Artichoke Tuna Melt on Toasted English Muffins
Indulge in a deliciously creamy and savory Artichoke Tuna Melt that elevates traditional comfort food. This recipe combines flaky albacore tuna with finely chopped artichoke hearts, zesty green onions, and a touch of lemon juice, all topped with gooey melted provolone or sharp cheddar cheese. Perfectly balanced with a hint of oregano and cayenne, this dish makes a delightful one-dish meal for two. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness with a crispy muffin base, making it the perfect lunch or light dinner option to share with someone special.
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
9
Ingredients
Ingredients
Artichoke hearts
1/2 cup (drained and finely chopped (optional))
Green onion
1/4 cup (sliced)
Lemon juice
1 tablespoon (freshly squeezed)
Olive oil
1 teaspoon (extra virgin)
Dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
Cayenne pepper
1/8 teaspoon (or to taste)
Albacore tuna
1 (6 ounce) can (lightly drained and flaked)
English muffins
2 (split and toasted)
Provolone cheese or Sharp cheddar cheese
6 tablespoons (grated)
Instructions
1
Preheat your broiler to high.
2
In a medium mixing bowl, combine the drained artichoke hearts (if using), sliced green onions, lemon juice, olive oil, dried oregano, and cayenne pepper. Mix well to ensure all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
3
Gently fold in the flaked tuna until the mixture is well combined.
4
Slice the English muffins in half and toast them until golden brown. Place them on a baking sheet, cut side facing up.
5
Spoon the tuna mixture evenly over each muffin half, allowing for a generous topping.
6
Sprinkle the grated cheese evenly over the tuna mixture on each muffin half.
7
Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for about 4 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges are golden brown.
8
Carefully remove from the oven and let cool for a minute before serving. Enjoy your delicious Tuna Melt with a side salad or simply on its own!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an Artichoke Tuna Melt on Toasted English Muffins?
It is a savory and creamy open-faced sandwich featuring albacore tuna, artichoke hearts, and melted cheese on a crispy English muffin.
What type of tuna is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for one 6-ounce can of albacore tuna, lightly drained and flaked for the best texture.
How do I prepare the artichoke hearts?
You should use 1/2 cup of artichoke hearts that have been drained and finely chopped before mixing with other ingredients.
Are the artichoke hearts mandatory?
Artichoke hearts are optional in this recipe, though they add a unique flavor and texture to the tuna melt.
What kind of cheese should I use?
The recipe suggests using 6 tablespoons of either grated provolone cheese or sharp cheddar cheese.
Do I need to toast the English muffins before adding the topping?
Yes, you should slice the English muffins in half and toast them until golden brown before adding the tuna mixture.
What is the purpose of lemon juice in this recipe?
One tablespoon of fresh lemon juice is used to provide a zesty brightness that balances the richness of the tuna and cheese.
How long does it take to broil the tuna melts?
It typically takes about 4 minutes under a high broiler for the cheese to become melted and bubbly.
Can I substitute the green onions?
Yes, if you do not have green onions, you can use finely chopped red onion or chives as a replacement.
Is this recipe spicy?
The recipe includes 1/8 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, which adds a subtle heat that can be adjusted to your preference.
What setting should my oven be on?
You should set your oven to the high broiler setting to melt the cheese and brown the edges of the muffins.
Can I use olive oil instead of mayonnaise?
This specific recipe uses one teaspoon of extra virgin olive oil rather than mayonnaise to bind the ingredients together.
How many servings does this recipe make?
This recipe makes enough for two people, utilizing two full English muffins split into four halves.
What dried herbs are included?
The recipe uses 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano to season the tuna mixture.
Can I use fresh oregano?
Yes, you can substitute fresh oregano, though you may want to increase the amount slightly as dried herbs are more concentrated.
What should I serve with an Artichoke Tuna Melt?
It pairs perfectly with a fresh side salad or can be enjoyed on its own as a light meal.
How do I prevent the muffins from getting soggy?
Toasting the English muffins until they are golden brown before adding the tuna mixture helps create a barrier against moisture.
Can I use different types of bread?
While English muffins provide a unique crunch, you can substitute sourdough or whole-grain bread if desired.
Is this recipe quick to make?
Yes, it is classified as a quick meal, requiring only a few minutes of prep and about 4 minutes of broiling.
How do I flake the tuna?
After draining the liquid, use a fork to gently break the tuna chunks into smaller, lighter flakes.
Can I make the tuna mixture in advance?
Yes, you can mix the tuna, artichokes, and spices ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator until you are ready to broil.
Can I use a toaster oven for this recipe?
Yes, a toaster oven with a broiler setting works perfectly for small batches of these tuna melts.
How do I know when the tuna melt is done?
The dish is ready when the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the edges of the muffin are golden brown.
What if I don't like cayenne pepper?
You can omit the cayenne pepper entirely or replace it with black pepper for a milder flavor.
Is this a good lunch option?
Yes, it is an ideal lunch or light dinner option that is both satisfying and easy to share.
Can I use frozen artichoke hearts?
Yes, but ensure they are completely thawed, drained, and patted dry before chopping and adding to the mix.
What is the best way to drain tuna?
Press the lid of the can into the tuna while holding it over the sink, or use a fine-mesh strainer.
Can I add other vegetables?
Finely diced bell peppers or celery would make excellent additions for extra crunch.
Should I use extra virgin olive oil?
Extra virgin olive oil is recommended for its superior flavor, which complements the artichokes and tuna.
How should I let the melts cool?
Let them rest for about one minute after removing them from the oven to allow the cheese to set slightly before serving.