Are you a tuna lover looking to recreate the iconic Subway tuna sandwich in the comfort of your own home? Look no further. With a few simple ingredients and some expert tips, you can make a delicious and satisfying tuna sandwich that rivals the ones served at your local Subway restaurant.
Understanding the Subway Tuna Sandwich
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a closer look at what makes the Subway tuna sandwich so special. The key to this sandwich is the combination of flavors and textures that come together to create a truly unique taste experience.
The Subway tuna sandwich typically consists of canned tuna mixed with mayonnaise, chopped onions, and diced celery, served on freshly baked bread with lettuce, tomato, and cheese. The tuna is the star of the show, and it’s essential to use high-quality canned tuna to get the best flavor.
Choosing the Right Canned Tuna
When it comes to choosing the right canned tuna, there are a few things to keep in mind. Look for tuna that is labeled as “skipjack” or “albacore,” as these varieties tend to have a milder flavor and a firmer texture. Avoid tuna that is labeled as “light” or “chunk light,” as these varieties can be too soft and may contain added preservatives.
It’s also essential to check the ingredient list and look for tuna that is low in mercury and has no added preservatives or fillers. Some popular brands of canned tuna that meet these criteria include Bumble Bee, Chicken of the Sea, and Wild Planet.
Preparing the Tuna Salad
Now that we’ve covered the basics of choosing the right canned tuna, let’s move on to preparing the tuna salad. This is where the magic happens, and you get to add your own personal touches to make the sandwich truly special.
To make the tuna salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
- 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of chopped onion
- 1 tablespoon of diced celery
- Salt and pepper to taste
In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked tuna, mayonnaise, chopped onion, and diced celery. Mix everything together until the tuna is fully coated with the mayonnaise and the onion and celery are evenly distributed.
Adding Some Extra Flavor
Now that you have the basic tuna salad recipe down, it’s time to add some extra flavor to take it to the next level. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add some chopped hard-boiled egg to the tuna salad for extra protein and creaminess.
- Mix in some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill to add a bright and refreshing flavor.
- Add some grated cheddar cheese to the tuna salad for an extra burst of flavor.
- Use a flavored mayonnaise like garlic or chipotle to add some extra depth to the tuna salad.
Assembling the Sandwich
Now that you have the tuna salad prepared, it’s time to assemble the sandwich. This is where you get to add your favorite toppings and make the sandwich truly your own.
To assemble the sandwich, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 slices of freshly baked bread (white or whole wheat)
- Lettuce
- Tomato
- Cheese (optional)
- Cucumber (optional)
- Bell peppers (optional)
Start by spreading a layer of tuna salad on one slice of bread. Add some lettuce, tomato, and cheese (if using), and top with the second slice of bread.
Adding Some Extra Toppings
Now that you have the basic sandwich assembled, it’s time to add some extra toppings to make it truly special. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Add some sliced cucumber or bell peppers to the sandwich for extra crunch and flavor.
- Use a flavored cheese like cheddar or Swiss to add some extra depth to the sandwich.
- Add some sliced olives or pickles to the sandwich for a salty and tangy flavor.
- Use a spicy mayonnaise or mustard to add some extra heat to the sandwich.
Tips and Variations
Now that you have the basic recipe down, it’s time to get creative and make the sandwich your own. Here are a few tips and variations to get you started:
- Use a panini press or grill to toast the bread and melt the cheese for a crispy and gooey sandwich.
- Add some sliced meats like turkey or ham to the sandwich for extra protein and flavor.
- Use a flavored bread like sourdough or ciabatta to add some extra depth to the sandwich.
- Add some sliced avocado or hummus to the sandwich for a creamy and healthy twist.
Making it a Meal
Now that you have the perfect Subway tuna sandwich, it’s time to make it a meal. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
- Serve the sandwich with a side of chips or a green salad for a quick and easy lunch.
- Add some sliced fruit or a side of carrot sticks to the sandwich for a healthy and satisfying snack.
- Use the tuna salad as a topping for a salad or a baked potato for a protein-packed meal.
Conclusion
Making the perfect Subway tuna sandwich is easier than you think. With a few simple ingredients and some expert tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying sandwich that rivals the ones served at your local Subway restaurant. Whether you’re a tuna lover or just looking for a quick and easy lunch, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot. So go ahead, get creative, and make it your own.
