Layered for summer: Farmers market pickings fill seasonal sandwiches

I think that this summer, and every summer for that matter, should be declared the summer of sandwiches.

Sure, I’m all for a crisp summer salad or even a refreshing chilled soup. But there is something about sandwiches, their versatility and their portability that can’t be beat during these whirlwind summer months. Whether you are packing a picnic, firing up the grill, or looking to use up odds and ends of the season’s best produce, sandwiches have got you covered from beginning to end.

In terms of portability, a sandwich is the king of any picnic. The most important thing to keep in mind when packing a picnic sandwich is to use a sturdy bread that won’t get soggy before you even spread out your blanket. Baguettes, ciabatta and bagels will all hold up nicely for several hours, no matter what you are putting on them.

Picnic Veggie Sandwiches use bagels and basil cream cheese as a canvas for anything and everything the farmers market has to offer. Spinach, cucumbers and strawberries are a great place to start, but don’t hesitate to add tomatoes, peaches, snap peas or anything else you have on hand.

Green Goddess Egg Salad is another way to use summer’s freshest herbs in a creamy avocado egg salad. Wrap each sandwich tightly in plastic wrap and you are on your way!

Burgers and brats are staples of the backyard cookout all summer. While I would never argue that this should change, I will advocate for a twist on the classic burger. Alternative burgers let you play around with different flavors and provide a nice break for guests.

Firecracker Shrimp Burgers, loaded with spices and sesame seeds and topped with crunchy slaw and creamy avocado tartar sauce, will stand proud next to your cookout standards.

But let’s not forget the days that are not filled with picnics and cookouts. An average busy summer weeknight is the perfect time to clean out any produce odds and ends and put them straight into a satisfying sandwich.

Grilled cheese is always better with some of summer’s juiciest fruits, such as cherries, stone fruits and berries. If you’ve seen it on a cheese plate, chances are it will make a great grilled cheese. Be sure to use a cheese that pairs well with fruit, such as fontina, Gouda or brie. Blackberry and Peach Grilled Cheese is a great place to start.

Finally, when the inevitable tomato overload hits in late summer, BLTs with Caramelized Black Pepper Bacon and Green Chile Mayo are the perfect place to pile up those juicy, colorful slices.

Whether you are cooking out, eating in or taking your food on the go, creating a summer sandwich is a guaranteed home run — with endless flavor combinations, no-hassle preparation and the ability to use every last morsel of summer produce.

RECIPE:Picnic Veggie Sandwiches

RECIPE:Peach and Blackberry Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

RECIPE:Green Goddess Egg Salad Sandwiches

RECIPE:BLTs with Caramelized Black Pepper Bacon and Green Chile Mayo

RECIPE:Firecracker Shrimp Burgers with Sesame Slaw and Avocado Tartar Sauc