Tuna melt sandwiches are a comforting classic that never goes out of style. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty lunch or a quick and satisfying dinner, a well-made tuna melt can hit the spot perfectly. In this blog, we’ll guide you through the steps to create a deliciously simple tuna melt sandwich that is sure to become a go-to in your recipe collection.
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- Canned tuna (preferably in water): 1 can
- Mayonnaise: 2 tablespoons
- Dijon mustard (optional): 1 teaspoon
- Celery (finely chopped): 1 stalk
- Red onion (finely chopped): 2 tablespoons
- Salt: to taste
- Pepper: to taste
- Bread (your choice, but sourdough or whole grain works well): 4 slices
- Cheese (cheddar or American slices work great): 2 slices
- Butter or mayonnaise for grilling
The Tuna Salad:
First things first, you’ll need to prepare the tuna salad. Start by draining the canned tuna well. In a medium-sized bowl, flake the tuna with a fork until it’s nicely broken up. Now, add in the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard (if using) to the tuna and mix until evenly combined. The Dijon mustard is optional, but it adds a nice tanginess that complements the creaminess of the mayonnaise beautifully.
Next, fold in the finely chopped celery and red onion into the tuna mixture. These add a lovely crunch and a hint of sweetness that elevates the tuna salad to the next level. Lastly, season your tuna salad with a pinch of salt and pepper. Give it a final stir, and your tuna salad is ready!
Assembling the Sandwich:
Now comes the fun part—putting it all together. Lay out your bread slices on a clean surface. Spread a generous layer of the tuna salad onto two of the slices. Now, it’s cheese time! Place a slice of cheese on top of the tuna salad. If you’re a cheese lover, you can even add an extra slice to make it extra gooey.
Cover the tuna and cheese with the remaining bread slices, and you’re almost ready to grill.
Grilling the Sandwich:
Before you cook your sandwiches, you can choose to spread some butter or mayonnaise on the outside of the bread. This step is crucial as it leads to that beautiful golden crust we all crave in a grilled sandwich. If you’re using butter, spread a thin layer on the outside of the bread slices. If you’re using mayonnaise (a little trick for an even crispier crust!), spread a thin layer on the outside of the bread, just as you would with butter.
Now, heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place your sandwich(es) onto the skillet. Press down lightly with a spatula to ensure even cooking and that glorious cheese melt. Cook for about 2-3 minutes or until the bottom is golden brown and crispy. Carefully flip the sandwich over and repeat on the other side, cooking until the cheese is melted and the sandwich is cooked to your liking.
Serving Your Tuna Melt:
Once your tuna melt is perfectly grilled, remove it from the skillet and let it rest for a minute. This brief waiting period allows the cheese to settle a bit, making the sandwich easier to cut. Slice your tuna melt in half (or enjoy it whole!) and serve it immediately.
Tips for a Perfect Tuna Melt:
- Tuna Salad Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients to your tuna salad like chopped pickles, capers, or even a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
- Cheese Choices: Experiment with different types of cheese. Swiss, provolone, and mozzarella also make delightful options.
- Bread is Important: Don’t underestimate the choice of bread. A sturdy and flavorful bread can elevate your tuna melt from good to great.
At its heart, a tuna melt is a simple pleasure that combines the comforting flavors of tuna salad, melted cheese, and toasted bread. It’s a straightforward recipe that invites customization and experimentation. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy one of the coziest sandwiches around. Happy cooking!
