Riviera Special
Creamy tuna-filled French rolls topped with melted cheese create a comforting, flavorful meal perfect for lunch or casual dinner gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Melt butter in a saucepan.
- Stir in flour and cook briefly.
- Add undiluted Carnation milk and cook until thickened.
- Season with salt and pepper.
- Add tuna, chopped pimento, and chopped onion; heat for 5 minutes.
- Cut the top off each French roll and remove the bread inside, leaving a shell.
- Fill each bread shell with the cream tuna mixture.
- Top each filled roll with a slice of cheese.
- Bake until the cheese melts and is bubbly.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance the flavor, consider adding a teaspoon of Dijon mustard to the cream mixture. For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for some of the butter or cheese. If you don’t have pimento, diced red bell peppers work well as a substitute. This dish can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator before baking, making it a perfect option for meal prep.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Riviera Special with a side of mixed greens or a light coleslaw for a refreshing contrast. These rolls also pair beautifully with a bowl of Clam Or Quahaug Chowder for a comforting meal. For a more substantial dinner, consider serving with roasted vegetables or a simple pasta salad.
Storage & Reheating
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, place the filled rolls in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through and the cheese is melted. Avoid microwaving as it can make the bread soggy.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Riviera Special contains roughly 1009 calories, with 4g protein, 21g carbohydrates, and 101g fat. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 938mg per serving (41% of the Daily Value).
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 use a different type of fish instead of tuna?
Yes, you can substitute canned salmon or even crab meat for a different flavor profile. Adjust the cooking time if needed, as some seafood may require less heating.
How can I make this dish gluten-free?
To make Riviera Special gluten-free, use gluten-free rolls and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux. Ensure all other ingredients are also certified gluten-free.
Can I prepare this recipe in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the cream mixture and fill the rolls ahead of time. Just store them in the refrigerator until you’re ready to bake them, which makes it a convenient option for gatherings or busy weeknights.
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).