Ham And Swiss On Rye With Green Genie Sandwich Spread

For sandwiches

2 slices rye bread

2 slices of Swiss cheese

2 slices ham

1 batch of Green Genie Sandwich Spread (recipe below)

For the Green Genie Sandwich Spread

1 can water-packed artichoke hearts, rinsed and drained

1/3 cup roasted pistachios or other favorite nut

3 cloves of garlic

1 cup packed curly parsley, washed and dried

Zest and juice of a large lemon

1/3 cup best-quality extra-virgin olive oil

½ teaspoon fine-grain sea salt or more to taste

White pepper to taste

For the spread: Put all ingredients in a blender or a food processor fitted with the "S'' blade. Process until smooth and pureed. Depending on your blender, you may need to use a spoon to move the ingredients as you process them. Makes about 1 ¼ cups (10 servings) Place in a nonreactive container until ready to use. Will keep in refrigerator for up to one week.

To assemble the sandwich: Spread each slice of bread with the Green Genie Spread. Layer the ham and the cheese and cut sandwich in half. Enjoy at room temperature.

Serves 2

Ham & Swiss on rye:

Nutrition information per serving: 278 calories; 89 calories from fat; 10 g fat (5 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 30 mg cholesterol; 784 mg sodium; 32 g carbohydrate; 4 g fiber; 4 g sugar; 15 g protein.

Green Genie Spread:

Nutrition information per serving: 112 calories; 85 calories from fat; 9 g fat (1 g saturated; 0 g trans fats); 0 mg cholesterol; 174 mg sodium; 6 g carbohydrate; 2 g fiber; 1 g sugar; 2 g protein.