Panera Tuna Salad Recipe - Easy Meal Recipe

Name: Panera Tuna Salad Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4
Ingredients: 8 slices of Whole Wheat Honey Bread; Thinly sliced Red Onion Rings; Sliced Ripe Tomatoes; 1 can of drained Albacore Tuna; 1 1/2 teaspoons of Creamy Mayo; 1 teaspoon of Sweet Pickle Relish; 3/4 teaspoon of Spicy Dijon Mustard; A dash of Lemon Juice; A pinch of Smoked Paprika; Salt and freshly cracked Black Pepper, to taste

Last Updated on March 21, 2025

When you think about enjoying a delightful dish of Panera Tuna Salad, it’s easy to overlook the side options that can elevate your meal. The creamy texture of the tuna salad pairs beautifully with a light, crisp green salad adorned with seasonal veggies.

You could also reach for whole-grain crackers; their crunch is an excellent contrast to the smoothness of the salad. Alternatively, consider pairing it with fresh fruit like grapes or sliced apples, which grants a refreshing contrast.

For those looking for a more filling side, a warm bowl of tomato soup might just be the perfect comfort food. You’re not just eating; you’re creating a mini feast!

What is Panera Tuna Salad?

Panera Tuna Salad is a classic rendition of the classic tuna salad, known for its fresh ingredients and creamy consistency.

It typically consists of tuna mixed with mayonnaise, relish, and a medley of spices. It’s often served on whole-grain bread or a bed of leafy greens, making it a wholesome option for lunch or dinner.

Panera Bread, a go-to spot for many food lovers, has popularized this dish by ensuring its tuna salad embodies freshness and quality. Have a quick bite, and you’ll realize why it has gained a dedicated following.

What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Tuna Salads?

The uniqueness of Panera’s Tuna Salad lies in its balance of flavors and textures. Unlike other recipes that might overdo it with heavy seasonings, Panera opts for a simpler, fresher approach. The use of high-quality albacore tuna ensures each bite is tender.

The addition of spicy Dijon mustard and a dash of lemon juice introduces a delightful tanginess that intrigues the palate, while sweet pickle relish adds a subtle sweetness.

In addition to these flavor nuances, using whole grain bread in a sandwich adds a delightful crunch and health benefits. This tuna salad isn’t a heavy sandwich; it’s a refreshing taste of summer in each mouthful.

How Does It Taste Like?

If you’ve ever savored a spoonful of Panera’s Tuna Salad, you already know that the first bite is like a harmonious dance of flavors. The creaminess from the mayo is balanced with the zesty notes from mustard and the sweetness from relish.

Each ingredient contributes beautifully, creating a rounded, satisfying dish. You get savory, tangy, and even slightly sweet notes, all in one.

Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish

8 slices of Whole Wheat Honey Bread
Thinly sliced Red Onion Rings
Sliced Ripe Tomatoes
1 can of drained Albacore Tuna
1 ½ teaspoons of Creamy Mayo
1 teaspoon of Sweet Pickle Relish
¾ teaspoon of Spicy Dijon Mustard
A dash of Lemon Juice
A pinch of Smoked Paprika
Salt and freshly cracked Black Pepper, to taste

Step by Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients

Begin by gathering all your ingredients. This initial step may seem simple, but it sets the tone for the entire cooking process. Drain the albacore tuna and set it aside in a large bowl. Make sure to give it a good squeeze to release excess liquid.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In the same bowl, add the creamy mayo, sweet pickle relish, spicy Dijon mustard, a dash of lemon juice, and a sprinkle of smoked paprika.

Season with salt and fresh black pepper. Combine these ingredients with the tuna using a fork, breaking up any chunks of tuna while maintaining some texture.

Step 3: Add Fresh Ingredients

Now, it’s time to introduce the fresh elements. Gently fold in the sliced red onion rings and ripe tomato slices. You want these to be mixed in without becoming mushy.

Step 4: Taste and Adjust Seasonings

This is where you can fine-tune your salad. Take a small taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Maybe it needs a touch more mustard? Or perhaps a spritz more lemon? Trust your instincts.

Step 5: Assemble Your Sandwich

Lay out the whole wheat honey bread slices. Spread the tuna salad generously over four slices, then top with another slice of bread. You can cut them into halves or quarters, depending on how you like them to be served.

Tips & Tricks On Making Panera Tuna Salad

Use Quality Tuna: Look for albacore tuna. It’s milder and has a better texture than chunk light.
Don’t Overmix: For that appealing texture, mix gently. Overmixing can lead to mushy tuna salad.
Chill Before Serving: This helps the flavors meld together. Refrigerate for about 30 minutes.
Experiment with Add-ins: You can toss in capers or diced celery for extra crunch.
Storage: Always use an airtight container to keep your tuna salad fresh.

How Do I Store This Dish?

To store leftover Panera Tuna Salad, promptly transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for about 2-3 days. Always check for any off-odors before consuming, as seafood can spoil quickly.

Conclusion

In summary, Panera Tuna Salad is not just a meal; it’s an experience that delights your taste buds with every bite.

The balance of flavors and fresh ingredients sets it apart and offers a satisfying, nutritious choice for any meal. With easy preparation and endless variations to explore, you’ll likely find yourself returning to this recipe again and again.

So, why wait? Grab your ingredients and whip up this deliciously creamy salad. It’s not just lunchtime; it’s your moment to savor something special!

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Print Recipe

Panera Tuna Salad Recipe – Easy Meal Recipe

Author: Mary Siegel Cuisine: American Courses: Appetizer & Side Dish

Difficulty: Intermediate Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 10 mins Total Time 15 mins

Servings: 4 Calories: 217 kcal

Best Season: Suitable throughout the year

Description

As someone who takes great delight in nutritious food, I look for recipes that are not only easy to prepare but also pack a punch in flavor. Enter the Panera Tuna Salad—simple yet sophisticated.

This dish is a wonderful blend of tuna, creamy goodness, and a hint of zing. After trying it, I couldn’t help but wonder what makes Panera’s take on tuna salad stand out from the rest.

In this article, I will guide you through its origins, how it’s prepared, what makes it unique, and of course, how to store it for later. Let’s dive deep into the marvelous world of Panera Tuna Salad!