20 Forgotten Lunches From The 1970s We Want Back!
#Lunch #1970s #forgotten #yesteryear #nostalgia
Curious which once-popular lunches from the 1970s have fallen out of favor? Pull up a chair for 20 delicious meals that used to brighten up our midday breaks. Let’s chow down and chew over these nostalgic bites—bon appétit!
📺 Watch the entire video for more information!
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Chapters:
0:00 Introduction
0:13 Tuna Melt on Rye
1:13 Fish Stick Sandwiches
2:08 Pizza Burgers
3:00 Turkey and Cranberry Sandwiches
3:48 Fried Bologna and Cheese Sandwiches
4:46 Curried Sardine Salad Sandwiches
5:46 Olive Loaf Sandwiches
6:41 Baloney Boats
7:27 Peanut Butter and Bacon Sandwiches
8:17 Spam and Pineapple Sandwiches
9:22 Jiffy Ground Beef Cornbread Casserole
10:15 Ravioli Sandwiches
11:03 Peanut Butter and Pickle Sandwiches
11:49 Tuna Jell-O Salad
12:42 Rice Pudding Lunch Bowl
13:33 Chili Cheese Dog Casserole
14:14 Egg Foo Young Sandwiches
15:03 Cheese soufflé
15:58 Sloppy Joe Casserole
16:46 Macaroni and Cheese Loaf Sandwich
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curious which once popular lunches from the 1970s have fallen out of favor pull up a chair for 20 delicious meals that used to brighten up our midday breaks let’s Chow Down and chew over these nostalgic bites Bon Appetit starting with a masterpiece of lunchtime tradition the tuna melt on rye holds a storied spot in American Cuisine this beloved sandwich Stacks a hearty tuna salad crafted from a blend of canned tuna creamy mayonnaise and a select mix of seasonings beneath a slice of melting cheese all nestled between two slices of rye bread and grilled to crispy golden Perfection it’s Origins Trace back to the 1950s in Charleston South Carolina where it was born from a happy accident involving a chef and a mishap with tuna salad landing on a grilling cheese sandwich this serendipitous event led to the tuna melts rapid rise to fame making it a favorite across diners and cafes throughout the nation the construction is simple tuna salad and cheese are layered on rye bread which is then grilled until the bread crisps beautifully and the cheese turns deliciously gooey a testament to how the best culinary Creations can stem from the most unexpected incidents fish stick sandwiches Rose to Fame in the 1950s a golden era for convenience Foods when Gorton of Gloucester in Massachusetts introduced these breaded Delights they were one of the first frozen foods to be promoted during the television advertising boom of the 1950s which great influenced American eating habits quick to prepare and Mild in flavor they became a go-to protein source that fit perfectly between slices of bread with a dollop of tartar sauce or ketchup to make them you just need to bake or fry the fish sticks until they’re crispy then sandwich them with your choice of condiments their popularity reflects a broader post-war shift towards processed foods that offered ease and quick preparation for growing families and bustling households these sandwiches were particularly favored in school cafeterias providing a speedy and efficient way to nourish children with a comforting crunchy meal Pizza Burgers burst onto the American culinary scene in the 1950s offering a delightful mashup that appealed to anyone with a love for hamburgers and pizza this novel creation typically consists of a hamburger patty either grilled or fried smothered with marinara sauce sprinkled with mozzarella cheese and then broiled until the cheese bubbles with joy Bo all served on a traditional hamburger bun some versions go further adding toppings like pepperoni or green peppers to more closely mimic a pizza or substituting the beef patty with spicy Italian sausage for an added kick by the 1960s Pizza Burgers had carved out their Niche especially in school cafeterias and fast food restaurants offering a tasty Twist on well-loved Classics and capturing the era’s zest for new and exciting food experiences turkey and cranberry sandwiches cleverly repurpose the quintessential Thanksgiving leftovers into an enticing sandwich that marries the Savory flavor of turkey with the sweet Tang of cranberry sauce this tasty combination Rose to popularity in mid 20th century America showcasing an inventive way to transform holiday leftovers into delightful new meals the sandwich is simply made by stacking slices of turkey and cranberry sauce often accompanied by stuffing between two pieces of bread this culinary creation not only makes excellent use of leftover turkey but also captures the festive essence of Thanksgiving melding juicy savory turkey slices with the sharp sweetness of cranberry sauce in a sandwich that embodies the holiday spirit the fried bolognia and cheese sandwich is a classic Testament to the straightforward comforting nature of traditional American Cuisine in the Southern United States this sandwich is sometimes affectionate called a redneck steak highlighting its role as a staple among workingclass