A classic dish in the Jewish deli cuisine, Pastrami is a type of cured meat made from beef brisket. The Reuben Sandwich is a popular American sandwich made with rye bread, corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing. A serving of Pastrami Reuben Sandwich (Small) has a total of 635 calories.

Apart from being delicious, Pastrami and the Reuben Sandwich both offer a variety of nutritional benefits. Pastrami is a good source of protein and iron, while the Reuben Sandwich is a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and calcium.

In this article, we'll explore some ways to make a healthier version of the Pastrami Reuben Sandwich and some tasty side dishes to go with it.

What is Pastrami?

In the simplest terms, Pastrami is a type of cured meat made from beef brisket. The meat is typically seasoned with a blend of spices, then smoked, and steamed to perfection. It originated in the Jewish cuisine and is considered a delicacy in many parts of the world. Pastrami is known for its rich, smoky flavor and is a great source of protein and iron. It can be eaten on its own or in a variety of dishes, including sandwiches, salads, and even nachos.

What is in the Reuben Sandwich?

A Reuben Sandwich typically consists of rye bread, corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing. The sandwich is heated on a grill or in a pan, which makes the cheese melt and the bread crispy. The combination of ingredients in the Reuben Sandwich makes it a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and calcium. However, the high amount of sodium in the corned beef and sauerkraut can be a concern for some people.

How Many Calories Does a Serving Have?

A serving of Pastrami Reuben Sandwich (Small) has a total of 635 calories. This includes 29 grams of fat, 60 grams of carbohydrates, and 32 grams of protein. While this may seem like a high number of calories, it's important to note that not all calories are created equal. The nutritional content of the sandwich makes it a filling and satisfying meal.

What are the Health Benefits?

Pastrami is a good source of protein and iron, which are important nutrients for building and repairing muscles and maintaining cellular health. The Reuben Sandwich is a great source of fiber, vitamin C, and calcium, which are essential for digestive health, immune system function, and strong bones and teeth. In addition, the combination of ingredients in the sandwich makes it a filling and satisfying meal that can help curb hunger and prevent overeating.

What are the Nutritional Contents?

A serving of Pastrami Reuben Sandwich (Small) has a total of 635 calories, 29 grams of fat, 60 grams of carbohydrates, and 32 grams of protein. The sandwich is also a good source of fiber, vitamin C, and calcium. However, the high amount of sodium in the corned beef and sauerkraut can be a concern for some people, especially those with high blood pressure or heart disease.

What are the Ingredients?

The main ingredients in a Pastrami Reuben Sandwich are rye bread, corned beef, Swiss cheese, sauerkraut, and Russian or Thousand Island dressing. The corned beef is often substituted with Pastrami, which offers a smokier flavor and a firmer texture. The bread is typically toasted or grilled, while the cheese is melted on top of the meat. The sauerkraut is usually cooked with vinegar and other spices, and the dressing is made with a blend of mayonnaise, ketchup, and relish.

How Can You Make a Healthier Version?

There are several ways to make a healthier version of the Pastrami Reuben Sandwich. One option is to use whole wheat bread instead of rye bread, which offers more fiber and nutrients. Another option is to use leaner cuts of meat, such as turkey or chicken, instead of corned beef or Pastrami. You can also swap regular cheese for a low-fat or reduced-fat version, and use a lighter dressing, such as Greek yogurt or a vinaigrette. Additionally, you can add more vegetables, such as spinach, tomato, or avocado, to increase the nutrient content of the sandwich.

What Are Some Tasty Side Dishes?

The Pastrami Reuben Sandwich can be served with a variety of tasty side dishes. Some popular options include potato salad, coleslaw, pickles, and chips. For a healthier option, you can serve the sandwich with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or fruit. Another tasty side dish is homemade sweet potato fries. Simply slice a sweet potato into thin wedges, toss them with olive oil and seasoning, and bake at 400°F for 20-25 minutes, or until crispy.

How Can You Modify the Sandwich?

There are many ways to modify the Pastrami Reuben Sandwich to suit your taste and dietary preferences. For example, you can use different types of bread, such as sourdough, ciabatta, or pumpernickel. You can also experiment with different meats, such as turkey or chicken, or use vegetarian options, such as tempeh or tofu. You can add different types of cheese, such as cheddar, provolone, or feta, and switch up the dressing, using mustard, hummus, or pesto.

What are Other Variations of the Reuben Sandwich?

The Reuben Sandwich has numerous variations, depending on the region and the ingredients used. For example, the Rachel Sandwich is a variation of the Reuben made with turkey instead of corned beef or Pastrami. Another popular variation is the Pastrami on Rye Sandwich, which consists of Pastrami, spicy mustard, and a slice of onion on rye bread. The New York-style Pastrami Sandwich is another variation of the Pastrami Reuben Sandwich, which is made with Pastrami, rye bread, and mustard.