Tuna Melt
A Tuna Melt is a classic comfort food that combines creamy tuna salad with melted cheese, all sandwiched between two slices of golden-brown bread. It is a warm and satisfying meal that is perfect for lunch, dinner, or a quick snack. With its simple ingredients and easy preparation, this dish is loved by many.
Why Make This Recipe
Making a Tuna Melt is a great choice for several reasons. First, it is quick to prepare, making it perfect for busy days. Second, it uses common ingredients that you may already have in your kitchen. Lastly, it is delicious and comforting, providing a warm and filling option for any mealtime.
How to Make Tuna Melt
To create your very own Tuna Melt, follow these steps:
Ingredients
- 4 (5-ounce) cans of tuna, drained
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1/2 celery stalk, chopped
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of chopped parsley
- 5 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons of olive oil, divided
- 1/2 cup of shredded mozzarella
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 12 slices of bread
- Softened butter
Directions
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, chopped onion, chopped celery, minced garlic, parsley, mayonnaise, and 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Mix well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Butter one side of each slice of bread.
- Take one slice of bread, place it butter-side down in the skillet, and spread a portion of the tuna mixture on top.
- Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella, then add another slice of bread on top, butter-side up.
- Cook until golden brown, then carefully flip and cook the other side until golden and the cheese is melted.
- Repeat with the remaining slices.
- Serve hot.
How to Serve Tuna Melt
Serve your Tuna Melt warm and crispy, cut in half for easy handling. You can pair it with a side of chips, pickles, or a simple salad for a complete meal.
How to Store Tuna Melt
If you have leftover Tuna Melt, wrap it in foil or store it in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, you may place it in a skillet on low heat, or use an oven to restore its crispy texture.
Tips to Make Tuna Melt
- For extra flavor, try adding slices of tomato or a layer of avocado inside the sandwich.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for a unique twist, like cheddar or pepper jack.
- Make the tuna mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for convenience.
Variation
You can turn your Tuna Melt into a healthier version by using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise and whole grain bread. You may also try adding spinach or roasted red peppers for added nutrients.
FAQs
1. Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked tuna. Just flake it and mix it with the other ingredients as you would with canned tuna.
2. Can I freeze Tuna Melts?
It’s best to avoid freezing Tuna Melts because the bread may become soggy upon reheating. However, you can freeze the tuna salad mixture separately.
3. What can I serve with Tuna Melt?
Tuna Melts pair well with potato chips, a side salad, or a bowl of soup. You can also enjoy them with fresh veggies or fries!
