English Muffin Tuna Melts Recipe

Dive into the delightful world of English muffin tuna melts. This treat combines the savory charm of albacore tuna and the melting goodness of Swiss cheese, layered on a warm and crispy English muffin. The optional quick pickled veggies add a crunchy, tangy element that balances the richness of the melt. Perfect for a quick lunch, dinner or snack anytime.

Photos of English Muffin Tuna Melts Recipe

Most ingredients for this recipe are commonly found at home, but there are a few you might need to search for. Albacore tuna, which has a firm, steak-like texture and mild flavor, could be the one you might not have in your pantry. Swiss cheese is another, known for its distinctive holes and smooth, melting properties. For the quick pickled veggies, ensure you have pickle juice, which is usually leftover in pickle jars.

Ingredients Required for English Muffin Tuna Melts

Carrot: Adds a crunchy texture and a sweet, earthy flavor to the pickled veggies.

Radishes: Provides a peppery taste and a nice crunch to the pickled veggies.

Pickle: Brings a tangy flavor and crunchy texture.

Pickle juice: Gives the pickled veggies their characteristic tangy flavor.

Celery: Adds a nice crunch and a fresh taste to the tuna mix.

Red onion: Provides a sweet and spicy flavor.

Red Pepper: Adds a touch of sweetness and a pop of color.

Lemon: Brings a refreshing tang.

Albacore Tuna: The star of the dish, offering a meaty texture and mild flavor.

Salt and pepper: Seasoning to enhance all the other flavors.

Mayonnaise: Binds the tuna mix together and adds creaminess.

English muffins: The crunchy and hearty base for the tuna melt.

Swiss cheese: Melts beautifully, offering a creamy, nutty flavor.

One reader, Dorian Earnest says:

This English muffin tuna melts recipe is a game-changer! The combination of flaky tuna, creamy mayo, and gooey Swiss cheese on a toasty English muffin is pure perfection. The pickled veggies add a delightful crunch. It's a quick, easy, and delicious meal that's become a family favorite in no time!

Dorian Earnest

Techniques for Making the Perfect Tuna Melt

Pickled veggies: Quick pickling vegetables involves slicing the carrots, radishes, and pickles, then combining them with pickle juice to marinate. This adds a tangy and crunchy element to the tuna melts.

Tuna salad mix: This involves mixing together minced celery, onion, red pepper, salt, pepper, and albacore tuna, then folding in the mayonnaise to create a creamy and flavorful tuna salad.

Assembling the tuna melts: After preparing the tuna salad mix, it needs to be spread onto the English muffin halves, topped with Swiss cheese, and then baked until the cheese is melted and the muffins are browned around the edges.

Serving the tuna melts: The tuna melts should be served warm, ideally with the pickled veggies on the side for a refreshing contrast.

How To Make English Muffin Tuna Melts

Canned tuna is tossed with veggies and mayo to make these delicious tuna melts. They’re topped with cheese, then baked onto creamy goodness!

Preparation: 15 minutes

Cooking: 15 minutes

Total: 30 minutes

Serves:

Ingredients

For Quick Pickled Veggies:

1medium carrot
5radishes
½pickle
4tbsppickle juice

For Tuna Melts:

1celery stalk,minced
¼cupred onion,minced
2tbspred pepper,minced
½lemon,juiced
10ozalbacore tuna,(2 cans), oil or water packed
⅛tspsalt
⅛tspfreshly ground black pepper
⅓cupmayonnaise
4whole english muffins
8slicesSwiss cheese

Instructions

Pickled Veggies:

Peel and slice the carrot in half down its length and then into thin half-coins. Slice the radishes in half and then slice into half-coins as well. Do the same with the pickle.
Stir the vegetables together with 3 tablespoons of pickle juice to coat. Set aside for a few minutes. Taste, and add more pickle juice if needed.

Tuna Melts:

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees F.
In a medium bowl, stir together minced celery, onion, red pepper, salt, pepper, and tuna. Fold in the mayo last.
Spread out English muffin halves on a baking sheet. Add half a slice of Swiss cheese to the bottom of each muffin. Top each muffin with about 2 tablespoons of tuna salad mix. Top with the second half of cheese.
Bake the tuna melts for 12 to 15 minutes until muffins are browned around the edges and the cheese is melted.
Serve while warm with pickled veggies on the side, and enjoy!