families this unpretentious sandwich comprises slices of bolognia fried until the edges curl paired with melting cheese and enclosed between two slices of bread then grilled or toasted its roots can be traced back to the early 20th century when bolognia was a popular and economical meat Choice quickly becoming a favored lunch option in the Midwest and Southern us typically found in diners and local eateries this sandwich won over many with its uncomplicated yet satisfying blend of crispy Savory bolognia and creamy melted cheese encapsulated in warm toasty bread a simple yet fulfilling dish loved for its comforting flavors curried sardine salad sandwiches blend the robust pungent flavors of sardines with the Exotic spicy warmth of curry powder producing a sandwich that’s anything but ordinary these culinary lights originated in mid 20th century America when canned sardines were an economical choice in the pantry especially in the aftermath of World War II this particular recipe mixes mashed sardines with curry powder creamy mayonnaise a splash of lemon juice and crisp chopped celery creating a spread that’s rich in both flavor and texture spread generously on bread this salad can be adorned with fresh lettuce or cucumber slices adding a crunch that contrasts beautifully with the creamy filling in England it’s common to find variations including chopped apples or raisins adding a sweet note while American adaptations might toss in hardboiled eggs or Capers enhancing the flavor profile further olive loaf sandwiches merge the meaty Taste of bolognia with the Tangy Zing of green olives creating a distinctive and palatable sandwich Choice originating from the mid 20th century American lunch scene olive loaf a cold cut Laden with green olives ground pork and beef became a popular choice for its flavor and convenience the sandwich itself typically includes slices of this unique loaf paired with creamy mayonnaise or Tangy mustard crisp lettuce and occasionally a slice of cheese all sandwiched between two slices of fresh bread simple to assemble and delicious to eat this sandwich became a favorite for picnics and packed lunches often accompanied by potato chips or pickles olive loaf sandwiches showcase how processed meats and cold cuts played a pivotal role in American lunch culture offering quick flavorful and varied meal options for families on the go take a bite into the past with baln boats a fun and inventive lunchtime creation from mid 20th century America these unique creations start with slices of bolognia heated and shaped into Whimsical boatlike forms then filled with a hearty helping of creamy mashed potatoes gooey melted cheese or savory baked beans School cafeterias were particularly fond of serving these as a fun kid-friendly option the versatility of baln boats is notable with some versions including macaroni and cheese or even chili for those seeking something more substantial they emerged as a clever way to utilize common Pantry Staples creatively providing a budget friendly meal solution during times when stretching the grocery budget was necessary peanut butter and bacon sandwiches represent a bold Fusion of flavors combining the smooth slightly Sweet Taste of peanut butter with the crispy Savory bite of bacon this combination was part of a broader mid-century trend of experimenting with sweet and savory pairings which included other famous concoctions like chicken and waffles popular in mid 20th century America this sandwich typically involves a generous spread of peanut butter on toasted bread topped with strips of crunchy bacon the king of rock and roll Elvis Presley was known to enjoy this sandwich with added slices of banana introducing a sweet layer to the Salty Sweet Mix this quirky combination was emblematic of a period when Americans were open to experimenting with diverse and unexpected flavor pairings creating memorable and satisfying meals spam and pineapple sandwiches capture a uniquely American taste for sweet and savory combinations that soared in popularity during World War II introduced to the American Military and 1937 spam became a staple in many households the recipe for spam and pineapple sandwiches represents the culinary influence of Hawaii on the mainland which intensified after Hawaii became a state in 1959 the sandwich features crispy slices of fried spam paired with sweet slightly charred pineapple rings nestled between slices of toasted bread this blend of salty meat with the caramelized sweetness of pineapple provides provides a delightful contrast in flavors optionally dressed with mayonnaise or a slice of cheese these sandwiches reflect a significant Hawaiian influence on Mainland American Cuisine particularly during the 1950s when Hawaiian culture gained widespread appeal the result is a dish that marries diverse culinary traditions in a uniquely satisfying Way taste the innovation in every hearty bite of Jiffy ground beef cornbread casserole a Triumph of American Home Cooking rising to