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"Pizza" Sandwiches

Peer reviewed by UK recipe editorsAuthored by UK recipe editorsOriginally published 16 Jan 2026

Meets Patient’s editorial guidelines

These pizza-style ciabatta sandwiches offer a sophisticated twist on the classic flavours of a Margherita. By slow-cooking tomato paste with garlic, olive oil, and fragrant dried oregano, you create a deeply savoury and concentrated spread that provides a punchy base for the creamy mozzarella. This vegetarian lunch is a fantastic alternative to a standard sandwich, as the sturdy bread holds up perfectly against the rich fillings.

Ideal for midweek lunches or weekend picnics, these sandwiches can be prepared a day in advance and kept in the fridge, allowing the herbaceous flavours to meld beautifully. For the best result, ensure the mozzarella is well-drained to keep the ciabatta crisp. Serve them cold or at room temperature, perhaps with a handful of peppery rocket for added crunch and brightness.

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Ingredients for "Pizza" Sandwiches

  • 60ml extra-virgin olive oil plus additional for drizzling

  • 4 large garlic cloves, pressed

  • 2 170g cans tomato paste

  • 2 teaspoons sugar

  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

  • 1 teaspoon coarse kosher salt

  • 4 ciabatta rolls or other Italian bread rolls, split horizontally

  • 60g balls mozzarella cheese, thinly sliced, drained on several layers of paper towels

  • 2 cups rocket or mixed greens (optional)

How to make "Pizza" Sandwiches

Place 4 tablespoons oil and garlic in small saucepan. Stir over medium heat until garlic is golden, about 1 minute.

Remove pan from heat; stir in tomato paste. Stir in sugar, oregano, and 1 teaspoon coarse salt. Return pan to heat; cook until tomato spread is bubbling, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove from heat. Cool. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Cover and chill.

Spread 1 teaspoon tomato spread on top and bottom halves of rolls. Divide cheese slices among bottom halves of rolls. Drizzle with oil; sprinkle with salt and pepper. Top with rocket, if using. Cover with roll tops. Cut sandwiches in half; wrap. DO AHEAD: Can be made 1 day ahead. Chill.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 16 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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