Description
This Buona Beef Tuna Genovese copycat recipe brings together hearty deli-style tuna with fresh Italian ingredients like olive oil, capers, and herbs — all tucked into crusty ciabatta for a sandwich that tastes just like the original.
Ingredients
2 cans (5–6 oz) chunk-style tuna in olive oil, drained
2–3 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
2 tbsp capers (or 1–2 anchovy fillets for a deeper flavor)
1 small red onion or 2 shallots, finely minced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
½ tsp dried oregano
Salt & black pepper, to taste
2–3 ciabatta rolls or Italian sub rolls
Optional: Sliced tomatoes, fresh arugula, or provolone cheese
Instructions
1. Prepare the tuna mixture: In a medium bowl, combine tuna, olive oil, capers (or anchovies), red onion, parsley, basil, and oregano. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
2. Toast the bread: Slice ciabatta rolls lengthwise, brush lightly with olive oil, and toast until golden and slightly crisp.
3. Assemble the sandwich: Spread the tuna mixture generously on the toasted bread. Add optional toppings like tomatoes, arugula, or cheese.
4. Serve and enjoy: Press lightly, cut in half, and serve cold or at room temperature for the best flavor.
Notes
For a lighter version, substitute water-packed tuna and replace some olive oil with Greek yogurt.
Chill the tuna mixture for 30 minutes before assembling for a deeper, deli-style flavor.
Gluten-free rolls or lettuce wraps make this recipe adaptable for special diets.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Sandwich, Lunch
- Method: No-cook (with optional toasting)
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 690mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 40mg