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Signature Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich with fresh ingredients on artisan bread

Tuna Salad Sandwich

A comforting tuna salad sandwich made with rich albacore, creamy dressing, and fresh herbs, perfect for any season.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Lunch, Sandwich
Cuisine: American, Deli
Calories: 350
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Tuna Salad Mixture
  • 2 cans solid white albacore tuna (5 oz each), packed in olive oil Olive oil-packed tuna is recommended for richness.
  • ⅓ cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt or sour cream Greek yogurt lightens the texture.
  • 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish, well-drained
  • 1 ½ tablespoons finely minced red onion Rinse if milder flavor is desired.
  • 1 large celery stalk, finely minced (about 1/4 cup)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice Add more for brightness.
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill Substitute parsley if needed.
  • 1 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
  • ¼ teaspoon sea salt (or to taste) Add more to taste before serving.
  • ⅛ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Sandwich Assembly
  • 8 slices honey wheat bread or sourdough Sourdough is a great alternative.
  • 4 large leaves butter lettuce or green leaf lettuce
  • 1 ripe tomato, thinly sliced
  • to taste thinly sliced red onion (optional)

Method
 

Preparation
  1. Open and drain the tuna thoroughly, then flake it into a mixing bowl with a fork.
  2. In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, relish, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add minced celery, red onion, and dill to the tuna.
  4. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and gently fold until combined.
  5. Cover and chill the tuna salad for at least 30 minutes to let flavors meld.
Assembly
  1. Assemble sandwiches with bread, lettuce, tuna salad, tomato, and optional red onion.
  2. Toast the bread lightly if desired; layer lettuce directly on the bread to prevent sogginess.

Notes

For variations, consider substituting Greek yogurt for mayonnaise, adding avocado, or creating a tuna melt with cheese.