Classic Tuna Sandwich with Dill Pickles and Fresh Herbs Recipe
This classic tuna sandwich recipe features tuna in oil, enhanced with tangy pickle juice, crisp celery, fresh green onion, and flavorful dill, all brought together with smooth whole egg mayonnaise and mustard for a delicious, herbaceous, and crunchy sandwich filling. Perfectly spread on your favorite bread with butter and crisp lettuce for a satisfying meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 sandwiches or 6 medium bread rolls
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Western
Ingredients
Tuna Sandwich Filling:
- 425g / 15 oz canned tuna in oil, drained
- 3/4 cup whole egg mayonnaise or Kewpie mayo
- 3/4 cup finely diced celery (approx. 1 stalk, cut in 4 lengthways, then diced)
- 5 tbsp finely chopped dill pickle
- 2 tbsp liquid from pickle jar
- 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
- 3 tbsp finely chopped dill (or parsley or basil)
- 1/3 cup finely sliced green onion (~2 stems)
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For Sandwich Assembly:
- 8 pieces butter lettuce (2 per sandwich)
- Salted butter, for spreading
- 8 slices bread or 4 medium rolls
Instructions
- Prepare the Filling: Combine all tuna filling ingredients in a bowl. Mix thoroughly with a wooden spoon, breaking up the tuna to achieve a fairly smooth texture. The celery and pickles should be gently crushed to release their flavors and help meld the ingredients together.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Butter the slices of bread or rolls. Place 2 pieces of butter lettuce on the bread for each sandwich. Divide the tuna filling evenly among 4 sandwiches (or adjust quantity to bread size). Complete the sandwich by placing the other slice of bread on top and serve immediately for best freshness.
Notes
- Tuna in oil provides better flavor than tuna in water, but the recipe works well with either. Canned salmon can also be substituted.
- Whole egg mayonnaise offers a smoother and less vinegary flavor compared to regular mayo. Brands like Hellmann’s and Kewpie are recommended.
- Use standard dill pickles for best flavor (not sweet or spicy varieties). Pickled cucumbers work as a softer alternative.
- Green onion can be substituted with shallots or finely minced red onion (approx. 1/4 cup).
- Choose any bread you like, from simple white sandwich bread to artisan varieties.
- The filling can be stored up to 3 days in an airtight container; stir before use if watery. Assembled sandwiches are best eaten fresh. For longer freshness, layer lettuce on the bread as a moisture barrier and don’t skip the butter.
