Pin Elevate your lunch routine with this Spicy Tuna Melt with Calabrian Chili. This bold and flavorful sandwich takes a classic pantry staple to new heights by combining a zesty tuna salad with the fiery kick of Italian chili peppers, melted provolone cheese, and perfectly toasted sourdough bread.
Pin The secret to this sandwich is the balance between the cool, creamy tuna mixture and the vibrant, lingering heat of the chili oil. Drizzling the sandwich with extra oil just before serving ensures every bite is packed with that signature Italian flair.
Ingredients
- Tuna Salad: 1 (5 oz / 140 g) can tuna in water (drained), 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp Greek yogurt, 1 celery stalk (finely diced), 1 tbsp red onion (finely diced), 1 tbsp Calabrian chili peppers (finely chopped in oil), 1 tsp Dijon mustard, 1 tsp lemon juice, salt and pepper to taste.
- Sandwich: 4 slices sourdough bread, 4 slices provolone or mozzarella cheese, 2 tbsp unsalted butter (softened).
- Garnish: 2 tsp Calabrian chili oil (for drizzling), fresh parsley (optional, chopped).
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a medium bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, celery, red onion, chopped Calabrian chili peppers, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well blended.
- Step 2
- Lay out the sourdough slices. Butter one side of each slice.
- Step 3
- Place two slices, buttered side down, on a work surface. Top each with half the tuna salad, then two slices of cheese.
- Step 4
- Cover with the remaining bread slices, buttered side up.
- Step 5
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Place the sandwiches in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden and the cheese is melted.
- Step 6
- Remove from the skillet, drizzle each sandwich with Calabrian chili oil, and sprinkle with parsley if desired.
- Step 7
- Slice in half and serve immediately.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
To ensure the perfect melt, use a mixing bowl for the tuna salad and a heavy skillet or grill pan. A spatula is essential for pressing the sandwich gently to ensure even browning and heat distribution throughout the sourdough slices.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily customize this recipe by swapping the provolone for sharp cheddar or fontina cheese. If you prefer even more heat, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or increasing the amount of chopped Calabrian chili in the tuna salad mixture.
Serviervorschläge
This spicy tuna melt pairs beautifully with a simple, crisp green salad or a side of crunchy kettle chips. It serves two, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or a cozy weeknight dinner.
Pin Indulge in this gooey, spicy masterpiece and enjoy the perfect fusion of American comfort food and Italian heat. Serve immediately while the cheese is at its most molten for the best experience.
Recipe Q&A
- → What type of bread works best for this sandwich?
Sourdough provides a sturdy, tangy base that crisps well, but crusty artisan breads can also be used.
- → Can I substitute the cheese used?
Yes, provolone or mozzarella are suggested, but sharp cheddar or fontina offer excellent alternative flavors.
- → How can the heat level be adjusted?
Increase Calabrian chili quantity or add red pepper flakes for more spice; to tone down, reduce chili or omit oil drizzle.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
The tuna mixture can be prepared in advance, but best to assemble and cook sandwiches fresh for optimal texture.
- → What are ideal accompaniments for this dish?
Serve with a crisp green salad or kettle chips to balance the bold, spicy flavors.