Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe

Craving Panera’s Tuna Salad Sandwich?

Panera Bread’s Tuna Salad Sandwich is a classic lunchtime favorite known for its creamy, flavorful tuna salad and fresh ingredients. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that’s become a go-to for many.

This copycat recipe lets you recreate that beloved Panera taste at home. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a tasty lunch option, this recipe is sure to hit the spot.

Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe

Indulge in the classic flavors of Panera Bread’s tuna salad sandwich with this easy-to-make recipe. A perfect blend of tuna, mayonnaise, and spices, served on toasted bread with crisp lettuce and juicy tomato.

Ingredients:

• 240g / 1 cup canned tuna in water, drained and flaked
• 60g / 1/4 cup mayonnaise
• 15g / 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 7g / 1 teaspoon chopped fresh dill
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slices whole wheat bread
• 2 lettuce leaves
• 2 tomato slices

Instructions:

1. Mix tuna, mayonnaise, mustard, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper in a bowl until well combined.
2. To toast bread, preheat a grill or toaster to 180°C / 350°F. Grill for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Assemble the sandwich by spreading tuna salad on toasted bread, topping with lettuce and tomato.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Information (per serving):

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 24g
• Carbohydrates: 24g
• Sodium: 450mg

Ingredients for Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich

To make an authentic Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich, the following ingredients are required:

• 425 g / 15 oz canned tuna (drained and flaked)
• 120 g / 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 60 g / 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 20 g / 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 10 g / 2 teaspoons chopped fresh dill
• 5 g / 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
• 2 g / 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1 g / 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 4 slices of whole grain bread (toasted)
• Letuce, tomato, and red onion (for garnish)
• Optional ingredients:
  • 40 g / 1/4 cup diced celery
  • 40 g / 1/4 cup diced apple
  • 20 g / 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil

These ingredients will help create a delicious and authentic Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich. The optional ingredients can be added to enhance the flavor and texture of the sandwich.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich

Ready to recreate that classic Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich at home? This guide will walk you through each step, from crafting the perfect tuna salad to assembling a delicious sandwich.

Making the Tuna Salad

1. Combine 240 g (1 cup) drained tuna, 120 g (1/2 cup) mayonnaise, 1 tbsp finely chopped celery, and 1 tbsp finely chopped red onion in a medium bowl.
2. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
3. Stir gently to combine all ingredients until evenly distributed.
4. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more mayonnaise for creaminess or lemon juice for brightness.

Assembling the Sandwich

1. Spread 2 tbsp of the prepared tuna salad evenly over two slices of your favorite bread.
2. Top one slice with 60 g (1/2 cup) shredded lettuce and 1 slice of tomato.
3. Place the second slice of bread on top to complete the sandwich.
4. Cut the sandwich in half diagonally for a classic presentation.

Optional Additions

Feel free to customize your Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich with your favorite toppings:

• Add a sprinkle of paprika or dried dill for extra flavor.
• Include a few slices of cucumber for a refreshing crunch.
• Swap out the tomato for avocado for a creamy twist.

Pro Tips for Making the Perfect Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich

Take your tuna salad sandwich game to the next level with these expert tips.

Flavor Boosters

• Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice (about 1-2 tablespoons) to brighten the flavors and balance the richness.
• Use high-quality mayonnaise (about 2-3 tablespoons) for a creamy and tangy base.
• Incorporate diced red onion (about 1/4 cup) for a punch of sweetness and crunch.

Texture Tips

• Chill the tuna salad in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and the textures to set.
• Use a fork to fluff the tuna salad and break up any clumps, creating a light and airy texture.
• Add some chopped celery (about 1/4 cup) for a refreshing crunch and a pop of green.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

• Don’t overmix the tuna salad, as it can become tough and dense.
• Be mindful of the mayonnaise ratio, as too much can make the salad soggy and overwhelming.
• Make sure to toast the bread until it’s lightly browned and crispy, providing a satisfying crunch to the sandwich.

Substitutions and Alternatives

To accommodate various dietary needs, several ingredients in the Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe can be modified or substituted.

• For a gluten-free option, replace the 120 g / 4 oz bread with a gluten-free alternative, such as a 120 g / 4 oz gluten-free bread loaf.
• To reduce calories, use 60 g / 2 oz of low-fat mayonnaise instead of 80 g / 2.8 oz of regular mayonnaise, reducing the overall calorie count by approximately 10%.
• As a dairy-free substitute, swap 55 g / 1.9 oz of cheddar cheese with 55 g / 1.9 oz of vegan cheddar cheese, maintaining a similar flavor profile.
• For a spicy kick, add 5 g / 0.2 oz of diced jalapeño peppers to the tuna salad mixture, increasing the heat level by 20-30%.

When making these substitutions, note that the flavor and texture of the final product may vary slightly. However, these modifications can help create a version of the Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich that suits specific dietary requirements and preferences.

