the filling.

Can I make sandwiches ahead of time?

Many can be made a few hours ahead if you wrap them tightly and keep them cold. Add tomatoes and sauces just before eating.

Kitchen tips

Spread butter, mayo, or a sauce edge to edge so every bite has flavor.
Pat wet fillings like tomatoes and pickles dry so the bread stays firm.
Warm your bread or wraps briefly before filling so they bend without tearing.
Set out fillings in bowls and let everyone build their own.
Wrap leftovers tightly and keep them cold until lunchtime.