Tunnies
Tunnies are flavorful tuna sandwiches packed with hard-boiled eggs, cheeses, and tangy pickles, perfect for a quick lunch or informal gathering with bold, savory tastes.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the tuna, hard-boiled eggs, grated cheese, green pepper, chopped onion, ripe olives, chopped sweet pickles, and mayonnaise in a bowl.
- Fill hot dog buns with the tuna mixture.
- Wrap each filled bun in aluminum foil.
- Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F for 30 minutes.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. You can also substitute canned salmon or chicken for tuna if desired. Adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley can elevate the flavor. If you want a bit of heat, try mixing in some diced jalapeños. This dish can also be made ahead of time and served cold, similar to Aunt Edith's Crab Cakes.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these tasty tuna-filled buns with a side of potato chips or a fresh garden salad for a complete meal. They are also perfect for picnics or casual gatherings. For a fun twist, pair them with a cold glass of lemonade or iced tea. These buns can also be enjoyed alongside other seafood recipes for a delightful spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, unwrap the foil and place the filled buns on a baking sheet in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave them, but the texture might not be as crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tunnies contains roughly 152 calories, with 6g protein, 16g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is a good source of protein (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 501mg per serving (22% 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 fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked tuna instead of canned. Just make sure to flake it before mixing it with the other ingredients. This will give a fresher taste and a different texture to the dish. Cooking it in a light seasoning can enhance the flavors even more.
What can I substitute for the hard-boiled eggs?
If you want to avoid eggs, you can use mashed avocado or a tofu mixture as a substitute. This will provide a creamy texture without the eggs. Alternatively, omit them entirely and add more grated cheese or vegetables for added flavor and nutrients.
Can I prepare these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tuna mixture a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just fill the hot dog buns and wrap them in foil when you're ready to bake them. This makes it a perfect option for meal prep or when hosting gatherings.
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).