NATIONAL SANDWICH MONTH

August is National Sandwich Month. The basic concept of the sandwich long predates the Earl of Sandwich, the real-life 18th-century aristocrat who reportedly loved them, and gave them their modern name. The ancient Jewish sage Hillel the Elder is said to have wrapped lamb-meat and bitter herbs between two pieces of matzoh (unleavened bread) during Passover. Early versions of the “wrap” have also been found in Asia and Africa. The sandwich grew in popularity among aristocrats in the 18th and 19th centuries. Legend has it they were popularly shared, held with one hand, during late-night gaming and drinking.

The Encyclopedia of Sandwiches: Recipes, History, and Trivia for Everything Between Sliced Bread Paperback – April 5, 2011

by Susan Russo  (Author), Matt Armendariz  (Photographer)
The Encyclopedia of Sandwiches: Recipes, History, and Trivia for Everything Between Sliced Bread Paperback – April 5, 2011

by Susan Russo  (Author), Matt Armendariz  (Photographer)

According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, a sandwich must have at least 35% cooked meat and be no more than 50% bread. The average American child eats about 1,500 peanut butter and jelly sandwiches before finishing high school. Astronaut John Young once smuggled a corned beef sandwich on board a Gemini flight. Submarine sandwiches are called “hoagies” in Philadelphia and “heroes” in New York. The Dagwood sandwich was first introduced by Chic Young, creator of the Blondie strip, who described the sandwich as a “mountainous pile of dissimilar leftovers.”

Stasher 100% Silicone Reusable Food Bag (Bundle, Aqua)
by Stasher
Stasher 100% Silicone Reusable Food Bag (Bundle, Aqua)

by Stasher


SANDWICH HACKS: HOW TO ENJOY NATIONAL SANDWICH MONTH

  • When making a BLT, weave the bacon together to avoid the bacon from falling out when you bite into it.
  • Worried about “fridge thieves” sealing your sandwich at the office? Get a Moldy Sandwich Bag. The bag isn’t really moldy; it only gives the appearance your lunch looks moldy and spoiled.
  • Instead of bread or toast, make your breakfast sandwiches with waffles.
  • Turn your freshly-baked bread over and slice it on the soft side. That helps prevent squishing the bread.

HISTORY

In 1952, the Wheat Flour Institute established August as National Sandwich Month. Newspapers across the country filled their pages with recipes fit for the Earl of Sandwich and picnics alike. The annual observance continues today.

HOW TO OBSERVE

Try a new sandwich recipe every week and share them on social media! Get some of our family favorites from our recipes page. Wraps, Panninis, and family dinners can be found here. Use #NationalSandwichMonth to post your creations.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Jen’s Perspective Magazine for more special times..

NATIONAL PANINI MONTH

National Panini Month is the perfect time to celebrate the hot, melty sandwich on a beautiful August day. Panini is derived from Italian origin and is basically a grilled sandwich made with non-sliced bread. National Panini Month is an opportunity to break the regular old sandwich habit and panini away!

The Essential Panini Press Cookbook: 100 Creative and Classic Recipes Paperback – May 5, 2020

by Sean Curry  (Author)
The Essential Panini Press Cookbook: 100 Creative and Classic Recipes Paperback – May 5, 2020

by Sean Curry  (Author)

A precursor of panini appeared in a 16th-century Italian cookbook but didn’t become popular 1970s and 1980s. In the 1980s young Italian hipster types who hung out in coffee-and-panini bars were known as “paninari.” The paninari revolted against the drabness of urban culture with colorful Italian fashion and a taste for fast food and “caferacer” motorcycles. Based in Milan, the paninaro craze spread across Italy. The British pop group Pet Shop Boys even recorded a song, Paniniaro, celebrating the paninari culture.