popularity in the mid 20th century this casserole marries seasoned ground beef with the Simplicity of Jiffy cornbread mix a product that became a staple in American kitchens following its introduction in the 1930s by the Chelsea Milling Company the preparation involves Browning ground beef with onions garlic and a medley of spices then layering it in a baking dish topping it with a batter made from the iconic cornbread mix once baked the casserole presents a delightful contrast of flavors and textures with golden cornbread capping a juicy flavorful beef base it became a favored choice for an easy and satisfying meal perfectly blending ease of preparation with hearty flavors ravioli sandwiches are an unconventional playful lunch option that Taps into the Beloved flavors of Italian cuisine while embracing the convenience of a sandwich these emerged likely in response to the popularity of canned ravioli introduced by Chef board in the 1930s the sandwich involves placing canned ravioli filled with meat or cheese between slices of bread which can be toasted or grilled to meld the flavors and add a textural contrast to the soft ravioli filling known in some places as Italian Sloppy Joe’s or ravioli hero these sandwiches gained a following among budget conscious college students and anyone appreciating the melding of comforting Italian flavors with the easy handheld format of a sandwich peanut butter and pickle sandwiches present a surprising mix of flavors that demonstrates The Adventurous side of American Sandwich making originating in the mid 20th century this combination pairs the creamy slightly Sweet Taste of peanut butter with the sharp crunchy Tang of pickles often referred to as the Southern Comfort sandwich in the Southern United States it features a liberal spread of peanut butter on bread with layers of thinly sliced pickles this sandwich can be enjoyed open-faced or as a standard sandwich and it pairs wonderfully with a cold glass of milk the resulting meal is a bold blend of sweet salty and tangy flavors offering a taste experience that’s both unexpected and satisfying tuna Jell-O salad is a striking example of mid 20th century American culinary creativity combining seemingly incongruous ingredients s like canned tuna and lime flavored gelatin this dish first emerged in the 1950s a time when gelatin salads were all the rage the process involves dissolving lime Jell-O in hot water and mixing it with canned tuna finely chopped celery pimento and hardboiled eggs then letting it set until firm served on a bed of lettuce and often garnished with dollops of mayonnaise or whipped cream this salad Blends Savory and sweet in a mold that is as eye-catching as it is unique often featured as the centerpiece at lunch or as a dinner entree its unique combination of ingredients and textures made it a memorable if somewhat unusual dish indulge in the European inspired rice pudding lunch bowl where tradition serves Comfort at your American lunch made from a simple mix of cooked rice milk sugar and a hint of vanilla this dish is cooked slowly until it becomes thick and creamy the rice pudding lunch bowl could be customized with ious toppings such as a dusting of cinnamon a dollop of jam or fresh berries providing versatility and appealing to different tastes once prepared it’s often garnished with a Sprinkle of cinnamon fresh fruit or nuts adding flavor and texture served either warm or cold it was adaptable as a dessert or a light lunch fitting seamlessly into any meal plan its versatility was appreciated in homes where Cooks valued recipes that could be easily adjusted to suit the occasion making rice pudding a reliable and satisfying Choice chili cheese dog casserole is a hearty indulgent dish that embodies the essence of comfort food merging hot dogs chili and cheese in a bake that’s rich in flavor assembled with slic of hot dogs and canned chili spread over a layer of dough either made from scratch or using convenient crescent rolls and topped with a generous amount of shredded cheese this casserole is baked until the cheese is bubbly and the face is golden brown this dish became a favorite for casual family dinners and informal Gatherings offering a spicy Savory and gooey eating experience that Drew rave reviews from diners looking for satisfying easy toake meals experience The Culinary crossover of egg fu young sandwiches where American and Chinese traditions meet in a mid 20th century flavor explosion this unique sandwich format includes an egg fu young Patty made with beaten eggs mixed with vegetables and often additional proteins like meat or seafood nestled on bread or a bun sometimes smothered with a rich savory sauce prepared by frying the Patty until golden and serving it on toasted bread this sandwich offered a flavorful fulfilling meal with fillings typically including bean sprouts mushrooms and onions and options for shrimp or pork it provided a satisfying blend of textures and tastes becoming a favored lunch or dinner Choice