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Classic Tuna Sandwich Recipe

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4.1 from 5 reviews

This classic Tuna Sandwich recipe offers a creamy, flavorful filling made from canned tuna, mayonnaise, crisp celery, tangy dill pickles, and fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal, the filling is spread generously between buttered bread slices and layered with crisp lettuce for added crunch. Ready in just 10 minutes and serving four, this sandwich balances rich and fresh flavors ideal for lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients

Tuna Filling

  • 425g / 15 oz canned tuna in oil, drained
  • 3/4 cup whole egg mayonnaise or Kewpie
  • 3/4 cup finely diced celery (about 1 stalk, cut lengthwise then diced)
  • 5 tbsp finely chopped dill pickle
  • 2 tbsp liquid from pickle jar
  • 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 3 tbsp finely chopped dill (or parsley or basil)
  • 1/3 cup finely sliced green onion (about 2 stems)
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper

Assembly

  • 8 pieces butter lettuce (2 per sandwich)
  • Salted butter, for spreading
  • 8 slices bread or 4 rolls

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Filling: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, chopped dill pickles, pickle juice, Dijon mustard, chopped herbs, sliced green onions, and black pepper. Use a wooden spoon to mix thoroughly, breaking up the tuna until the mixture is fairly smooth and the flavors meld together.
  2. Assemble the Sandwiches: Butter the bread slices generously on one side. Place two pieces of butter lettuce onto each sandwich portion. Evenly divide the tuna filling among the sandwiches, spreading it on top of the lettuce. Close the sandwiches and serve immediately for best freshness and crunch.

Notes

  • Make sure to drain the canned tuna well to avoid soggy sandwiches.
  • Using Kewpie mayonnaise adds a slight sweetness and creaminess but whole egg mayonnaise works just as well.
  • The pickle juice adds a subtle tang; adjust quantity to taste depending on pickle brand.
  • You can substitute dill with parsley or basil to vary the flavor profile.
  • Choose good quality bread or soft rolls to match your preferred sandwich style.