Copycat Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe

Are you looking for the best tuna fish salad recipe, look no further, with a few simple ingredient, you can make a quick meal! Perfect for the entire family!

Craving a fresh, flavorful sandwich? Try this Copycat Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich recipe! It’s packed with creamy tuna salad, crisp veggies, and served on your favorite bread, giving you the perfect combination of taste and texture—just like the one from Panera, but made right in your own kitchen! Ideal for lunch or a quick snack, this sandwich is sure to hit the spot.

If you love easy Lunch recipes, try my recipe for Air Fryer Tuna Melt, Air Fryer Turkey Pinwheels, or even Air Fryer Spinach Strawberry Salad.

I love a quick meal, and this one is no different!

Why You Will Love This Recipe!

✅ Fresh and Flavorful: The creamy tuna salad with crisp veggies and fresh herbs makes each bite satisfying and delicious.
✅ Quick and Easy: This recipe comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy lunches or a quick snack.
✅ Perfectly Balanced: The combination of tuna, mayo, and seasonings creates the perfect balance of flavors.
✅ Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients to fit your taste, adding more veggies or spices if you like.
✅ Panera Copycat: Enjoy the same great taste of Panera’s tuna salad sandwich from the comfort of your home!

Tuna Fish Salad Ingredients

• Canned Tuna (drained): Tender tuna packed in water or oil.
• Mayonnaise: Creamy base for the tuna salad mixture.
• Dijon Mustard: Adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor.
• Celery (chopped): Adds crunch and freshness to the salad.
• Red Onion (chopped): Brings a mild, savory bite to the mix.
• Pickles or Relish: Sweet or tangy flavor for added zest.

How To Make Copycat Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe

Prepare Ingredients: Drain the canned tuna thoroughly and place it in a large mixing bowl. Finely chop the celery and red onion.

Mix the Base: Add the mayonnaise and Dijon mustard to the tuna. Mix well until the tuna is evenly coated.

Add the Vegetables: Add the chopped celery and red onion to the tuna mixture. Stir to combine.

Add the Flavorings: Add the pickles or relish and lemon juice to the mixture. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve: Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serving Suggestions: Serve the tuna salad on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers.

Copycat Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe Tips

• Choose High-Quality Tuna: Use solid white albacore tuna for a milder flavor and firmer texture. Consider using tuna packed in olive oil for added richness. Draining the tuna is key for a great tuna salad sandwich.
• Chop Finely: Use fresh, crisp vegetables like celery and red onion for added texture and flavor.
• Balancing Creaminess: Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your preference. Start with a smaller amount and add more if needed.
• Healthier Option: Greek yogurt or Avocado can be used as a healthier alternative for tuna salad.
• Mix-Ins and Variations: For a twist, add ingredients like capers, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes.

Storing

Store any leftover Copycat Panera Tuna Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. If you’ve already assembled the sandwich, it’s best to store the tuna salad separately from the bread to prevent sogginess. Once ready to serve, assemble the sandwich fresh for the best texture and flavor.

Recipe Variations

• Seasoning: Taste the salad before adding salt, as some tuna and mayonnaise brands can be salty. Freshly ground black pepper can add a nice kick.
• Add Some Crunch: Include finely chopped vegetables like bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots for extra crunch and color.
• Enhance with Herbs and Spices: Fresh herbs like parsley, dill, or chives can elevate the flavor. A pinch of paprika or a dash of hot sauce can add a subtle depth.
• Mix-Ins and Variations: For a twist, add ingredients like capers, olives, or sun-dried tomatoes. Try mixing in a small amount of Dijon mustard for a tangy flavor.
• Serving Ideas: Serve the tuna salad chilled for the best flavor. Use it as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or lettuce cups. Serve it with crackers, pita bread, or on top of a salad for a light meal.

What To Serve With Panera Tuna Salad Copycat Recipe

Serve with a quick Strawberry Salad, Copycat Panera Green Goddess Cobb Salad, or even a side dish of Air Fryer BBQ Potato Chips.

If you want some homemade bread recipes, serve with Air Fryer White Sandwich Bread, Air Fryer Sourdough Bread, or for a twist, use Air Fryer Garlic Bread.

Copycat Panera Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe Faqs

What kind of tuna is best for tuna salad? Albacore tuna or tuna packed in olive oil can also be used for a richer taste. Some good canned tunas are Trader Joe’s or Costco Kirkland Signature Albacore Solid White Tuna.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise? Yes, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise in tuna salad. It adds creaminess with fewer calories and more protein. You can also use a mix of both for a balanced flavor.

How long does tuna salad last in the fridge? Tuna salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Can I freeze tuna salad? Freezing tuna salad is not recommended as the mayonnaise can separate and the texture can become watery upon thawing.

What can I add to my tuna salad for extra crunch? Adding diced celery, bell peppers, pickles, or red onion can give your tuna salad a satisfying crunch.

How can I make my tuna salad healthier? Use Greek yogurt or avocado instead of mayonnaise, add plenty of vegetables like cucumber, tomatoes, and spinach, and use less salt.

Can I make tuna salad without mayo? Yes, you can make tuna salad without mayo by using alternatives like Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, hummus, or a vinaigrette dressing.

How do I keep my tuna salad from being too dry? Ensure you drain the tuna well and use enough moist ingredients like mayonnaise or Greek yogurt. If it’s still too dry, add a bit of olive oil, lemon juice, or even a splash of pickle juice for added moisture.

Is tuna salad gluten-free? Tuna salad itself is typically gluten-free, but always check the labels of added ingredients like mayonnaise, mustards, or dressings to ensure they don’t contain gluten. Use gluten-free bread or crackers if serving with those.

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