Craving a comforting yet sophisticated meal that's surprisingly quick to make? Look no further than this open face roast beef recipe! This easy recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner, a casual weekend lunch, or even a light yet impressive appetizer. Forget complicated cooking techniques; this dish focuses on simple, fresh ingredients to deliver maximum flavor. It's a fantastic example of how homemade cooking can be both delicious and effortless.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb thinly sliced roast beef (deli-style is perfectly fine!)
- 4 crusty rolls or bread slices
- 4 tablespoons horseradish cream (store-bought or homemade – see variation below)
- 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
- 1 cup arugula or spinach
- 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (optional, but highly recommended!)
- 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions:
Getting Started:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). This step ensures the bread is perfectly toasted and the roast beef is gently warmed.
Assembling Your Open Faced Sandwiches:
- Lightly brush both sides of your bread slices with olive oil. This adds a touch of richness and prevents them from becoming too dry.
- Toast the bread in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy. Keep a close eye on them to avoid burning!
- While the bread is toasting, prepare your toppings. This ensures everything is ready when your toast is perfect.
Layering the Flavors:
- Spread a tablespoon of Dijon mustard evenly on each toasted bread slice.
- Top with a generous portion of thinly sliced roast beef.
- Dollop a tablespoon of horseradish cream onto the roast beef. The creaminess of the horseradish complements the richness of the beef beautifully.
- Arrange a bed of arugula or spinach on top of the horseradish cream. The peppery bite of arugula adds a nice contrast.
- Sprinkle with crumbled blue cheese (if using) and thinly sliced red onion. The blue cheese provides a salty tang, while the red onion adds a pleasant sharpness.
Serving and Enjoying:
- Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. A little goes a long way!
- Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious and easy open face roast beef sandwiches!
Cooking Tips for the Best Results:
- Bread Choice: Choose a sturdy bread that can hold up to the toppings without becoming soggy. Crusty rolls or hearty bread slices work best.
- Roast Beef Quality: The quality of your roast beef directly impacts the flavor of the dish. Look for thinly sliced roast beef with a good marbling of fat for best results.
- Horseradish Cream: If making your own horseradish cream, simply combine sour cream or crème fraîche with prepared horseradish to taste. Start with a small amount of horseradish and add more to your preference.
Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the horseradish cream for a kick.
- Veggie boost: Include other vegetables like roasted bell peppers or caramelized onions for extra flavor and color.
- Cheese alternatives: Swap the blue cheese for another cheese you enjoy, such as cheddar, Gruyere, or provolone.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-450 (depending on ingredients used)
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbohydrates: 20-25g
This easy recipe makes for a quick dinner idea or a delicious lunch. It's versatile, adaptable to your preferences, and guaranteed to satisfy your cravings for a flavorful and satisfying meal. Enjoy!