Want to master the art of making tartines? Here's your guide to downright delicious, healthy(ish) open-faced sandwiches.
Tartines are fun, versatile, and, most importantly, lighter than normal sandwiches. They’re quick and easy appetizers, but can also be a decent lunch or dinner. Because they’re infinitely variable—you can top them with just about anything to be sweet or savory. In France, where the term is referred to as "open-face sandwich," it is customary to enjoy tartines with butter or jam alongside coffee for breakfast and a savory smear of pate come lunchtime. Follow these ground rules for a tasty open-face sandwich every time and then try out some of our favorite recipes.
Use Sturdy Bread
Bread gives the tartine its structure, so opt for a slice that can stand up to toppings. Dense, nutty multi-grain, or hearty slices of miche are preferable. A crusty baguette cut lengthwise works, although it’s thicker than other slices. Pile it with more toppings for a one-to-one ratio of bread to toppings in every bite.
Toast the Bread
While not all tartines need to be toasted, it can help once you start building the sandwich. Toasting gives the bread a sturdy crunch so it won’t get soggy under the toppings. Tartines only need to be lightly toasted to help create a firm base.
Dress the Bread
Drizzle some olive oil, or smear the bread with butter, mayo, jam, pesto, hummus, or whatever your favorite condiment may be. If you're going the savory route, season with salt and pepper after adding the condiment to the bread.
Thinly Slice Your Veggies
Tartines are a delicate sandwich, so you'll want to top them with thinly sliced veggies. Use your sharpest knife, a mandolin, or a Y-shaped vegetable peeler to create paper-thin slices.
Dress Your Vegetables
Once you slice your veggies, you'll want to toss them in lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, or all of the above before adding to the tartine. Dressing your veggies will help tenderize the toppings and also enhance their natural flavors.
Stack Smart
Small, roll-y ingredients like capers or diced onion should go right against the bread—they’ll stick to the spread instead of falling off. When layering, alternate textured ingredients like lettuce with slippery ones like sliced tomatoes.
Make It Pop
Garnish your tartines with one or two ingredients that add texture and color. A dash of hot sauce, fresh leafy herbs, red pepper flakes, or cracked black pepper can all make this open-face sandwich pop.
Tartines Recipes to Try
Now that you have the basics for constructing a delicious tartine, it's time to put the skills to use by testing out a few of our favorite recipes.
Herby Chicken Salad Tartines
Got 20 minutes and a rotisserie chicken? Then you've got dinner. Everyone needs a great recipe for a classic chicken salad, and this one should be yours.
Loaded Tuna Salad Tartines Are an Easy 20-Minute Meal
Jen Causey
This open-faced sandwich is the elevated version of an old-time favorite. Tartine is the French word for an open-faced sandwich, and if you’re a fan of tuna sandwiches, this is one tartine not to miss.
Butternut Squash Tartines
Victor Protasio
This delicious open-faced sandwich is a hearty party bite with tender slices of squash, a bit of creaminess, and a touch of crunch. This tartine is the perfect appetizer for a holiday dinner party (and frankly, makes for a satisfying lunch, too).
Spring Greens Tartine With Prosciutto, Fontina, and a Fried Egg
We present you with the new and improved breakfast sandwich. With crispy prosciutto, melty fontina cheese, and irresistible fried eggs, this tartine is perfect.
This article was written by Heath Goldman from Real Simple and was legally licensed through the DiveMarketplace by Industry Dive. Please direct all licensing questions to legal@industrydive.com.
