Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Tuna Panini Melt is a quick and satisfying meal that combines the richness of tuna with the savory taste of melted cheese and the crispiness of toasted sourdough bread. The addition of balsamic vinegar and dill pickle gives it a unique, tangy flavor that sets it apart from a traditional tuna sandwich. Ready in just 15 minutes, it’s perfect for a busy lunch or a simple, comforting dinner.
Ingredients
- 1 (5 ounce) can solid white albacore tuna in water (such as Bumble Bee)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
- 1 tablespoon chopped onion
- 1 dill pickle, chopped
- 4 slices sourdough bread
- 2 slices American cheese
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
- In a bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, chopped onion, and chopped dill pickle.
- Spread the tuna mixture evenly over two slices of sourdough bread.
- Top with a slice of American cheese, then place the remaining two slices of bread on top to form sandwiches.
- Preheat your panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place the sandwiches in the panini press and cook until the bread is crispy and the cheese is melted, about 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from the press and serve immediately.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
Variations
- Cheese Choices: Swap American cheese for cheddar, provolone, or Swiss for a different flavor.
- Add Veggies: Add fresh spinach, tomatoes, or avocado to the sandwich for extra freshness and flavor.
- Spicy: For a spicy twist, add a few dashes of hot sauce or some sliced jalapeños to the tuna mixture.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of this sandwich.
- Herb Infusion: Add some fresh herbs like parsley or dill to the tuna mixture for extra flavor.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: If you have leftovers, store the sandwich filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. You can assemble and grill it fresh when you’re ready to serve.
- Reheating: Reheat the sandwich in a skillet or panini press to restore the crispy texture of the bread.
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water?
Yes, you can use canned tuna in oil for a richer flavor. Just drain the oil before mixing it with the other ingredients.
2. Can I make this sandwich without a panini press?
Yes, you can use a skillet or griddle to cook the sandwich. Just place a heavy pan on top to press it down, and flip the sandwich to toast both sides.
3. Can I make this sandwich ahead of time?
You can prepare the tuna mixture ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Assemble and grill the sandwich just before serving.
4. What if I don’t have balsamic vinegar?
If you don’t have balsamic vinegar, you can substitute with red wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar for a slightly different tang.
5. Can I add more ingredients to this sandwich?
Absolutely! You can add things like sliced tomatoes, pickled jalapeños, or even bacon for extra flavor.
6. How do I know when the panini is done?
The panini is done when the bread is golden brown and crispy, and the cheese is melted inside.
7. Can I use a different type of bread?
Yes, you can use any bread you like, such as whole wheat, white, or ciabatta, but sourdough gives it a great texture and flavor.
8. How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes 2 sandwiches, but you can easily double the ingredients to make more.
9. Can I make this sandwich without cheese?
Yes, if you prefer a dairy-free version, you can skip the cheese, or substitute with a dairy-free cheese alternative.
10. Can I freeze the sandwiches?
It’s best to enjoy the sandwich fresh, but you can freeze the assembled sandwiches (before grilling) for up to a month. Thaw and grill them when ready.
Conclusion
The Tuna Panini Melt offers a fresh take on the classic tuna sandwich with a crispy, melty twist. The combination of savory tuna, creamy cheese, and tangy pickles between crispy sourdough bread makes for a flavorful, satisfying meal that’s ready in just 15 minutes. Whether you’re having it for lunch, dinner, or as a snack, this panini melt is sure to become a favorite!
Tuna Panini Melt
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 2 sandwiches
Description
The Tuna Panini Melt is a delicious twist on the classic tuna sandwich, featuring a flavorful tuna mixture, tangy balsamic vinegar, and melty cheese between crispy, toasted sourdough bread. It’s a quick, satisfying meal perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients
1 (5 ounce) can solid white albacore tuna in water (such as Bumble Bee)
1 tablespoon mayonnaise
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 tablespoon chopped onion
1 dill pickle, chopped
4 slices sourdough bread
2 slices American cheese
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, chopped onion, and chopped dill pickle.
- Spread the tuna mixture evenly on two slices of sourdough bread.
- Top each slice with a slice of American cheese, then place the remaining slices of bread on top to form sandwiches.
- Preheat your panini press according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
- Place the sandwiches in the panini press and cook for 3-4 minutes until the bread is crispy and the cheese has melted.
- Remove from the press and serve immediately.
Notes
For a different flavor, swap American cheese with cheddar, provolone, or Swiss.
Add fresh veggies like spinach, tomatoes, or avocado to the sandwich for extra freshness.
For spice, add hot sauce or sliced jalapeños to the tuna mixture.
Use gluten-free bread for a gluten-free version of this sandwich.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Lunch/Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
