Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich – This classic sandwich features a creamy, perfectly seasoned tuna salad between two slices of soft, freshly baked bread. The crunch of crisp lettuce and a hint of tangy seasoning add a delightful contrast, making every bite irresistible.
What Makes the Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich So Special?
The Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich stands out for its balance of creamy tuna salad, fresh greens, and hearty bread. The tuna salad itself is the star—crafted with high-quality tuna, creamy mayonnaise, crunchy celery, and just the right amount of seasoning. Whether enjoyed as a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, this sandwich is versatile and delicious.
Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Tuna Salad Sandwich
- Use High-Quality Tuna: Opt for solid white albacore for a firm texture and clean flavor.
- Customize the Creaminess: Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to achieve your preferred consistency.
- Enhance the Flavor: Add a splash of lemon juice or a pinch of smoked paprika for an elevated taste.
- Crunch Factor: Consider adding chopped pickles or water chestnuts for an extra crunch.
- Bread Choices Matter: Sourdough, multigrain, or even a crusty baguette can elevate your sandwich.
Variations to Try
- Avocado Twist: Add slices of creamy avocado for a richer texture.
- Cheesy Melt: Top with a slice of Swiss or cheddar cheese and grill for a tuna melt variation.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps for a lighter, carb-free version.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in a dash of sriracha or diced jalapeños for a spicy twist.
How to Serve Your Tuna Salad Sandwich
This sandwich pairs beautifully with:
- Side Salad: A light green salad or coleslaw complements the rich flavors.
- Soup Pairing: Panera’s tomato soup or broccoli cheddar soup is a match made in heaven.
- Crispy Chips: A handful of kettle-cooked chips adds crunch and contrast.
How to Store Tuna Salad and Sandwiches
- Tuna Salad Storage:
- Store leftover tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Avoid leaving the salad at room temperature for prolonged periods to maintain freshness.
- Assembled Sandwich Storage:
- While best enjoyed fresh, you can wrap the assembled sandwich in parchment paper and store it in the fridge for up to 1 day.
Recipe FAQs
Can I make the tuna salad ahead of time?
Yes, the tuna salad can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
What bread is best for a tuna salad sandwich?
Sourdough is a popular choice, but multigrain, rye, or even ciabatta work wonderfully.
Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?
Absolutely! Greek yogurt is a healthier alternative that maintains the creaminess while reducing calories.
How can I keep my sandwich from getting soggy?
Layering lettuce between the bread and tuna salad acts as a barrier, keeping the bread from absorbing moisture.
Is the Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich healthy?
While the sandwich is nutritious, especially with lean protein from the tuna, its calorie count can vary depending on the amount of mayonnaise and bread used. Opt for whole-grain bread and light mayo for a healthier version.
Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich
Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich - This classic sandwich features a creamy, perfectly seasoned tuna salad between two slices of soft, freshly baked bread. The crunch of crisp lettuce and a hint of tangy seasoning add a delightful contrast, making every bite irresistible.
Ingredients
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 1 ½ tsp mayonnaise
- 1 tsp sweet relish
- ¾ tsp Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Honey wheat bread
- Sliced red onions
- Sliced tomatoes
- Leaf lettuce
Instructions
- Combine tuna, mayonnaise, relish, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until everything is well blended.
- Let the mixture rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to enhance the flavors.
- Spread the tuna salad on honey wheat bread, and layer with crisp leaf lettuce, sliced red onion, and juicy tomato slices.
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 105Total Fat 3gSaturated Fat 1gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 2gCholesterol 19mgSodium 322mgCarbohydrates 8gFiber 1gSugar 3gProtein 12g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Recreating the Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich at home allows you to control the ingredients, experiment with flavors, and enjoy a fresher, more personalized version of this café classic. Whether you’re a Panera loyalist or a tuna sandwich aficionado, this recipe is a must-try!
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