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Canned tuna | 1 can (drained and flaked) |
| Mayonnaise | 1/4 cup |
| Chopped onion | 1 tablespoon |
| Diced celery | 1 tablespoon |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Bread | 2 slices (white or whole wheat) |
| Lettuce | 1 cup (chopped) |
| Tomato | 1 cup (sliced) |
| Cheese (optional) | 1 cup (shredded) |
By following these simple steps and using a few expert tips, you can create a delicious and satisfying Subway tuna sandwich that’s sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
What type of tuna is best for a Subway-style tuna sandwich?
The best type of tuna for a Subway-style tuna sandwich is skipjack or albacore tuna that is canned in water. This type of tuna has a lighter flavor and a firmer texture that holds up well to being mixed with mayonnaise and other ingredients. Look for a brand that is low in mercury and has no added preservatives or flavorings.
When selecting a canned tuna, make sure to check the label for any added ingredients or preservatives. You want to choose a tuna that is as natural as possible to get the best flavor. Also, consider the texture of the tuna, if it’s too flaky or too dense it might not be the best choice for a Subway-style tuna sandwich.
How do I drain and flake the tuna?
To drain and flake the tuna, start by opening the can and pouring off the liquid. Use a fork to break up the tuna into small pieces, then place it on a paper towel-lined plate to drain any excess moisture. Once the tuna is drained, use a fork to flake it into smaller pieces. Be careful not to over-flake the tuna, as it can become mushy and unappetizing.
It’s also important to note that you should not squeeze the tuna too hard, as it can become dense and lose its texture. Instead, gently press the tuna with the fork to remove any excess moisture. This will help the tuna to stay light and fluffy, which is perfect for a Subway-style tuna sandwich.
What is the best mayonnaise to use for a Subway-style tuna sandwich?
The best mayonnaise to use for a Subway-style tuna sandwich is a neutral-tasting mayonnaise that won’t overpower the flavor of the tuna. Look for a brand that is made with simple ingredients and has no added preservatives or flavorings. Some popular brands of mayonnaise that work well for a Subway-style tuna sandwich include Hellmann’s and Duke’s.
When choosing a mayonnaise, consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. If you want a classic Subway-style tuna sandwich, a neutral-tasting mayonnaise is the way to go. However, if you want to add a bit of flavor to your sandwich, you could consider using a mayonnaise with a hint of lemon or garlic.
How much mayonnaise should I use for a Subway-style tuna sandwich?
The amount of mayonnaise to use for a Subway-style tuna sandwich is a matter of personal preference. However, a good rule of thumb is to start with a small amount of mayonnaise, such as 1-2 tablespoons, and mix it with the tuna until it’s just combined. You can always add more mayonnaise if you find the tuna too dry, but it’s harder to remove excess mayonnaise from the tuna.
When mixing the mayonnaise with the tuna, be careful not to overmix. You want to create a smooth and creamy texture, but you don’t want to end up with a tuna salad that’s too uniform. Instead, aim for a texture that’s slightly chunky and still retains some of the tuna’s natural texture.
What are some common add-ins for a Subway-style tuna sandwich?
Some common add-ins for a Subway-style tuna sandwich include diced onions, chopped celery, and sliced pickles. You can also consider adding some chopped fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, to give the sandwich a bit of brightness and flavor. Other options might include diced bell peppers, sliced jalapeños, or grated cheddar cheese.
When choosing add-ins for your Subway-style tuna sandwich, consider the flavor profile you’re aiming for. If you want a classic tuna sandwich, stick with simple ingredients like onions and celery. However, if you want to add a bit of excitement to your sandwich, consider using some more adventurous ingredients like pickles or jalapeños.
How do I assemble a Subway-style tuna sandwich?
To assemble a Subway-style tuna sandwich, start by laying a slice of bread on a flat surface. Spread a layer of tuna salad on top of the bread, leaving a small border around the edges. Add any desired add-ins, such as diced onions or sliced pickles, on top of the tuna salad. Finally, top with another slice of bread and serve.
When assembling the sandwich, be careful not to overfill it. You want to create a sandwich that’s easy to eat and won’t fall apart when you take a bite. Also, consider toasting the bread before assembling the sandwich, as this will help to bring out the flavors of the ingredients and create a crispy texture.
Can I customize a Subway-style tuna sandwich to suit my tastes?
Yes, you can customize a Subway-style tuna sandwich to suit your tastes. Consider using different types of bread, such as whole wheat or sourdough, to change up the flavor and texture of the sandwich. You can also experiment with different add-ins, such as diced apples or chopped nuts, to add some extra flavor and texture.
When customizing a Subway-style tuna sandwich, don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Consider using different types of protein, such as chicken or tofu, to create a vegetarian or vegan version of the sandwich. You can also experiment with different seasonings and spices, such as paprika or cumin, to add some extra flavor to the tuna salad.