TUNA MELT

### **Instructions:**

1. **Prepare the Tuna Salad:**
In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard (if using), sweet relish or chopped pickles (if desired), and finely chopped red onion (optional). Stir everything together until well-mixed. Season with salt and pepper to taste. This tuna salad forms the base of your melt and can be adjusted to your preferences—add more mayo for creaminess or more mustard for tang.

2. **Assemble the Sandwich:**
Spread a thin layer of butter on one side of each slice of bread. The buttered sides will be the outside of the sandwich, which will help create that crispy, golden texture once grilled.

On the unbuttered side of one slice of bread, generously spread the prepared tuna salad. Top the tuna salad with a good amount of shredded cheese—cheddar is a classic choice, but Swiss or mozzarella also work wonderfully for a different flavor profile. Place the other slice of bread on top, buttered side facing out.

3. **Grill the Tuna Melt:**
Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat. Once hot, place the sandwich in the skillet and cook for 3–4 minutes on one side, or until the bread is golden brown and crispy. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 3–4 minutes on the other side, pressing down slightly to ensure even browning and that the cheese melts beautifully inside.

For a perfectly melted sandwich, you can cover the pan with a lid for the last minute of cooking. This helps trap heat and ensures the cheese melts completely without over-browning the bread.

4. **Serve and Enjoy:**
Once both sides are golden and crispy, and the cheese has melted, remove the sandwich from the skillet. Let it cool for a minute before cutting it in half. Garnish with fresh parsley or dill if you like, and serve with your favorite side, such as a small salad, potato chips, or a cup of soup.

### **Variations:**

– **Veggie Tuna Melt:** Add sliced tomatoes, avocado, or even sautéed spinach to your sandwich for extra flavor and nutrition. These additions provide freshness and a slight crunch to balance the creamy tuna salad and melted cheese.

– **Spicy Tuna Melt:** If you love heat, add a few dashes of hot sauce to the tuna salad or top the sandwich with sliced jalapeños before grilling. You can also use pepper jack cheese for an extra kick.

– **Open-Faced Tuna Melt:** For a lighter version, try an open-faced Tuna Melt. Place a slice of bread on a baking sheet, pile on the tuna salad, top with cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 5–10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

– **Tuna Melt with Egg:** For an indulgent twist, add a fried or scrambled egg to your Tuna Melt for a hearty breakfast or brunch option.

### **Why Tuna Melt?**

The Tuna Melt is a nostalgic comfort food that combines the protein-packed goodness of tuna with the rich, creamy texture of melted cheese. Tuna is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids and protein, making this sandwich not only delicious but also nutritious. The addition of mayo adds moisture and creaminess, while the cheese provides that warm, melty perfection that makes the Tuna Melt irresistible.

The crispy, golden-brown bread complements the savory tuna and cheese filling, providing the perfect contrast in texture. Whether you’re making it for a quick meal or preparing a satisfying lunch to share, the Tuna Melt is sure to please.

### **Storage Tips:**

– **Leftover Tuna Salad:** If you have leftover tuna salad, it can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. When ready to enjoy, simply make another Tuna Melt or serve the tuna salad over greens or crackers.

– **Storing Grilled Tuna Melt:** Grilled Tuna Melts are best enjoyed fresh, as the bread can lose its crispiness. However, if you need to store one, wrap it tightly in foil and refrigerate for up to 1 day. To reheat, place it in a toaster oven or skillet to restore some of the crispiness.

### **Conclusion:**

The Tuna Melt is a timeless comfort food that offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick lunch or looking to elevate your standard tuna salad sandwich, the Tuna Melt is sure to hit the spot. With endless variations and customizations, it’s easy to make this classic your own. So grab your ingredients, heat up your skillet, and enjoy a delicious, cheesy, and crispy Tuna Melt today!