The Everything Panini Press Cookbook Paperback – September 18, 2011

by Anthony Tripodi  (Author)
The Everything Panini Press Cookbook

by Anthony Tripodi  (Author)

There are many different ways to make a panini, original ingredients, or your own creations its sure to hit the spot. Panini’s taste great with ciabatta, rosetta and baguette bread. Panini’s can be made from a variety of options. Paninis are especially good when pressed flat in a “panini press.” They resemble waffle irons, only with flat plates. A panini press is a versatile device. You can use it to make French toast, grilled cheese sandwiches, pita chips, omelets, pizza and your favorite breakfast sandwiches. Paninis go great with chili, coleslaw, French Fried potatoes, and your favorite soup!

I love this grill! I do chicken breasts, porkchops, steaks, fish, bacon comes out divine, and of course my Chipotle Turkey Panini. Works great for grilled cheese too. Sear on a steak? So easy and no worries about condensing water or other pan related issues.

George Foreman GR340FB 4-Serving Classic Plate Electric Indoor Grill and Panini Press, Black

by George Foreman
George Foreman GR340FB 4-Serving Classic Plate Electric Indoor Grill and Panini Press, Black

by George Foreman

If you try these panini variations, let us know your thoughts in the comments.

  • CAPRESE – Mozzarella (smoked optional), tomato and basil, cooked until golden.
  • EGGPLANT-MOZZARELLA – Mozzarella (smoked optional), grilled eggplant and basil, cooked until golden.
  • CAPRESE VARIATIONS – Anchovies and capers, or prosciutto and Parmesan cheese.
  • PESTO TURKEY – A Caprese with pesto and slices of turkey breast.
  • CHICKEN SALTIMBOCCA – Grilled chicken with pesto and prosciutto.
  • APPLE-MANCHEGO – Apple slices and manchego cheese with olive oil and quince paste.
  • THREE-MEAT – Sliced soppressata, capicola, salami, fontina and roasted red peppers.

Did I mention they can be wrapped in parchment paper for an easy lunch. Simply leave it wrapped and microwave for about a minute. One of these and a good cup of soup will help you get through the rest of your day.

HISTORY

Sargento Foods, Inc. founded National Panini Month in 2008.

Reynolds Kitchens Wax Paper Sandwich Bags - 6x7-13/16", 50Count

by Reynolds
Reynolds Kitchens Wax Paper Sandwich Bags – 6×7-13/16″, 50Count

by Reynolds

HOW TO OBSERVE

Enjoy your favorite panini today! Use #NationalPaniniMonth in social media correspondence.

Don’t forget to subscribe to Jen’s Perspective Magazine for more special times..

NATIONAL WINE AND CHEESE DAY

On July 25th, we celebrate the ultimate pairing of wine and cheese. National Wine and Cheese Day provides an opportunity to sample some of our favorites.

Bamboo Charcuterie Cheese Board and Knife Set, Serving Platter Tray with Cutlery Set, Housewarming Gifts, Entertaining Serving Dishes, Cheese Serving Plate, Large Cheese Charcuterie Board

by CAVEPOP
Bamboo Charcuterie Cheese Board and Knife Set, Serving Platter Tray with Cutlery Set, Housewarming Gifts, Entertaining Serving Dishes, Cheese Serving Plate, Large Cheese Charcuterie Board

by CAVEPOP

The pairing of wines and cheese has been a regionalized tradition. Across wine-producing cultures, many pair their regional wines with local cheeses. For example, the French Brie region is noted for its tannic wine varietals. Their Beaujolais goes well with the Brie produced in the area. However, that doesn’t stop a sommelier or cheesemonger from making other recommendations to their clientele.  

[Set of 8, 12 Ounce] All-Purpose Wine Glasses, Lead Free, Classic

by C CREST
[Set of 8, 12 Ounce] All-Purpose Wine Glasses, Lead Free, Classic

by C CREST

Although regional preferences may take precedence in distinct areas, don’t hesitate to accept a sommelier’s suggestion. Sommeliers understand a developing palate. Through experience and skill, they guide those new to wine tasting through the basics. In addition, sommeliers keep sophisticated wine lovers abridged of the latest varietals.

Equally important is the knowledge of the cheesemonger. They’ve developed a knowledge base beyond mold and yeast. Because cheese tops more than a burger or a salad, cheesemongers stay updated on the latest cooking and wine trends. Their highly developed palate leads cheese and wine lovers to the best pairings and satisfying results.