served with a side salad or light soup cheese sule a sophisticated culinary delight found prominence in 1970s dining rooms originating in France the sule’s name derives from the French verb sule meaning to Puff the first recorded recipe for sule appeared in vinon La Chappelle’s 1738 culinary book a cheese sule is made with a base of bashal sauce into which grated cheese traditionally rier or Conte is folded egg yolks are then Incorporated followed by stiffly beaten egg whites which provide the sule its characteristic Airy texture the mixture is poured into a buttered and breadcrumb dusted sule dish and baked until it puffs up and turns golden brown the delicate balance of flavors and textures combined with its dramatic rise makes cheese sule a culinary Masterpiece that showcases the chef’s skill and precision sloppy joke casserole a hearty American dish was a staple in 1970s family meals the original sloppy joe a sandwich filled with ground beef and a Tangy Tomato Sauce is believed to have been created in the 1930s at a cafe in Sous City Iowa the casserole version incorporates the same ingredients ground beef onions green peppers tomato sauce and Seasonings spread in a baking dish and topped with biscuits or cornbread batter it is then baked until the topping is golden and the filling is bubbly this adaptation offered a familyfriendly on- dish meal that could be prepared in advance making it ideal for busy households the combination of savory beef and a satisfying Golden Crust made it a popular choice for casual family dinners and Gatherings the macaroni and cheese loaf sandwich merges classic comfort food with the convenience of a sandwich popular in mid 20th century America this intriguing dish features slices of macaroni and cheese loaf a processed Deli item that blends pasta and ham encased in a meatloaf likee product layered between bread with mustard or mayonnaise first introduced in the 1950s this loaf became a unique addition to the American Sandwich repertoire often accompanied by chips or pickles on the side this sandwich provided a novel tasty meal solution that appealed to those who cherish the hearty flavors of macaroni cheese but desired the practicality of a sandwich making it a peculiar yet beloved option for lunches do these classic lunches stir up tasty memories if so like this video click subscribe and stay tuned for more Nostalgia trips
24 Comments
What’s a beloved lunch from your 1970s that seems to have disappeared over the years?
Nope. I don't buy it. Tuna melts are totally sold by Subway. Not gonna say they do that sandwich justice, but they sell it.
Heck, I'd say about half of that is still made often enough in Texas, particularly the Cornbread Casserole (with pork sausage, however).
"Liked" it anyway for good presentation.
… and edumacation of the non-Texans who saw this.
I grew up on olive loaf in the early 2000's i was just talking about not finding that everywhere like i used to
Still eat turkey sandwiches whenever I have turkey. And you use Parmesan cheese to dust your soufflé dish, not bread crumbs, and that's according to both Julia Child AND Jacques Pepin.
pizza sandwiches in the sandwich maker (no one else I knew had one of those back then), and this Mac n cheese meal my mom made that had a can of condensed tomato soup and Italian seasonings in it
In Canada, we call redneck steak, Newfie steak
The reason they're forgotten is because every single one is disgusting, and I was raised in the 70's and 80's. We never had any of that crap. lol
Mac n cheese with tuna and peas, yum
Shi-t on a shingle was always cheap.
Those aren't hot dogs; they are American sausages.
Tuna Melts are delicious 😋 My grandma used to make these 😊
Some of these sandwiches are gross
Your dedication in cooking is always worth seeing. Share on khal.
Chef Jean Pierre is the best!
There are a few Chain sandwich shops that do the turkey, stuffing, and cranberry sauce sandwich. Capriotti’s “Bobbie” and Earl of Sandwich “holiday turkey sandwich”
I buy those already cooked packages of bacon and slip it into my PB & J sandwiches. Raspberry or Strawberry jam is best.
Turkey and cranberry is still my fave
Canned tuna and lime jello? Jesus Harry Christ, America, are you okay? 🤢
The egg foo young patty sandwich is a St. Louis thing and it on the menu at every Chinese food restaurant in the area. We call it a St. Paul's Sandwich. No one knows where the name came from.
Peanut butter pickle and mayonnaise with onions are delicious this is from the depression days
Let's not forget the spaghetti sandwich and the lima bean sandwich with mayonnaise and cheese 🧀 what a tasty sandwich 🥪🤤
Why does that tuna jello mold look like the devil’s 🐓&🏀🏀? Also, that looks absolutely disgusting, who would eat that?!
Born in the early 70s. Went to school in the mid and late 70s. Only things I recognize from back then are fried bologna and spam (no pineapple) sandwiches.
Never once was I served sardine sandwiches at home or school. Never had baloney in school either.