Heart Healthy Balsamic Portobello Sandwich

(5.0)
By Judy Capodanno
Updated 10/28/2025
Dietitian Reviewed: Jane Schwartz, RDN, CLT
Approved for These Diets:
Heart Healthy | Diabetic | Vegetarian
Heart Healthy Balsamic Portobello Sandwich
Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

For a satisfying and heart-healthy meal that's savory and simple, these Balsamic Portobello Sandwiches are the perfect answer. Marinated in rich balsamic vinegar and baked until tender, these mushroom "burgers" are a delicious and easy alternative to meat. Served on a multigrain roll with roasted red peppers and fresh spinach, it's a perfect lunch or dinner.

Total Time
30 minutes
Servings
2
Calories
220

What Makes These Heart Healthy Balsamic Portobello Sandwiches Healthy

These sandwiches utilize portobello mushrooms as a meaty, satisfying substitute for red meat, which helps lower saturated fat intake. The recipe relies on heart-smart olive oil for healthy monounsaturated fats and is packed with fresh vegetables like spinach and roasted red peppers for added fiber and vitamins.

Key Health Highlights

  • Low in Sodium: With just 200 mg of sodium per serving, this sandwich is a great choice for a sodium-conscious diet.
  • Excellent Source of Fiber: Each sandwich provides 9 grams of dietary fiber, promoting digestive health and satiety.
  • Lean Protein: Offers 15 grams of protein to help keep you full and support muscle health.
  • Calorie Conscious: A complete and satisfying meal for only 220 calories.
  • Minimal Saturated Fat: Contains just 4 grams of saturated fat, aligning with heart-healthy guidelines.
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FAQs About Heart Healthy Balsamic Portobello Sandwiches

Yes! To make it vegan, simply use a dairy-free provolone cheese substitute or omit the cheese altogether. The rest of the ingredients are plant-based.

Absolutely. Marinate the mushrooms as directed, then grill over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side, until mushrooms are tender and grill marks appear. This adds a delicious smoky flavor.

It's best to wipe portobello mushrooms clean with a damp paper towel rather than rinsing them, as they can become waterlogged. Gently remove the gills from the underside with a spoon if you prefer a milder taste.

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Ingredients

Recipe yields 2 servings

Directions

  1. Step 1

    Lightly coat a baking pan with nonstick cooking spray. Arrange mushroom caps and red onion slices on baking pan.

  2. Step 2

    Drizzle balsamic vinegar and oil over tops of mushrooms. Season mushrooms with black pepper. Bake for 20 minutes.

  3. Step 3

    Top mushroom caps with cheese and bake for 2 to 3 minutes more, or until cheese is melted.

  4. Step 4

    With a spatula, transfer each mushroom cap to the bottom half of a roll. Top each mushroom with red onion, roasted pepper, spinach and tomato, if using.

Nutrition Facts

Serving Size:
1 sandwich

220
Calories
9
g
Fat
15
mg
Cholesterol
200
mg
Sodium
30
g
Carbs
4
g
Sat. Fat
9
g
Fiber
15
g
Protein

Serving & Storage Tips

  • Serving: These mushroom burgers are best served immediately while hot, right after the cheese has melted.
  • Pairing Ideas: They pair wonderfully with a side of air-fried sweet potato fries, a simple green salad, or a cup of tomato soup.
  • Storage: Store leftover cooked mushrooms in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheating: For best results, reheat the mushroom caps in an oven or air fryer at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

Ingredient Substitutions

Swap the provolone for your favorite dairy-free cheese slice or simply omit it.

For a lower-carb meal, use whole wheat buns, sturdy lettuce wraps, or serve the mushroom cap over a salad.

Feel free to add other toppings like fresh arugula, sliced avocado, or caramelized onions for extra flavor.

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