California Delicious Gourmet Cheeseboard Gift

by California Delicious
California Delicious Gourmet Cheeseboard Gift

by California Delicious

Explore More…

HOW TO OBSERVE #NationalWineAndCheeseDay

The day encourages us to try wines and cheese in combinations we’ve never tried before. That is, step away from our ordinary bottle and learn something new. Sampling the complexities in sweetness and acidity and comparing them at a tasting makes for an enjoyable experience. When we add friends to the adventure, the day becomes a celebration, too! Find a favorite wine and sample it with some of your favorite cheeses. Post photos of your favorite pairings on social media.

Use #NationalWineAndCheeseDay when posting on social media. To learn more about Wine and Cheese pairing…

Wine Folly: Magnum Edition: The Master Guide Hardcover – September 25, 2018

by Madeline Puckette  (Author), Justin Hammack (Author)
Wine Folly: Magnum Edition: The Master Guide Hardcover – September 25, 2018

by Madeline Puckette  (Author), Justin Hammack (Author)

Amazon Prime Free Trial
Amazon Prime Free Trial

NATIONAL CHEESE DAY

Moooove over whiners! June 4 is National Cheese Day!

An encyclopedia of cheese will cover the alphabet and broaden your vocabulary. It will undoubtedly contain more varieties of cheese than what’s found at the local grocer. Cheese is produced from the pressed curds of milk. The milk can come from cows, buffalo, goats or sheep. Temperature and aging affect the flavor and texture of the cheese as well as spices and other seasonings added during the process.

The Book of Cheese: The Essential Guide to Discovering Cheeses You'll Love Hardcover – September 26, 2017

by Liz Thorpe  (Author)
The Book of Cheese: The Essential Guide to Discovering Cheeses You’ll Love

by Liz Thorpe  (Author)

The opportunity to go to a cheese tasting or visit a cheesemonger who is knowledgeable about pairings will improve your enjoyment of the cheese you choose.  Does Stilton melt? Can you serve Chévre with a salad? Be sure to ask questions and provide your preferences. Your favorite wine might find a new sidekick. You might discover a smokey spread to go with bruschetta or a tangy cheddar to pack with lunch.

Bamboo Charcuterie Cheese Board and Knife Set, Serving Platter Tray with Cutlery Set, Housewarming Gifts, Entertaining Serving Dishes, Cheese Serving Plate, Large Cheese Charcuterie Board

by CAVEPOP
Bamboo Charcuterie Cheese Board and Knife Set, Serving Platter Tray with Cutlery Set, Housewarming Gifts, Entertaining Serving Dishes, Cheese Serving Plate, Large Cheese Charcuterie Board

by CAVEPOP

In the United States, a road trip to Wisconsin isn’t out of the question for quality and variety. But, they aren’t the only place to find outstanding flavor and choice. Local delis have selections of domestic and imported cheeses, and independent shops offer a rotating inventory beckoning us to keep visiting to see what’s new.

Wisconsin Cheese Blocks - 6 Pack Assorted (New Flavors)

by Perl Creek
Wisconsin Cheese Blocks – 6 Pack Assorted (New Flavors)

by Perl Creek

Excellent as a snack on its own, cheese is also a perfect ingredient in pasta, soups, souffle and many other recipes. We slap it on a sandwich cold but why stop there when it can be grilled and melted into a Grilled Cheese recipe.  When company comes to visit, nothing is better than a cheeseball, especially when bacon is added. Many varieties are Keto diet friendly too.

Cheese is multinational, too! Every nation in the world has its own variety of cheese. Italy seems to have harnessed the market. They did add it to pizza, and that’s pretty amazing.  Savor the opportunity if you ever have the chance to taste cheeses from around the world. For example, hop on over to Greece.  They have this dessert called cheesecake. Delicious!

