Toasted Tuna Buns for Two: A Quick and Delicious Lunch Recipe
When it comes to whipping up a satisfying and quick meal, the Toasted Tuna Buns for Two shine as an ideal choice, especially for those who might think they don’t like tuna. This recipe was born one night in an attempt to convert my fiancé, who initially turned his nose up at tuna. With just a bit of creativity and some kitchen essentials, I was able to craft a delightful dish that proved to be a winner, transforming an often underrated ingredient into something utterly delicious. The great thing about this recipe is its flexibility; you can adjust the ingredients to suit your taste, whether you want a creamier filling or a different level of cheesiness. Here’s how to create these scrumptious toasted tuna buns, perfect for lunch or an afternoon snack, in just about 20 minutes.
Ingredients
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need for this delightful recipe, presented in an easy-to-follow table format:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tuna in water | 1 can (5 oz) |
| Celery | 1 stalk |
| Onion | 1/8 medium |
| Mayonnaise | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt | 1 teaspoon |
| Ground black pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Cayenne pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| American cheese | 1–2 slices |
| Buns (large or regular) | 2 big or 4 regular |
Nutritional Information
This recipe is not only quick to prepare, but it also offers a hearty serving of protein and flavors that are sure to please. Below is the nutritional breakdown per serving:
| Nutritional Component | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 201.1 kcal |
| Total Fat | 5.9 g |
| Saturated Fat | 1.2 g |
| Cholesterol | 39.4 mg |
| Sodium | 794.5 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12.5 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 1.1 g |
| Sugars | 1.7 g |
| Protein | 23.2 g |
Instructions
Now, let’s dive into the preparation steps to create these tasty toasted tuna buns. Each step is designed to be straightforward, making it easy even for beginner cooks.
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Combine the Ingredients: Begin by opening the can of tuna and draining it well. In a small to medium mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna with finely chopped celery and onion. Add in the mayonnaise, salt, ground black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the mix.
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Mix Thoroughly: Using a fork or a spatula, mix all the ingredients well until they are fully combined and the mixture is creamy. Taste the mixture at this stage to see if it meets your seasoning preferences; feel free to add more salt, pepper, or mayonnaise to achieve your desired consistency and flavor.
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Spread on the Buns: Take your buns—whether you opt for two big ones or four regular-sized ones—and slice them in half. Generously spread the tuna mixture on both sides of each bun. The amount you spread is really up to your personal preference, but don’t be shy; make sure it’s a hearty portion!
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Add the Cheese: Place one slice of American cheese on each of the bottom bun halves, directly over the tuna spread. If you’re a fan of a cheesier flavor, you might want to add an extra slice, but do keep in mind that this can make the buns quite rich.
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Assemble the Sandwiches: Carefully place the top bun back onto the bottom bun, ensuring that the cheese sits in the middle of the tuna mixture. This setup not only keeps the cheese melty during baking but also makes for a satisfying bite when it’s time to enjoy.
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Wrap and Bake: To achieve that perfect toasty finish, wrap each sandwich individually in aluminum foil. Place these wrapped sandwiches on a cookie sheet and pop them into a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C). Bake for about 15 minutes, or until the buns are warm and toasty and the cheese is beautifully melted.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once baked, carefully unwrap the sandwiches from the foil, being cautious of the steam that may escape. Serve your toasted tuna buns hot, and enjoy them as a comforting meal or a delightful snack.
Tips and Variations
- Cheese Lovers: If you prefer a lighter cheese flavor, consider using half a slice per sandwich instead of a full slice, or even omit the cheese entirely for a lighter option.
- Vegetable Boost: To enhance the nutritional value, feel free to add additional veggies to the tuna mixture, such as finely diced bell peppers or carrots for extra crunch and color.
- Make it Spicy: If you love a bit of heat, try adding some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mixture for an added kick.
Conclusion
Toasted Tuna Buns for Two not only serves as a testament to the versatility of canned tuna but also showcases how simple ingredients can come together to create something memorable. In just 20 minutes, you can craft a delicious meal that appeals to a wide range of tastes, making it a perfect option for lunch, snacks, or a quick dinner. Give this recipe a try, and you may find yourself with a new favorite dish that has the power to convert even the most skeptical of tuna eaters!
