Sandwiches that are a slice above

Makes: 4-6 servings

Halloumi is a firm, salty, grillable cheese originally from Cypress and popular in the Middle East. Za’atar, a herb and spice mixture pairs perfectly with it. Both are available in large, well-stocked grocery stores and Middle Eastern grocery stores.

4 tbsp (60 mL) extra-virgin olive oil 2 tsp (10 mL) apple cider vinegar

1 clove garlic, minced

1 tbsp (15 mL) za’atar

1/2 pint (236 mL) cherry tomatoes, cut in half

2 cups (500 mL) cabbage, chopped into 1/2-inch (1.25 cm) pieces

1/2 cup (125 mL) coarsely chopped parsley

1/2 cup (125 mL) coarsely chopped mint leaves 1/4 cup (60 mL) diced red onion sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

5 1/2 oz (150 g) halloumi cheese, thinly sliced

1 French loaf, approximately 17 oz (500 g)

1. In a large bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, garlic and za’atar. Add tomatoes, cabbage, parsley, mint and onion; stir gently to coat. Adjust the seasoning. Cut the bread in half lengthwise; remove most of the bread from the inside top and bottom.

2. Place half of the vegetable mixture in the bottom half of the bread. Lay halloumi evenly over the vegetables. Spread remaining vegetables and juice evenly over cheese. Cover with the top half of the bread. Wrap snugly in plastic wrap. Weight down with a heavy pan and refrigerate for at least 2 hours and up to overnight.