Some sandwiches are just iconic, and few have achieved the star power and cultural resonance of the legendary “What She’s Having” sandwich. This unassuming yet utterly delicious creation earned its fame through a memorable moment in cinema history, further cemented by a recent, buzz-worthy Super Bowl ad for Hellmann’s mayonnaise. Featuring the beloved duo Billy Crystal and Meg Ryan, the ad humorously reenacted their iconic deli scene from “When Harry Met Sally,” bringing a new generation into the fold of this sandwich’s enduring allure.
The scene itself is legendary: Meg Ryan’s character, Sally, demonstrates her dramatic (and very convincing) fake orgasm, culminating in a bystander’s now-famous line, “I’ll have what she’s having!” This simple phrase perfectly captured the universal desire for something truly satisfying, and in the culinary world, that desire points directly to this sandwich. It’s more than just a meal; it’s a cultural touchstone, a symbol of pure, unadulterated enjoyment that anyone can recreate in their own kitchen. And honestly, who wouldn’t want a bite of that? It’s an easy, yet deeply satisfying and incredibly delicious sandwich; here’s how to make it and discover its magic for yourself.
This isn’t just any ordinary turkey sandwich; it’s a meticulously crafted symphony of flavors and textures designed to create an unforgettable eating experience. Each component plays a crucial role in achieving the perfect balance: the golden, perfectly toasted rye bread provides a sturdy and flavorful foundation, while crisp leaf lettuce adds a refreshing crunch. Juicy, ripe beefsteak tomato contributes a burst of freshness, complemented by the tender, high-quality deli turkey that forms the savory heart of the sandwich. Creamy, subtly nutty Swiss cheese melts harmoniously, bringing a rich depth, and the tangy crunch of a half-sour dill pickle cuts through the richness, awakening the palate with every bite. The final, essential touch is a generous spread of Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise, binding everything together with its unmistakable creamy zest. Whether you’re a long-time fan of the movie, recreating the iconic scene at home, or simply looking for a quick, satisfying, and truly delicious meal, this sandwich transcends its humble ingredients to deliver a culinary experience that lives up to all the hype.
The Anatomy of a Perfect Bite: Why Each Ingredient Matters
The magic of the “What She’s Having” sandwich lies in its simplicity and the quality of its components. Achieving that iconic flavor isn’t just about throwing ingredients together; it’s about understanding the role each one plays. Let’s break down why these specific items are essential for creating the ultimate classic deli sandwich:
- Light Rye Bread: The Foundation. Unseeded light rye bread offers a subtly tangy flavor and a firm yet yielding texture that stands up to all the fillings without getting soggy. While you technically *could* use other types of bread, the rye is crucial for that authentic deli experience. Its robust flavor complements the turkey and cheese perfectly, providing a hearty base for this gourmet sandwich. If unseeded isn’t available, a lightly seeded rye will also work beautifully, adding another layer of texture.
- Swiss Cheese: The Creamy Layer. Thinly sliced Swiss cheese, with its characteristic holes and mild, slightly nutty flavor, adds a creamy, savory dimension. It melts ever so slightly when warmed by the toasted bread, creating a comforting texture and enriching the overall taste profile. Alpine Swiss is particularly recommended for its superior quality and flavor.
- Beefsteak Tomato: The Juicy Freshness. A large, ripe beefsteak tomato is key for delivering juicy, fresh flavor. Sliced nice and thin, it provides moisture and a bright, slightly acidic counterpoint to the richness of the turkey and cheese. The thin slices ensure that the tomato doesn’t overwhelm the other ingredients but rather integrates seamlessly into each bite.
- Leaf Lettuce: The Essential Crunch. Crisp leaf lettuce, such as romaine, provides a vital layer of freshness and a satisfying crunch. It acts as a barrier, protecting the bread from moisture while adding a vibrant green color and a clean, refreshing taste that lightens the sandwich.
- Half Sour Dill Pickle: The Tangy Kick. This is where the sandwich truly distinguishes itself. A half-sour dill pickle offers a unique tangy flavor and a delightful crunch that regular pickles can’t replicate. Slicing it thinly lengthwise ensures that you get a bit of that zesty, briny goodness in every single bite, cutting through the richness and adding a fantastic zest.
