Open Faced Tuna Sandwiches

Prep: 10 min Cook: 4 min Serves: 4 Cuisine: American

Open-faced tuna sandwiches feature flaked tuna combined with crisp apple and onion, topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese on toasted bread—perfect for a quick, savory snack or light lunch.

Be the first to rate this recipe

Ingredients

  • 6 oz. light tuna in water, drained and flaked
  • 1 cup chopped unpeeled apple
  • 3 Tbsp. finely chopped onion
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 2 tsp. lemon juice
  • 1/8 tsp. pepper
  • 4 slices bread, toasted
  • 4 thin slices Monterey Jack cheese

Instructions

  1. In a bowl, combine the drained and flaked tuna, chopped apple, chopped onion, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and pepper.
  2. Spread the tuna mixture evenly on the toasted bread slices.
  3. Top each with a slice of Monterey Jack cheese.
  4. Broil about 4 inches from the heat for 4 minutes or until the cheese is melted.

Tips & Substitutions

For a twist, consider swapping out the light tuna for canned salmon or chickpeas for a vegan version. If you prefer a crunchier texture, add chopped celery or walnuts to the tuna mixture. Adjust the mayonnaise to your liking; Greek yogurt can be a healthier alternative. Try using whole grain bread for added flavor and nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

These open-faced tuna sandwiches are excellent served with a side of Confetti Coleslaw or a simple green salad. For a heartier meal, pair them with a bowl of soup, such as tomato or vegetable. Garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika for added color and flavor.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftover tuna mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For best results, reheat the sandwiches under the broiler again for a minute or two to melt the cheese and warm the bread, ensuring they retain their crispiness.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Open Faced Tuna Sandwiches contains roughly 917 calories, with 3g protein, 40g carbohydrates, and 85g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (30% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 684mg per serving (30% of the Daily Value).

917 kcal 46% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 3g 6% DV
Total Fat 84.6g 100% DV
Carbs 40.1g 15% DV
Fiber 1.2g 4% DV
Sugar 5g 10% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 684mg 30% DV
Potassium 186mg 4% DV
Cholesterol 25.8mg 9% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 65.5mcg 7% DV
Vitamin C 26.7mg 30% DV
Calcium 26.6mg 2% DV
Iron 1.2mg 7% DV
Contains Milk Egg Wheat/Gluten Fish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I prepare the tuna mixture ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tuna mixture up to a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you're ready to serve, simply spread it on the toasted bread and add the cheese before broiling.

What type of bread works best for this recipe?

While any bread can be used, hearty options like sourdough or whole grain complement the flavors well. These breads provide a sturdy base and enhance the overall texture of the sandwich, making them a great choice for open-faced preparations.

Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?

Absolutely! Use gluten-free bread to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Many brands offer delicious gluten-free options that will hold up well under the toppings. Just ensure that all other ingredients are also gluten-free.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

American recipes → Vegan recipes → Vegetarian recipes → All recipes →