This Moroccan Melt won the 2008 vegetarian category and a runner-up prize of $1,000.

The concept of a sandwich seems simple enough, but we’ve eaten enough mediocre lunches to know that a truly tasty sandwich must have just the right ingredients and preparation. For those who have a special recipe that eradicates lunchtime doldrums, enter the Mezzetta Make That Sandwich Recipe Contest for a chance to win $25,000 and a trip for two to California’s Napa Valley. Through Sept. 7 (noon PST), sandwich makers can submit recipes — which must contain at least two Mezzetta products — in one of three categories: hot, cold and vegetarian. The grand prize winner will be selected from the best in each category, while the runners-up receive $1,000 each.

This is Mezzetta’s second year sponsoring the contest. The company produces specialty peppers and olives, deli-sliced peppers and olive oil, as well as Napa Valley Bistro pasta sauces and Kona Coast teriyaki and barbecue sauces. Sandwiches will be judged on creative use of ingredients, taste, ease of preparation and visual appeal. For inspiration, check out last year’s winners — the Spanish-Style Grilled Cheese Sandwich with Smoky Paprika Roasted Pepper & Tomato Topping (grand prize winner), the Salmon and Arugula Tailgater (cold) and La Maison de Mezzetta Moroccan Melts with Minted Harissa Mayonnaise (vegetarian). Winners will be notified by Sept. 14. The grand-prize winner will receive round-trip airfare for two to Napa Valley and accommodations for three nights, as well as $100 in American Express gift checks toward car rental expense, and $400 worth of gift checks for meals and miscellaneous expenses.

We think that any sandwich that earns $25,000 and a getaway sounds great. What do you think is the secret to an exceptional sandwich?

Tags: African cuisine, American cuisine, American Express Company, California, car rental expense, Cheese sandwich, Cooking, Cuisine, Food and drink, Harissa, Hospitality/Recreation, Kona Coast, Mediterranean cuisine, Napa Valley, olive oil, sandwiches, Sauce, Teriyaki, Tunisian cuisine, USD