Description
A bold Italian-American fusion sandwich layered with savory roast beef, oil-packed tuna, sweet caramelized onions, and fresh herbs on rustic ciabatta or focaccia. Inspired by Buona’s Chicago-style twist, this Genovese-style recipe delivers layered flavor in every bite.
Ingredients
1 can (5–6 oz) olive oil–packed tuna (preferably Genova, Ortiz, or Tonnino)
6–8 slices roast beef (deli or home-cooked)
1 large yellow onion, thinly sliced
2 tbsp olive oil (divided)
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
1 clove garlic (for bread rub)
½ cup arugula or fresh basil
2 ciabatta or focaccia rolls, sliced
Salt & cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional: aioli, pesto, or anchovy mayo for spread
Instructions
1. Caramelize the onions: Heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium-low. Add sliced onions, season with salt and pepper, and sauté until soft and golden (15–20 minutes). Optional: Deglaze with a splash of white wine for added depth.
2. Prepare tuna: Drain tuna and break into flakes with a fork in a bowl. Add parsley, lemon zest, and black pepper. Mix gently to preserve texture.
3. Warm the beef (optional): Lightly reheat beef slices in a pan with a touch of olive oil and rosemary, just until warm and aromatic.
4. Toast the bread: Brush bread slices with olive oil and toast until golden. Rub with garlic clove for extra flavor.
5. Assemble: Spread sauce (aioli or pesto) on the bottom bread. Layer tuna, beef, caramelized onions, and arugula. Top with the second slice.
6. Press & serve: Gently press the sandwich, let it rest for a minute, then slice and serve warm or room temperature.
Notes
For a spicy kick, stir Calabrian chili paste into the tuna.
Turn it into a grain bowl with the same toppings over farro or quinoa.
Swap arugula for microgreens for a milder flavor.
This sandwich travels well—wrap tightly for picnic or lunchbox use.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Sandwich / Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop / Assembly
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 sandwich
- Calories: 580–650 kcal
- Sugar: 4–6 g
- Sodium: 920–1100 mg
- Fat: 27–32 g
- Saturated Fat: 5–7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18–22 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 38–45 g
- Fiber: 3–5 g
- Protein: 36–42 g
- Cholesterol: 55–70 mg