The Best Cold Pastrami Sandwich Recipe

There’s something nostalgic and comforting about biting into a cold pastrami sandwich. It takes you straight to a cozy corner deli, where the bread is always fresh, the meat is piled high, and the flavors are bold but beautifully balanced. The good news?

You don’t need to live in NYC or hit up your favorite sandwich shop to enjoy it. This cold pastrami sandwich recipe is super easy to put together and just as delicious as the ones from your go-to deli. Perfect for lunchboxes, casual dinners, or when you just want to treat yourself to a no-fuss, flavor-packed bite.

Cold Pastrami Sandwich Recipe

Recipe by Chef Sadat KhizarCourse: Lunch / SandwichCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

1

servings

Prep time

5

minutes

Cooking timeminutes

Calories

450

kcal

Cold Pastrami Sandwich Recipe Details are as follows.

Ingredients

• 2 slices of rye bread (or your preferred sandwich bread)

• 4–6 slices of deli pastrami

• 1–2 slices of Swiss cheese

• 1 tablespoon yellow mustard

• 2–3 slices of dill pickle

Directions

• Place the two slices of rye bread on a clean surface or plate.
• Evenly spread yellow or deli mustard on one or both slices of bread, depending on your taste.
• Place the Swiss cheese slice(s) on one slice of the bread.
• Pile on the cold pastrami slices over the cheese.
• Lay dill pickle slices over the pastrami for that classic crunch and tang.
• Top with the second slice of bread.
• Slice in half if preferred, and serve cold with chips or a pickle spear on the side.

Recipe Video

Serving Suggestions for Cold Pastrami Sandwich

Want to take your sandwich to the next level? Here are some tasty pairings and presentation ideas:

• Classic Combo: Serve with a side of dill pickles and kettle chips for that authentic deli experience.
• Picnic Ready: Wrap it in parchment and pair it with potato salad and iced tea for an outdoor-friendly meal.
• Soup and Sandwich: Pair with a warm bowl of tomato or matzo ball soup for a comforting, satisfying lunch.
• Make It a Platter: Slice the sandwich in halves or quarters and serve on a platter with olives, coleslaw, and mustard dips for a party-friendly spread.

2 class="wp-block-heading">Saving Suggestions

Got leftovers or want to meal prep ahead of time? Here’s how to do it right:

• Fridge: Store assembled (but not yet dressed) sandwiches in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Add mustard or dressing right before eating to avoid sogginess.
• Make-Ahead Tip: Keep all ingredients separate and assemble just before eating for the freshest flavor and best texture.
• Freezer? Not so much: Because of the bread and veggies, freezing isn’t ideal—stick to fresh for this one.

FAQs ( Cold Pastrami Sandwich )

Q: What kind of bread is best for a cold pastrami sandwich?
A: Rye bread is the traditional go-to, but sourdough, ciabatta, or a crusty baguette also work great depending on your taste.

>Q: Do I need to heat the pastrami?
A: Not at all! This recipe is all about that cold, deli-style sandwich experience. But if you prefer a warm version, a quick steam or microwave works.

Q: What cheese goes well with pastrami?
A: Swiss is the classic pairing, but provolone or even pepper jack can add a fun twist.

Q: Can I add veggies?
A: Definitely! Lettuce, tomatoes, red onion, and pickles all add crunch and freshness. Don’t forget the mustard or Russian dressing for that tangy kick.

>Q: Is pastrami the same as corned beef?
A: Not quite. Both come from beef brisket, but pastrami is typically smoked and seasoned with a peppery spice blend, while corned beef is cured with a salty brine. They have different flavors, but both are delicious!