- Sliced Turkey: The Savory Heart. Opt for good quality deli turkey, sliced not too thin, to ensure a substantial and flavorful core. High-quality turkey provides a savory, lean protein that is both tender and flavorful. Avoid overly processed or wafer-thin slices, as they won’t provide the satisfying texture and taste needed for this iconic sandwich.
- Salt and Pepper: The Seasoning. Simple yet critical. A light seasoning of salt and freshly cracked black pepper enhances all the natural flavors of the fresh ingredients, bringing them to life and ensuring a well-rounded taste.
- Hellmann’s® Real Mayonnaise: The Binding Agent and Flavor Enhancer. This is non-negotiable for an authentic “What She’s Having” experience. Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise provides the creamy, tangy lubrication that binds all the ingredients together. Its rich, unmistakable flavor is iconic and integral to the sandwich’s profile, delivering that perfect, zesty creaminess that makes every bite truly exceptional.
How to Make the Iconic “What She’s Having” Sandwich
Crafting this celebrated sandwich is a straightforward process, but paying attention to the details will elevate it from a good sandwich to an extraordinary one. Follow these steps for a truly authentic and satisfying result:
- Prepare the Bread: Begin by toasting two slices of light rye bread until they are golden brown and crisp. The perfect toast should be firm enough to hold all the fillings without becoming soggy, yet still have a slight chew. This crisp exterior is a cornerstone of the sandwich’s texture.
- First Mayo Layer: On one slice of the perfectly toasted bread, squeeze a generous squiggle of Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise. Don’t be shy here; the mayo is crucial for flavor and moisture. Spread it evenly to cover the entire surface.
- Lettuce Base: Place one whole leaf of crisp romaine or leaf lettuce directly onto the mayo-coated bread. This layer serves as a fresh foundation and helps to prevent the bread from getting damp from the other ingredients.
- Layer the Turkey: Evenly layer your high-quality, thinly sliced deli turkey over the lettuce. Aim for about 5 ounces of turkey for a substantial and satisfying filling. Fan out the slices slightly to ensure an even distribution.
- Add the Swiss Cheese: Next, place the slices of Alpine Swiss cheese on top of the turkey. The cheese adds a creamy, nutty flavor and a delightful texture contrast.
- Arrange the Pickles: Slice the half-sour dill pickle lengthwise into thin strips. Arrange these strips strategically over the cheese and turkey, ensuring that every single bite of your sandwich gets a delightful burst of tangy pickle flavor and a satisfying crunch.
- Slice and Layer Tomato: Thinly slice the beefsteak tomato into paper-thin rounds. Layer these delicate slices over the pickles. Super-thin slices are important to prevent the tomato from making the sandwich watery or overpowering the other flavors.
- Season to Taste: Lightly season the tomato and pickle layers with a pinch of kosher salt and a generous grind of freshly cracked black pepper. This simple seasoning enhances the natural flavors of the fresh produce.
- Second Lettuce Layer: Place the second romaine lettuce leaf on top of the seasoned tomato slices. This provides another layer of freshness and helps to contain the fillings.
- Second Mayo Layer: Spread another generous layer of Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise onto the second piece of toasted bread. This ensures a balanced flavor and creamy texture throughout the entire sandwich.
- Assemble and Enjoy: Carefully place the second slice of mayo-coated bread on top of the stacked ingredients. Gently press the sandwich together to compact the layers. For easy eating and that classic deli presentation, slice the sandwich in half, either diagonally or straight down the middle. Serve immediately and savor every iconic bite!
Step-by-Step Visual Guide
Chef Jenn’s Expert Tips for the Best Sandwich
Even the simplest recipes benefit from a few insider tips. Here are Chef Jenn’s recommendations to ensure your “What She’s Having” sandwich is nothing short of perfection:
- Prioritize Quality Rye Bread: The foundation of this sandwich is the bread. Using a high-quality, fresh light rye bread truly makes all the difference in both flavor and texture. It offers that authentic deli taste and provides the necessary structure to hold all the delicious fillings without falling apart. Seek out a local bakery for the best results.
- Achieve the Perfect Toast: Don’t underestimate the toast. You want the bread to be crispy enough to provide a satisfying crunch and structural integrity but not so hard that it’s difficult to bite through. A medium-golden brown is usually ideal, ensuring a warm, inviting aroma and texture.
- Master Thin Tomato Slices: Beefsteak tomatoes are juicy, which is great, but thick slices can make the sandwich wet and unbalanced. Practice thinly slicing your tomato, aiming for paper-thin rounds. This ensures the tomato’s freshness enhances the sandwich without overpowering it or causing sogginess.