Nutrition

Calories: 311.46kcal
Fat: 18.69g
Saturated Fat: 6.63g
Monounsaturated Fat: 5.14g
Polyunsaturated Fat: 6.03g
Carbohydrates: 16.38g
Fiber: 1.97g
Sugar: 1.78g
Protein: 19.70g
Cholesterol: 40.50mg
Sodium: 328.63mg
Calcium: 282.43mg
Potassium: 265.14mg
Iron: 1.21mg
Vitamin A: 131.84µg
Vitamin C: 6.98mg

Pro Tip for Elevating Your Tuna Melt Game

To ensure your tuna melts are not soggy, toast the English muffins slightly before adding the tuna salad and cheese. This will create a barrier that prevents the moisture from the tuna salad from seeping into the muffin. Also, using a good quality, thick-sliced Swiss cheese will provide a better melt and richer flavor.

Time-Saving Tips for Preparing English Muffin Tuna Melts

Prep ahead: Prepare the pickled veggies and tuna salad mix the day before to save time on the day of making the tuna melts.

Use pre-shredded cheese: Opt for pre-shredded cheese to save time on grating and reduce prep work.

Double the batch: Make a larger batch of tuna salad mix and pickled veggies to have leftovers for quick and easy meals throughout the week.

Multitask: While the tuna melts are baking, use that time to clean up the kitchen or prepare a simple side salad to serve with the melts.

Substitute Ingredients For English Muffin Tuna Melts Recipe

english muffins - Substitute with bagels: Bagels can provide a similar chewy texture and can hold the tuna mixture and cheese just like English muffins.
albacore tuna - Substitute with canned salmon: Canned salmon can be used as a substitute for albacore tuna, providing a similar flaky texture and a slightly different flavor profile.
swiss cheese - Substitute with cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese can be used as a substitute for Swiss cheese, providing a rich and slightly sharper flavor to complement the tuna melts.
mayonnaise - Substitute with Greek yogurt: Greek yogurt can be used as a healthier substitute for mayonnaise, providing a creamy texture and tangy flavor to the tuna mixture.
red onion - Substitute with shallots: Shallots can be used as a substitute for red onion, providing a milder and slightly sweeter flavor to the tuna mixture.
celery - Substitute with fennel: Fennel can be used as a substitute for celery, providing a similar crunchy texture and a hint of anise flavor to the tuna mixture.
red pepper - Substitute with yellow pepper: Yellow pepper can be used as a substitute for red pepper, providing a slightly sweeter flavor and vibrant color to the tuna mixture.
lemon juice - Substitute with white wine vinegar: White wine vinegar can be used as a substitute for lemon juice, providing a tangy and acidic flavor to the tuna mixture.
salt - Substitute with garlic powder: Garlic powder can be used as a substitute for salt, providing a savory flavor to the tuna mixture without adding extra sodium.
black pepper - Substitute with white pepper: White pepper can be used as a substitute for black pepper, providing a milder and slightly earthy flavor to the tuna mixture.

Presentation Ideas for Tuna Melts on English Muffins

Elevate the tuna salad: Create a visually appealing presentation by shaping the tuna salad into quenelles or using a ring mold for a refined look.
Garnish with microgreens: Add a pop of color and freshness to the plate by delicately placing a few vibrant microgreens on top of the tuna melts.
Plate with precision: Carefully arrange the pickled veggies on the side of the plate, ensuring they are neatly stacked for an elegant touch.
Utilize negative space: Embrace the beauty of simplicity by allowing some negative space on the plate, highlighting the vibrant colors and textures of the dish.
Incorporate edible flowers: Introduce a touch of sophistication by incorporating edible flowers as a garnish, adding a subtle floral note to the overall presentation.
Consider the plate shape: Choose a plate that complements the colors of the dish and allows the tuna melts and pickled veggies to stand out beautifully.
Highlight the cheese melt: Ensure the cheese on the tuna melts is perfectly melted and slightly golden, creating an enticing visual appeal.
Use a drizzle of sauce: Add a drizzle of a complementary sauce around the plate to enhance the overall presentation and provide a flavor boost.
Emphasize symmetry: Arrange the components of the dish with precision, creating a visually balanced and aesthetically pleasing presentation.
Add a touch of gold leaf: For an extra touch of luxury, delicately place a small piece of edible gold leaf on the plate to elevate the overall presentation.

Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Tuna Melts

Cutting board: A flat, sturdy surface used for cutting and preparing ingredients.
Chef's knife: A versatile, all-purpose knife used for chopping, slicing, and dicing various ingredients.
Mixing bowl: A deep bowl used for combining ingredients and mixing batters or salads.
Can opener: A tool used to open canned goods by cutting the lid off the can.
Baking sheet: A flat, metal sheet used for baking items such as cookies, pastries, and other baked goods.
Oven: A kitchen appliance used for baking, roasting, and heating food.
Food processor: A versatile kitchen appliance used for chopping, slicing, and pureeing ingredients.
Grater: A tool used to grate or shred ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, or citrus zest.
Measuring cups and spoons: Tools used to accurately measure ingredients for recipes.
Spatula: A kitchen tool with a broad, flat, flexible blade used for lifting, spreading, or flipping ingredients.
Cheese grater: A tool specifically designed for grating cheese into fine or coarse shreds.
Baking dish: A deep, oven-safe dish used for baking casseroles, desserts, and other dishes.
Aluminum foil: A thin, pliable sheet of aluminum used for covering dishes, wrapping food, and lining pans for easy cleanup.
Whisk: A kitchen tool used for blending, whipping, and beating ingredients together.
Measuring scale: A tool used to accurately measure the weight of ingredients for precise cooking and baking.

Reheating Leftover Tuna Melts

Here are the best methods for reheating leftover english muffin tuna melts:

Oven method: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the leftover tuna melts on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the english muffins are crispy. This method ensures that the tuna melts are evenly heated and the bread regains its crunch.
Toaster oven method: If you have a toaster oven, this is a quick and easy way to reheat your tuna melts. Set the toaster oven to 350°F (175°C) and place the tuna melts directly on the rack. Heat for 5-7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and the muffins are crispy. Keep an eye on them to prevent burning.
Microwave method: While not ideal, if you're in a hurry, you can reheat your tuna melts in the microwave. Place the tuna melt on a microwave-safe plate and heat on high for 30-45 seconds. If the cheese hasn't melted sufficiently, continue heating in 15-second intervals until desired temperature is reached. Note that the english muffin may become slightly soggy using this method.
Stovetop method: Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the tuna melt in the skillet and cover with a lid. Heat for 2-3 minutes, or until the bottom of the muffin is crispy and the cheese starts to melt. Flip the tuna melt and heat for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is fully melted and the muffin is heated through.

Interesting Trivia About Tuna Melts

The recipe for English muffin tuna melts is a delicious and versatile dish that can be customized to suit individual tastes. It's a great way to use up leftover vegetables and add a pop of flavor with the quick pickled veggies. The combination of the creamy tuna salad and melted Swiss cheese on toasted English muffins creates a satisfying and comforting meal. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner and can be easily adapted with different ingredients. It's a convenient and tasty option for busy days.

Budget-Friendly: Are English Muffin Tuna Melts Economical?

This English muffin tuna melts recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The ingredients, such as tuna, vegetables, and cheese, are affordable and readily available. The use of pantry staples like mayonnaise and pickles also adds to its cost-effectiveness. With a Verdict rating of 8, this recipe offers a delicious and budget-friendly meal option. The approximate cost for a household of 4 people is around $12-$15, making it an economical choice for a satisfying and flavorful meal.

Are English Muffin Tuna Melts Healthy?

The english muffin tuna melts recipe, while tasty, has some aspects that could be considered unhealthy. Here's a breakdown:

The recipe includes processed ingredients like mayonnaise and swiss cheese, which can be high in saturated fats and sodium.
Albacore tuna, although a good source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, can contain higher levels of mercury compared to other types of tuna.
English muffins are made from refined flour, which lacks fiber and nutrients found in whole grain alternatives.
The addition of pickled vegetables provides some vitamins and minerals, but the pickling process can increase the sodium content.

To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:

Swap the regular mayonnaise for a low-fat or avocado-based alternative to reduce saturated fats.
Use a mix of light and dark tuna to lower the overall mercury content while still maintaining the health benefits of omega-3s.
Opt for whole grain or sprouted english muffins to increase the fiber and nutrient content.
Reduce the amount of cheese used or choose a low-fat variety to decrease the saturated fat content.
Include more fresh vegetables in the tuna salad mix, such as diced tomatoes, cucumbers, or leafy greens, to boost the vitamin and mineral content.
Experiment with different herbs and spices, like dill or paprika, to add flavor without relying on salt.
Prepare the pickled vegetables using less salt or a salt substitute to reduce the sodium content.

