Tuna and Onion Sandwich

The tuna and onion sandwich is a quick and tasty classic. An Italian variant could include fresh ingredients like tomato and basil for a Mediterranean touch. Here’s how to prepare a delicious Italian-style tuna and onion sandwich:

Ingredients

• 2 sandwiches (like ciabatta or baguette)
• 160 grams of canned tuna, drained
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
• 1 ripe tomato, sliced
• A few leaves of fresh basil
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Extra virgin olive oil to taste
• Lemon juice (optional)

Preparation

1. First, split the sandwiches in half without completely separating them, and if desired, toast them slightly.
2. In a bowl, mix the drained tuna with the mayonnaise. If you like, you can add a pinch of lemon juice for a touch of freshness.
3. Season the sliced red onion with a pinch of salt and a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. If you prefer a milder taste, you can also slice the onions and soak them in water with vinegar for about 15 minutes, then drain.
4. Spread the tuna and mayonnaise mixture on the bottom of the sandwiches.
5. Add the tomato slices on top of the tuna and season lightly with salt and pepper.
6. Add the sliced onions and fresh basil leaves.
7. Close the sandwiches and press lightly to make the ingredients stick.

If you like, you can add other vegetables to taste such as arugula or lettuce for a crunchy note, or some slices of buffalo mozzarella for a creamier and typically Italian result.

Little curiosity:

The tuna and onion sandwich is a quick and versatile dish, suitable for a packed lunch or an outdoor picnic. Adding basil and tomato turns the simple sandwich into a sort of mini pan bagnat, a classic of the Ligurian and French Riviera.