Creative Twists on the Classic Panera Tuna Salad

Love the Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich but want to shake things up? Here are a few ideas to personalize your next tuna salad creation:

1. Mediterranean Flair

   Add chopped Kalamata olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese for a briny, tangy twist. A sprinkle of dried oregano adds an extra layer of Mediterranean flavor. Prep time: 5 minutes.

2. Spicy Southwest

   Mix in diced jalapeños, a squeeze of lime juice, and a sprinkle of chili powder for a kick. Top with avocado slices and a drizzle of sriracha mayo for extra heat. Prep time: 5 minutes.

3. Creamy Dill Delight

   Swap out the celery for fresh dill and add a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt for a richer, tangier flavor. A sprinkle of lemon zest brightens the mix. Prep time: 5 minutes.

Get creative and experiment with your favorite flavors! The possibilities are endless.

Storing and Keeping the Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich Fresh

Proper storage is key to maintaining the freshness and food safety of your Panera Bread-inspired tuna salad sandwich.

Refrigeration

Store the sandwich in an airtight container at a temperature of 4°C (39°F) or below. This will help prevent the growth of bacteria and keep the sandwich fresh for up to 3 days.

• Place the sandwich in a single layer to prevent moisture from accumulating.
• Label the container with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Keep the container away from strong-smelling foods, as the tuna salad may absorb odors.

Freezing

For longer storage, consider freezing the sandwich. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil and place it in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen tuna salad sandwiches can be stored for up to 2 months at -18°C (0°F) or below.

When you’re ready to eat, thaw the sandwich overnight in the refrigerator or at room temperature for a few hours.

Troubleshooting Common Issues with the Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich

When preparing the Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich, some issues may arise that can affect the overall quality and taste of the dish. Here are some common problems and their solutions:

• Dry tuna salad: If the tuna salad becomes too dry, try adding a little more mayonnaise (30 g / 2 tablespoons) or lemon juice (15 ml / 1 tablespoon) to restore moisture.
• Soggy bread: To prevent the bread from becoming soggy, toast it in the oven at 180°C / 350°F for a few minutes before assembling the sandwich.
• Overly fishy taste: If the tuna flavor is too strong, balance it out by adding more chopped onion (60 g / 1/2 cup) or celery (60 g / 1/2 cup) to the salad.
• Storage issues: When storing the tuna salad, make sure to keep it refrigerated at a temperature below 4°C / 39°F to prevent spoilage. Consume within 24 hours for optimal freshness.

By addressing these common issues, you can ensure that your Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich turns out delicious and fresh every time.

Nutritional Information for the Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich

This Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich is a classic choice, but let’s take a look at what’s packed into each serving:

• Calories: 420
• Protein: 30g
• Fat: 20g
• Carbohydrates: 30g

The sandwich offers a good amount of protein thanks to the tuna, making it a satisfying choice. It also contains a healthy dose of carbohydrates for energy.

Diet Tags:

• GF (Gluten-Free)

Key Takeaways from the Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe

This recipe provides a delicious and easy-to-make tuna salad sandwich, inspired by Panera Bread. The key to this dish is using high-quality ingredients, including 240 g / 1 cup of sustainably sourced tuna, and mixing it with the right amount of mayonnaise and chopped onions.

• Combine 120 g / 1/2 cup of mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon / 15 ml of Dijon mustard for added flavor.
• Add 1/4 cup / 30 g of chopped celery and 1/4 cup / 30 g of chopped red onion for crunch and texture.
• Season with salt and pepper to taste, and mix well.

Assemble the sandwich by spooning the tuna salad onto whole grain bread, toasted to perfection at 190°C / 375°F for 5-7 minutes. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch, and can be served with a side of mixed greens or chips for a complete meal.

A Taste of Nostalgia

There’s something about a classic tuna salad sandwich that just hits the spot. It’s simple, satisfying, and always reminds me of cozy lunches spent at Panera Bread. I’ve been perfecting my own version of their signature tuna salad for years, and I’m finally ready to share it with you!

This recipe is all about capturing that perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors. I use high-quality tuna packed in olive oil for a richer taste and texture. The celery and red onion add a delightful crunch, while the Dijon mustard and lemon juice provide a bright, acidic punch.

I encourage you to adjust the ingredients to your liking. If you prefer a milder flavor, use less mustard. For a creamier texture, add a bit more mayonnaise. The beauty of this recipe is its versatility.

Pro Tip:

• For a truly authentic Panera experience, serve your tuna salad on their signature sourdough bread.
• Add a sprinkle of fresh dill or chives for an extra layer of flavor.

Enjoy Your Delicious Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich

With this Panera Bread Tuna Salad Sandwich recipe, you can now recreate the flavors of your favorite café at home. The combination of succulent tuna, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing will leave you wanting more. We hope you’ve enjoyed making and devouring this delicious sandwich as much as we have.

Don’t be afraid to experiment and make this recipe your own. Try adding different vegetables or spices to give it a unique twist. And if you’re looking for more lunch inspiration, be sure to check out our other recipes for a variety of tasty and satisfying options.