Spicy Tuna Melt Calabrian

Indulge in a sophisticated twist on a classic comfort food with this Spicy Tuna Melt with Calabrian Chili. This bold and flavorful sandwich combines a zesty tuna salad with the distinctive heat of Italian chilis, all layered between slices of tangy sourdough and gooey melted cheese. Perfect for a quick yet gourmet pescatarian lunch, this easy-to-make dish brings an exciting American-Italian fusion to your table in just 25 minutes.

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The secret to this sandwich's success lies in the layering of textures and the high-quality ingredients. By mixing finely diced celery and red onion into the tuna, you ensure a satisfying crunch in every bite. The final drizzle of vibrant Calabrian chili oil not only adds a kick of heat but also a beautiful, appetizing color that makes this sandwich look as good as it tastes.

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, chopped (optional)

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

For the most even browning, ensure your skillet is preheated over medium heat before adding the sandwiches. Using a spatula to gently press the sourdough during the 3–4 minutes of cooking per side helps the cheese melt thoroughly while creating a perfectly toasted exterior.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Feel free to customize the flavor by swapping the provolone for sharp cheddar or fontina. If you prefer even more heat, you can add extra Calabrian chili peppers to the tuna mixture or a pinch of red pepper flakes for an added kick.

Serviervorschläge

This spicy tuna melt pairs wonderfully with a simple green side salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness. For a classic lunch experience, serve it alongside a handful of crispy kettle chips.

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Whether you are looking for a quick weeknight dinner or an impressive weekend lunch, this Spicy Tuna Melt with Calabrian Chili is sure to satisfy. With its perfect combination of heat, crunch, and melted goodness, it is a gourmet upgrade to a beloved classic that you will want to make again and again.

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of cheese works best for this sandwich?

Provolone and mozzarella melt beautifully, providing creamy texture. You can substitute sharp cheddar or fontina for a stronger flavor.

→ How can I adjust the spice level?

Increase the amount of Calabrian chili peppers or add a pinch of red pepper flakes to taste for extra heat.

→ Can I use a different bread type?

Sourdough adds a tangy contrast, but other sturdy breads like multigrain or rye can work well for grilling and flavor balance.

→ How do I prevent the sandwich from becoming soggy?

Butter the bread sides to create a barrier and cook on medium heat until golden and crisp, which keeps the sandwich firm.

→ What side dishes pair well with this sandwich?

Simple green salads or crunchy kettle chips complement the bold flavors and provide refreshing contrast.