5 Sandwich Ideas Using Fridge & Pantry Staples

In the hustle and bustle of work life, finding time to prepare a satisfying and tasty lunch can be a challenge. However, with a little creativity and some time over the week(end) dedicated to grocery shopping and food preparation, you can easily whip up some delicious lunches that will make your midday meal a delight. In this article, we’ll explore how taking a look at what you already have in your fridge, freezer and pantry can often help inspire your weekly meals, all the while keeping your weekly food budget both reasonable and minimal. On busier weeks, I love keeping my lunches simple…with a sandwich!

Here are five mouthwatering sandwich ideas using common staples you likely already have at home.

1.The Class Tuna/Egg Sandwich

Main Pantry/Fridge/Freezer Ingredients

• Canned fish or Eggs

• Capers

• Yogurt

Assembly

Mix canned tuna with your choice of mashed avocado, mayo and/or Greek yogurt, chopped celery, finely chopped red onion, a splash of lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Spread this delicious mixture onto whole wheat wraps for a protein-packed, creamy delight and serve with an array of vegetable sticks.

My favourite recipes

• Salmon Dill Salad Sandwiches

• Tuna Wraps

• Avocado Egg Salad Sandwich

2. Spring Rolls

Main Pantry/Fridge/Freezer Ingredients

• Rice paper

• Edamame

• Nut butter

• Maple syrup

• Soya sauce

Assembly

Dip rice paper in warm water until pliable, then lay it on a clean surface. Fill it with a colorful assortment of veggies like julienned carrots, cucumber, and fresh herbs. Add cooked shrimp or tofu for your main source of protein. Roll it up, tucking in the sides, and enjoy with a zesty dipping sauce. These light and flavorful rice paper rolls make for a perfect, healthy snack or meal.

My favourite recipes

• Shrimp Spring Rolls

• Tofu Spring Rolls

3. Chickpea Sandwich

Main Pantry/Fridge/Freezer Ingredients

• Chickpeas

• Hot sauce

• Yogurt or Tahini

Assembly

Combine canned chickpeas with yogurt/tahini, a dash of mayo and spices for an extra flavor kick. Spread a tortilla wrap, add the seasoned chickpeas, crunchy lettuce, and fresh veggies of choice. Fold it into a wrap, and savor the perfect blend of heat and coolness in every bite!

My favourite recipes

• Buffalo Chickpea Salad Sandwich

• Smashed Chickpea Salad

• Chickpea “Egg” Salad Sandwich
  

4. Japanese Rice balls

Main Pantry/Fridge/Freezer Ingredients

• Rice

• Furikake

• Miso

• Canned fish

• Seaweed

Assembly

Start by mixing canned tuna with a savoury dressing or your choice of furikake (rice seasoning). Lay the nori, add on the rice and tuna, then form a handroll wrap. Include avocado slices and cucumber for freshness or serve with vegetables on the side.

My favourite recipes

• Miso Tuna Wraps

• Onigiri (Japanese Rice Balls)
  

5. Chicken Sandwich

Main Pantry/Fridge/Freezer Ingredients

• Cranberry sauce

• Mustard or mayonnaise

• Nuts

• Spinach

Assembly

Start with a grilled or baked chicken as your foundation. Layer it on a whole-grain bun, add crisp lettuce, juicy tomato slices, and any preferred veggies, then finish with a dollop of light mayo or a tangy yogurt-based dressing for a satisfying and nutritious meal.

My favourite recipes

• Thanksgiving Sandwich

• Chicken, Spinach & Mustard Sandwich

These five types of sandwiches not only make the most of your fridge and pantry staples, but also deliver a variety of flavors to keep your work lunches exciting. So, the next time you're in need of a quick and delicious midday meal, give one of these recipes a try and elevate your lunchtime experience.

Keep calm and sandwich on.