Tropical Cuban Sandwich

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook: 7 min
🍽 Serves: 4
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If you're looking for a sandwich that combines savory, sweet, and tangy flavors, this Tropical Cuban Sandwich is your answer. It's a delightful twist on the classic, bringing a touch of the tropics to your plate. Perfect for summer barbecues or a unique lunch option, this sandwich will transport you to a sunny beach with every bite.

Ingredients for Tropical Cuban Sandwich

The backbone of this sandwich is the roasted pork shoulder, bringing rich and savory flavors. Add some classic sliced ham for that traditional Cuban touch. The Swiss cheese melts beautifully, adding creaminess. Instead of just plain pickles, we’re adding a fruity layer with pineapple slices and a zesty mango salsa for a fresh, tropical flair. The combination of yellow mustard and mayonnaise creates a tangy sauce that ties everything together. And don’t forget the Cuban rolls or soft baguettes to hold this flavor-packed sandwich. A touch of butter crisps up the bread perfectly, and finally, the dill pickle slices add that necessary crunch and acidity.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you don’t have a panini press, use a heavy skillet to press the sandwich down while grilling.
  • For extra flavor, marinate the pork shoulder in citrus juice and garlic before roasting.
  • Try adding a slice of avocado for a creamy texture boost.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this sandwich with a light, refreshing salad like a cucumber and avocado salad. For drinks, a cold mojito or iced tea with a splash of lime complements the tropical flavors beautifully. If you’re serving this at a party, consider making mini versions for easy sharing.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different cheese?
Absolutely! Provolone or even a mild cheddar can work if you prefer.
What if I can't find Cuban rolls?
Soft baguettes or ciabatta are good substitutes. Just make sure they’re not too crusty so the sandwich presses well.

Tropical Cuban Sandwich Recipe Walkthrough

Start by preheating your griddle or panini press to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice, crispy crust on your sandwich. While that's heating, take your Cuban rolls and slice them in half. Spread some butter on the outside of each half – this will give you that golden, crunchy exterior we all love.

In a small bowl, mix together the yellow mustard and mayonnaise. This sauce will add a creamy, tangy layer to your sandwich. Spread a generous amount on the inside of the bottom half of each roll.

Now, it's time to layer up. Place the roasted pork, followed by the sliced ham and Swiss cheese. Add your pineapple slices for that tropical sweetness, and then spoon over some mango salsa for a zesty kick.

Top everything off with dill pickle slices, then place the top half of the roll on and gently press down. This helps keep everything together and makes it easier to handle on the griddle.

Carefully place the sandwich on the preheated griddle or panini press. Grill it for about 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is perfectly melted. Once done, slice each sandwich in half and serve hot.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Tropical twist on a classic Cuban sandwich.
  • Easy to make and packed with bold flavors.
  • Perfect balance of sweet, savory, and tangy.
  • Great way to use leftover roasted pork.
  • Customizable with your favorite tropical ingredients.

Ingredients

1 lb roasted pork shoulder
8 oz sliced ham
8 slices of Swiss cheese
4 Cuban rolls or soft baguettes
1/2 cup pineapple slices
1/4 cup mango salsa
1/4 cup yellow mustard
1/4 cup mayonnaise
4 tablespoons butter
8 dill pickle slices

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Preheat a griddle or panini press to medium-high heat.
2. Slice the Cuban rolls in half and spread butter on the outside of each half.
3. In a small bowl, mix the yellow mustard and mayonnaise together to create a sauce.
4. On the inside of the bottom half of each roll, spread a generous amount of the mustard-mayo sauce.
5. Layer the roasted pork, ham, Swiss cheese, pineapple slices, and mango salsa evenly on the rolls.
6. Add dill pickle slices evenly on top.
7. Place the top half of the roll over the fillings and gently press down.
8. Grill the sandwich on the preheated griddle or panini press for 5-7 minutes, or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
9. Slice each sandwich in half and serve hot.

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