Recipe: Tomato, Oregano, and Goat Cheese Sandwiches

TOMATO, OREGANO, AND GOAT CHEESE SANDWICHES

"This simple sandwich is simply terrific. It's best when tomatoes are in full flavor and color."

4 ounces goat cheese, softened
8 slices peasant or sourdough bread about 1 inch thick (1 ounce per slice)*
2 large tomatoes
2 sprigs of fresh oregano
Freshly ground pepper
Balsamic vinegar
Scant 1/4 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil (optional)

Slice cheese into eight pieces and spread on bread.

Remove and discard seeds from tomatoes, then cut tomatoes into 1/4-inch slices.

To assemble, put tomatoes on cheese. Sprinkle with oregano leaves. Grind pepper over each sandwich and drizzle sparingly with vinegar. Top each sandwich with about 3 drops olive oil.

*If the loaf of bread is large, use four slices. Cut each one in half for easier eating.

Makes 4 servings; 2 open-face sandwiches per serving

PER SERVING, Calories 249, Protein 11 g, Carbohydrates 34 g, Cholesterol 13 mg, Total Fat 8 g, Saturated 5 g, Polyunsaturated 1 g, Monounsaturated 2 g, Fiber 3 g, Sodium 459 mg

Source: American Heart Association Meals in Minutes by The American Heart Association