Editor's Opinion: Thoughts on This Tuna Melt Recipe

The English muffin tuna melts recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The addition of quick-pickled veggies adds a refreshing and tangy element to the dish, complementing the creamy tuna salad and gooey melted Swiss cheese. The recipe's simplicity makes it accessible for home cooks, while the use of quality ingredients elevates the overall experience. The balance of savory, tangy, and creamy elements creates a satisfying and comforting meal. It's a versatile dish that can be enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a tasty snack. Overall, this recipe offers a delicious twist on a classic favorite.

Enhance Your English Muffin Tuna Melts Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:

Roasted Garlic Parmesan Asparagus: Tender asparagus spears roasted to perfection with a savory garlic parmesan topping.

Honey Sriracha Brussels Sprouts: Crispy Brussels sprouts tossed in a sweet and spicy honey sriracha glaze for a flavorful kick.

Balsamic Glazed Carrots with Thyme: Sweet and tangy carrots roasted with a balsamic glaze and fresh thyme for a burst of flavor.

Alternative Recipes Similar to English Muffin Tuna Melts

Savory Stuffed Bell Peppers: Use a mixture of ground beef, rice, and seasonings to stuff bell peppers, then bake until tender. Top with cheese and serve hot.

Mango Salsa Chicken: Marinate chicken in a flavorful mango salsa, then grill or bake until cooked through. Serve with extra salsa on top for a burst of fruity flavor.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto: Sauté mushrooms and onions, then stir in arborio rice and slowly add broth until creamy and tender. Finish with a sprinkle of parmesan cheese for a rich and satisfying dish.

Appetizers and Desserts to Complement English Muffin Tuna Melts

Appetizers:

Stuffed Mushrooms: Delight your guests with these savory stuffed mushrooms, filled with a flavorful mixture of cream cheese, garlic, and herbs. The perfect bite-sized appetizer to kick off any meal.

Caprese Skewers: Impress your guests with these elegant caprese skewers, featuring juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh mozzarella, and fragrant basil, drizzled with a balsamic glaze. A refreshing and colorful start to any gathering.

Desserts:

Decadent Chocolate Mousse: Indulge in a rich and creamy chocolate mousse, topped with a dollop of whipped cream and a sprinkle of cocoa powder. The smooth texture and intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any sweet tooth.

Velvety Lemon Cheesecake: Savor the tangy and creamy goodness of a velvety lemon cheesecake, with a buttery graham cracker crust. Each bite is a burst of citrusy flavor that is both refreshing and satisfying.

Why trust this English Muffin Tuna Melts Recipe:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on the classic tuna melt, featuring albacore tuna mixed with crunchy celery, zesty lemon juice, and creamy mayonnaise. The addition of pickled veggies provides a tangy contrast, while the use of swiss cheese adds a rich and savory element. The meticulous attention to detail, from the quick pickling of the carrot and radishes to the careful assembly and baking process, ensures a flavorful and satisfying dish. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients and the thoughtful preparation to elevate your tuna melt experience.

Have you tried making these English Muffin Tuna Melts? Share your experience and discuss the recipe with fellow cooking enthusiasts in the Recipe Sharing forum!

FAQ:

Can I use canned tuna instead of albacore tuna?

Yes, you can use canned tuna instead of albacore tuna. Just make sure to drain the canned tuna well before using it in the recipe.

Can I use a different type of cheese for the tuna melts?

Absolutely! Feel free to use your favorite cheese for the tuna melts. Cheddar, mozzarella, or provolone would all work well.

Can I make the tuna salad mix ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tuna salad mix ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. Just assemble the tuna melts when you're ready to enjoy them.

Can I skip the pickled veggies?

Of course! The pickled veggies are optional and can be skipped if you prefer. The tuna melts are delicious on their own, but the pickled veggies add a nice tangy crunch.

Can I use a toaster oven to make the tuna melts?

Yes, you can use a toaster oven to make the tuna melts. Simply adjust the temperature and cooking time as needed based on your toaster oven's settings.