- Experiment with Mayo for a Kick: While Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise is traditional and recommended for its classic flavor, don’t be afraid to experiment. For those who enjoy a little extra zing, try Hellmann’s Chipotle Mayonnaise. Its smoky, spicy kick can add an exciting new dimension to this classic recipe, making it a gourmet sandwich with a twist.
- Chill Your Ingredients: For the freshest taste and texture, ensure all your refrigerated ingredients (turkey, cheese, pickles, mayo) are nicely chilled before assembly. This keeps the sandwich refreshing and crisp.
- Layer with Care: The order of layering isn’t just for aesthetics; it plays a role in the sandwich’s integrity and flavor distribution. Placing lettuce directly on mayo helps create a barrier, while layering denser ingredients towards the bottom provides a stable base.
- Season Every Layer: Don’t just rely on the overall seasoning. A light sprinkle of salt and pepper on the tomato and pickle layers specifically will enhance their individual flavors, contributing to a more complex and satisfying taste profile for the entire sandwich.
Recommended Pairings for Your Deli Delight
Make It A Meal: Perfect Sides and Drinks
To truly elevate your “What She’s Having” sandwich into a complete and satisfying dining experience, consider pairing it with some classic accompaniments. The right side dish and beverage can complement the sandwich’s flavors and enhance your meal:
- Classic Deli Sides: For an authentic New York deli vibe, serve your sandwich alongside a steaming bowl of homemade tomato soup – its creamy warmth is the perfect contrast to a fresh sandwich. Alternatively, a crisp, whole dill pickle spear offers a burst of tangy refreshment that cleanses the palate. A handful of crunchy kettle chips adds a satisfying salty crunch that everyone loves.
- Lighter Options: If you’re aiming for a lighter, fresher meal, pair the sandwich with a simple mixed green salad. A vibrant lemon vinaigrette would highlight the fresh vegetables in the sandwich and provide a zesty counterpoint. Consider adding some cucumber or bell pepper to the salad for extra crunch.
- Beverage Pairings: For an old-school diner experience, nothing beats a tall, frosty glass of iced tea, ideally unsweetened to balance the richness of the sandwich. Alternatively, for a truly indulgent treat, a thick, creamy vanilla milkshake or a chocolate malt will transport you back to classic American diners, offering a delightful sweet finish to your savory meal.
- Heartier Sides: If you’re extra hungry, a small portion of creamy coleslaw or potato salad would also make an excellent companion, adding another layer of texture and traditional deli flavor.
Storage and Meal Prep Tips
The “What She’s Having” sandwich is undeniably at its best when enjoyed freshly made, allowing the toasted bread to remain crisp and the ingredients to shine at their peak. However, with a little planning, you can still enjoy this iconic sandwich with minimal fuss even when short on time:
- Best Fresh: The ultimate experience comes from assembling and eating the sandwich immediately after toasting the bread. This preserves the perfect contrast between crisp bread and fresh, cool fillings.
- Prep Ahead Strategy: If you need to prepare components in advance, keep all your ingredients separate. Slice the turkey, cheese, tomatoes, and pickles and store them in individual airtight containers in the refrigerator. Wash and dry the lettuce and store it separately. When ready to eat, simply toast your bread and assemble the sandwich. This method ensures maximum freshness and prevents sogginess.
- Storing Leftovers (Short Term): If you find yourself with half a sandwich or need to store an assembled one for a very short period, wrap it tightly in parchment paper (to prevent excess moisture) and then in plastic wrap. Refrigerate for no more than 12 hours. The bread may lose some of its crispness, and the tomato might release a little moisture, but it will still be enjoyable.
- Avoid Freezing: Sandwiches with fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomato, and particularly mayonnaise, do not freeze well. Freezing will ruin the texture of the produce and cause the mayo to separate, resulting in a very unappetizing meal. This is a fresh sandwich meant to be enjoyed without freezing.
- Packing for Lunch: For a packed lunch, consider bringing the pre-prepped ingredients separately and assembling the sandwich right before you eat. Pack the toasted bread (cooled completely) in a separate container from the fillings. This is the best way to maintain quality if you can’t assemble it fresh.
