Perfect Tomato Sandwich

As far as summer foods go, my family waits for berries and tomatoes. And one of the purest ways to enjoy a tomato is on a tomato sandwich. Simple, basic and humble. And ridiculously delicious.

I've tried many fancy variations, but I always come back to this simple version that really showcases the tomato. Give it a try - I bet you'll be hooked too.

Step 1: Good Ingredients

Start with a good, hearty sliced bread (though I have to admit, as a kid, we used white bread)

Fresh tomatoes, sliced thick - at least 8mm

Good mayonnaise, nothing flavored!

Salt

Step 2: Toast

Toast your bread on medium so that the bread is nicely browned, but has no burnt spots.

Then let it sit in the toaster to cool down and get more moisture out. Five minutes is usually good. (Sometimes this is when I slice the tomatoes.) If the bread is too hot, the mayo just melts in - not the plan.

When the toast is barely warm, spread a thin layer of mayo on each slice of toast. The amount is often a matter of personal preference, but you do need enough mayo to combine with the tomato juice into a yummy sauce.

Step 3: Ripe, Red Tomatoes

Lay your tomato slices on one slice of toast as evenly as possible.

Step 4: Season

Super basic - just salt.

Sprinkle more than you think you need (a very light, even coating). The salt brings out the sweetness of the tomatoes.

Step 5: Be Patient

Put on the 2nd slice of toast and press gently. Yes, some juice will squish out - I didn't say this was a neat sandwich - just very tasty! Now wait a few more minutes. In this time, the juice from the tomatoes, the mayo and the salt are combining into pure tomato deliciousness. The inside of the toast will be saucy and the outside should still be crunchy.

Now pour a glass of iced tea and enjoy!