French Cheeses for the Connoisseur Assortment (30.5 ounce)

by igourmet
French Cheeses for the Connoisseur Assortment (30.5 ounce)

by igourmet

HOW TO OBSERVE

There are many ways to celebrate National Cheese Day.  Try a new recipe or take a risk and try a type of cheese you’ve never heard of before. Ask for recommendations from friends or share your favorites.  Make sure you post to social media using #NationalCheeseDay

NATIONAL PANINI MONTH – August

National Panini Month is the perfect time to celebrate the hot, melty sandwich on a beautiful August day. Panini is derived from Italian origin and is basically a grilled sandwich made with non-sliced bread. National Panini Month is an opportunity to break the regular old sandwich habit and panini away!

The Essential Panini Press Cookbook: 100 Creative and Classic Recipes Paperback – May 5, 2020

by Sean Curry  (Author)
The Essential Panini Press Cookbook: 100 Creative and Classic Recipes Paperback – May 5, 2020

by Sean Curry  (Author)

A precursor of panini appeared in a 16th-century Italian cookbook but didn’t become popular 1970s and 1980s. In the 1980s young Italian hipster types who hung out in coffee-and-panini bars were known as “paninari.” The paninari revolted against the drabness of urban culture with colorful Italian fashion and a taste for fast food and “caferacer” motorcycles. Based in Milan, the paninaro craze spread across Italy. The British pop group Pet Shop Boys even recorded a song, Paniniaro, celebrating the paninari culture.

The Everything Panini Press Cookbook Paperback – September 18, 2011

by Anthony Tripodi  (Author)
The Everything Panini Press Cookbook

by Anthony Tripodi  (Author)

There are many different ways to make a panini, original ingredients, or your own creations its sure to hit the spot. Panini’s taste great with ciabatta, rosetta and baguette bread. Panini’s can be made from a variety of options. Paninis are especially good when pressed flat in a “panini press.” They resemble waffle irons, only with flat plates. A panini press is a versatile device. You can use it to make French toast, grilled cheese sandwiches, pita chips, omelets, pizza and your favorite breakfast sandwiches. Paninis go great with chili, coleslaw, French Fried potatoes, and your favorite soup!

I love this grill! I do chicken breasts, porkchops, steaks, fish, bacon comes out divine, and of course my Chipotle Turkey Panini. Works great for grilled cheese too. Sear on a steak? So easy and no worries about condensing water or other pan related issues.

George Foreman GR340FB 4-Serving Classic Plate Electric Indoor Grill and Panini Press, Black

by George Foreman
George Foreman GR340FB 4-Serving Classic Plate Electric Indoor Grill and Panini Press, Black

by George Foreman

I haven’t tried them all yet but this August seems like an ideal time to do so. With all the at home time, lunches just got a little more gourmet here. If you try these panini variations, let us know your thoughts in the comments.

  • CAPRESE – Mozzarella (smoked optional), tomato and basil, cooked until golden.
  • EGGPLANT-MOZZARELLA – Mozzarella (smoked optional), grilled eggplant and basil, cooked until golden.
  • CAPRESE VARIATIONS – Anchovies and capers, or prosciutto and Parmesan cheese.
  • PESTO TURKEY – A Caprese with pesto and slices of turkey breast.
  • CHICKEN SALTIMBOCCA – Grilled chicken with pesto and prosciutto.
  • APPLE-MANCHEGO – Apple slices and manchego cheese with olive oil and quince paste.
  • THREE-MEAT – Sliced soppressata, capicola, salami, fontina and roasted red peppers.

Did I mention they can be wrapped in parchment paper for an easy lunch. Simply leave it wrapped and microwave for about a minute. One of these and a good cup of soup will help you get through the rest of your day.

Reynolds Kitchens Wax Paper Sandwich Bags - 6x7-13/16", 50Count

by Reynolds
Reynolds Kitchens Wax Paper Sandwich Bags – 6×7-13/16″, 50Count

by Reynolds

HOW TO OBSERVE

Enjoy your favorite panini today! Use #NationalPaniniMonth in social media correspondence.

HISTORY

Sargento Foods, Inc. founded National Panini Month in 2008.

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