The Enduring Legacy of “What She’s Having”
The “What She’s Having” sandwich isn’t just a recipe; it’s a testament to how food can become deeply intertwined with popular culture and personal memories. Originating from one of the most quotable scenes in romantic comedy history, this simple turkey and Swiss on rye has transcended its cinematic roots to become a real-life culinary icon. The recent Hellmann’s Super Bowl ad served as a delightful reminder of its enduring appeal, showcasing how a well-made, classic sandwich, featuring familiar flavors and quality ingredients, can evoke immense satisfaction and joy. It’s a reminder that sometimes, the simplest pleasures are the most profound. Whether you’re recreating a nostalgic moment or simply seeking an exceptionally tasty and easy meal, this sandwich promises to deliver a genuinely memorable experience that might just make you exclaim, “I’ll have what she’s having!”
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What She’s Having Sandwich
Course
Dinner, Lunch, Snack
Cuisine
American, Deli
Prep Time
10 minutes
Total Time
10 minutes
Servings
1
sandwich
Author
Chef Jenn
Ingredients
-
2
slices
unseeded light rye bread -
2
slices
Alpine Swiss cheese -
1
large
beefsteak tomato
thinly sliced -
2
leaves
romaine or leaf lettuce -
1
half-sour dill pickle
sliced lengthwise -
5
ounces
deli turkey
good quality, sliced not too thin -
Kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper
to taste -
2
tablespoons
Hellmann’s® Real Mayonnaise
or Hellmann’s Chipotle Mayonnaise for a spicy kick
Instructions
- Toast the Bread: Toast two slices of light rye bread until they are beautifully golden brown and crisp, providing a sturdy yet delicious foundation for your sandwich.
- Spread First Layer of Mayonnaise: On one slice of the toasted bread, generously squeeze and spread Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise, ensuring an even coating from edge to edge.
- Add Lettuce: Place one whole, crisp leaf of romaine or leaf lettuce on top of the mayo-coated bread. This acts as a protective and refreshing layer.
- Layer the Turkey: Evenly arrange the thinly sliced deli turkey over the lettuce. Fan the slices slightly for better coverage and visual appeal.
- Place Swiss Cheese: Add the slices of Alpine Swiss cheese directly on top of the turkey, ready to meld with the other flavors.
- Arrange Pickles: Slice the half-sour dill pickle lengthwise into thin strips and strategically arrange them over the cheese, ensuring every bite gets that essential tangy crunch.
- Layer Tomato: Thinly slice the beefsteak tomato into paper-thin rounds and layer them carefully over the pickle slices.
- Season: Season the tomato and pickle layers lightly with kosher salt and freshly cracked black pepper to enhance their fresh flavors.
- Add Second Lettuce Layer: Place the second romaine lettuce leaf on top of the seasoned tomato slices to complete the filling stack.
- Spread Second Layer of Mayonnaise: Spread another generous layer of Hellmann’s Real Mayonnaise onto the second piece of toasted bread.
- Assemble and Serve: Carefully press the two halves of the sandwich together. For ease of eating and classic presentation, slice the sandwich in half, either diagonally or straight, and enjoy your iconic creation immediately!
Notes from Chef Jenn
- Choose Quality Bread: Use high-quality light rye bread—it truly makes all the difference in flavor and texture, providing the authentic deli experience this sandwich is known for.
- Perfect Toast: Make sure to toast the bread just right—crispy enough to hold up to the generous fillings but not so hard that it’s difficult to bite into. A golden-brown color is ideal.
- Thinly Slice Tomatoes: Thinly slice the beefsteak tomato into paper-thin rounds so it doesn’t overpower the sandwich or make it soggy. This ensures balanced moisture and flavor.
- Spice It Up: For those who love a bit of heat, try using Hellmann’s Chipotle Mayonnaise instead of the regular real mayonnaise for an exciting spicy kick!
- Half-Sour Pickles are Key: Don’t substitute the half-sour dill pickle if you can help it. Its unique tang and crunch are fundamental to the authentic taste of this sandwich.
- Serve Immediately: For the best texture and flavor, assemble and serve this sandwich right away. The crispness of the toasted bread and the freshness of the ingredients are at their peak.
Nutrition Information
Serving:
1
sandwich
A Note on Nutritional Information
Nutritional information for this recipe is provided as a courtesy and is calculated based on available online ingredient information. It is only an approximate value. The accuracy of the nutritional information for any recipe on this site cannot be guaranteed, as values can vary greatly depending on specific brands, preparation methods, and ingredient portions used.