Introduction
A classic tuna sandwich is a delightful way to enjoy a simple yet satisfying meal. This recipe combines canned tuna with a medley of crunchy vegetables and zesty condiments, resulting in a creamy filling that packs a flavorful punch. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, these sandwiches are not only easy to prepare, but they’re also customizable based on your preferences. Let’s dive into the ingredients and the preparation process to create a tuna sandwich that will surely impress.
Ingredients
For the Tuna Sandwich Filling:
– 425g (15 oz) canned tuna in oil, drained
– 3/4 cup whole egg mayonnaise or Kewpie
– 3/4 cup finely diced celery (approximately 1 stalk)
– 5 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickle
– 2 tablespoons liquid from the pickle jar
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– 3 tablespoons finely chopped dill (or parsley or basil)
– 1/3 cup finely sliced green onion (about 2 stems)
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For Assembling the Sandwiches:
– 8 pieces butter lettuce (2 per sandwich)
– Salted butter, for spreading
– 8 slices bread or 4 rolls
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 4 sandwiches
Instructions
1. Prepare the Filling: In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, chopped dill pickle, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, chopped dill, sliced green onion, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon, breaking up the tuna until the mixture is fairly smooth. The celery and pickles should be slightly mashed to meld the flavors.
2. Assemble the Sandwiches: Spread butter on each slice of bread. Place two pieces of butter lettuce on half of the bread slices. Divide the tuna filling evenly among these slices. Top with the remaining bread slices to complete the sandwiches.
3. Serve: Enjoy the sandwiches immediately.
Notes
– Tuna in oil provides a richer flavor compared to tuna in water. If only tuna in water is available, the recipe will still work well.
– Whole-egg mayonnaise offers a smoother taste than regular mayonnaise, which can be more vinegary and sweeter. Recommended brands include Hellmann’s, S&W, and Kewpie.
– For pickles, use standard dill pickles rather than sweet varieties.
– Green onion can be substituted with shallots or finely minced red onion.
– Plain white sandwich bread is recommended, but any preferred bread can be used.
– The tuna filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before using, as it may become watery over time.
Nutrition Information (per sandwich)
– Calories: 688
– Carbohydrates: 29g
– Protein: 27g
– Fat: 51g
– Saturated Fat: 14g
– Cholesterol: 60mg
– Sodium: 1154mg
– Potassium: 344mg
– Fiber: 3g
– Sugar: 4g
– Vitamin A: 711IU
– Vitamin C: 3mg
– Calcium: 116mg
– Iron: 3mg
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Filling
In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, chopped dill pickle, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, chopped dill, sliced green onion, and black pepper. Mix thoroughly using a wooden spoon, breaking up the tuna until the mixture is fairly smooth. The celery and pickles should be slightly mashed to meld the flavors.
Assemble the Sandwiches
Spread butter on each slice of bread. Place two pieces of butter lettuce on half of the bread slices. Divide the tuna filling evenly among these slices. Top with the remaining bread slices to complete the sandwiches.
Serve
Enjoy the sandwiches immediately.
Notes
Tuna Type
Tuna in oil provides a richer flavor compared to tuna in water. If only tuna in water is available, the recipe will still work well.
Mayonnaise Choice
Whole-egg mayonnaise offers a smoother taste than regular mayonnaise, which can be more vinegary and sweeter. Recommended brands include Hellmann’s, S&W, and Kewpie.
Pickle Selection
For pickles, use standard dill pickles rather than sweet varieties.
Onion Substitute
Green onion can be substituted with shallots or finely minced red onion.
Bread Options
Plain white sandwich bread is recommended, but any preferred bread can be used.
Storage Information
The tuna filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before using, as it may become watery over time.
Cook techniques
Combining Ingredients
In a bowl, it’s essential to thoroughly combine all the ingredients so that the flavors meld together. Use a wooden spoon to mix and break up the tuna until the mixture is fairly smooth with a slightly mashed consistency for the celery and pickles.
Spreading Butter
Evenly spread salted butter on each slice of bread to enhance flavor and create a moisture barrier, which helps prevent the bread from becoming soggy after adding the filling.
Layering Sandwich Ingredients
When assembling the sandwiches, start with a base of butter lettuce to add crunch. Carefully divide the tuna filling evenly among the slices to ensure each sandwich has a balanced taste of the filling.
Storing Filling
If you have leftover tuna filling, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can be kept for up to three days. Before using, stir the filling as it may separate over time.
FAQ
Can I use tuna in water instead of tuna in oil?
Yes, you can use tuna in water, but keep in mind that it may result in a less rich flavor compared to using tuna in oil.
What type of mayonnaise is best for this recipe?
Whole-egg mayonnaise is recommended for a smoother taste. Brands like Hellmann’s, S&W, or Kewpie are good choices.
Can I substitute the pickles in the filling?
It is best to use standard dill pickles rather than sweet varieties to maintain the intended flavor profile of the filling.
What can I use instead of green onion?
You can substitute green onion with shallots or finely minced red onion for a different flavor.
How long can I store the tuna filling?
The tuna filling can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
The tuna sandwich made with a flavorful filling of canned tuna, creamy mayonnaise, and crunchy vegetables is a delightful treat that is easy to prepare. The combination of ingredients not only enhances the taste but also provides a nutritious meal option. With a balance of protein and healthy fats, this sandwich can be enjoyed as a satisfying lunch or snack. Customize it to suit your preferences and enjoy the freshness of each ingredient.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Tuna Salad Wrap
Swap out the bread for a whole grain wrap, adding sliced avocado and spinach for extra nutrition.
Tuna Melt
Top the tuna mixture with cheese and grill or toast until melted. Serve on crusty bread for a warm and gooey sandwich.
Stuffed Avocado
Scoop out halved avocados and fill with the tuna mixture, perfect for a low-carb option.
Cauliflower Rice Tuna Bowl
Serve the tuna filling over cauliflower rice with additional veggies for a healthy, low-carb meal.
Greek Yogurt Tuna Salad
Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version, mixing in diced cucumber and olives for a Mediterranean twist.
Tuna and Chickpea Salad
Combine tuna with canned chickpeas, diced tomatoes, and feta cheese for a protein-packed salad bowl.
Herbed Tuna Pasta
Mix the tuna filling into cooked pasta with cherry tomatoes and spinach for a quick and hearty pasta dish.
Quinoa Tuna Salad
Fold the tuna mixture into cooked quinoa with diced bell peppers and corn for a filling and nutritious salad.
