Poolside Rachael Sandwiches

One of my all-time favorite sandwiches is a Reuben. And if you’re a Reuben lover, you’ve probably met its cousin, the Rachael. Turkey instead of corned beef, coleslaw instead of sauerkraut, and all the same deli-counter magic.

But here’s what I realized… I actually like a Rachael even better cold. Which makes it the perfect pool, beach, or boat-day sandwich.

We’re using King’s Hawaiian rolls because they are simply the superior summer sandwich roll and you can pack everything right back into the bag for easy transport.

This version is loaded with turkey, cheese, crunchy homemade slaw, and my homemade Thousand Island dressing. It’s a little tangier and less sweet than store-bought versions, but still delivers all that classic flavor. Bonus: the dressing is incredible on burgers all summer long.

Save this one for your next pool day, beach picnic, or last-minute summer gathering. ☀️🥪

HOMEMADE THOUSAND ISLAND DRESSING

1 cup mayonnaise

3 tablespoons ketchup

½ cup dill relish

½ cup finely diced onion

2 teaspoons white wine vinegar

½ teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

½ tablespoon lemon juice

Combine all ingredients in a bowl or mason jar and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

SIMPLE SLAW

1 (9-ounce) bag coleslaw mix

1 teaspoon kosher salt

¼ cup mayonnaise

2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar

½ teaspoon celery salt

½ teaspoon garlic powder

Pinch of sugar

¼ teaspoon black pepper

Add coleslaw mix to a large bowl and massage with the kosher salt for about 1 minute. In a separate bowl, whisk together the remaining ingredients. Toss with the cabbage and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

POOLSIDE RACHAEL SAMMIES

1 package King’s Hawaiian rolls

½ pound thinly sliced turkey

6 slices Swiss or white cheddar cheese

Prepared slaw

Prepared Thousand Island dressing

Slice the rolls in half horizontally. Spread Thousand Island dressing on both sides. Layer turkey, cheese, and slaw over the bottom half of the rolls. Replace the top half, cut into individual sandwiches, and serve.