Butcher Block recently launched our deli panini menu — a selection of sandwiches made from bakery-fresh bread, a Stonewall Kitchen condiment, and slices of deli meat and cheese.

Here’s a little bit of culinary history for you. Sandwiches were invented over 2,000 years ago when Hillel, a Jewish sage, put meat between slices of matzah (Jewish flatbread). The portable meal steadily gained popularity — 18th-century Europeans added fruit and condiments to the slices of meat and cheese in-between bread. During the 19th century, factory workers across North America and Europe needing quick, filling lunches allowed sandwiches to shoot to the top of preferred lunchbox options. Why? They are convenient, comforting, filling, versatile, and perfect to eat on the go.

Also, when the weather is as hot as it is now, sandwiches make a great summer dinner. Just add a leafy green salad, fries, chips, cole slaw, gazpacho, or potato salad, and you’ll have a complete meal.

With so many combinations, we’ve taken the guesswork out of how to craft the ideal sandwich. Choose the provolone with Stonewall Kitchen Apple Cranberry Chutney; the pastrami and mozzarella with Stonewall Kitchen Buttermilk Cracked Peppercorn Dressing; the ham and provolone with Stonewall Kitchen Maine Maple Champagne Mustard; the roast beef and mozzarella with Stonewall Kitchen Buttermilk Cracked Peppercorn Dressing. Or have them all! Also, feel free to substitute provolone for mozzarella and vice versa.