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Ella Cooks

The Tunacado Sandwich: A Crispy, Creamy, and Flavor-Packed Delight

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If you’ve spent any time scrolling through food videos on TikTok, Instagram, or YouTube, you’ve likely come across the Tunacado Sandwich—a viral, ultra-crispy, creamy, and incredibly flavorful sandwich that has taken the internet by storm. Originally made famous by Joe & The Juice, a trendy café chain known for its fresh, health-conscious food, this sandwich combines tuna mousse, avocado, crispy seeded bread, and a vibrant layer of pesto. The result? A gourmet, café-style sandwich that’s as nutritious as it is addictive.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 5 minutes
Servings: 1
Course: Snack
Cuisine: American
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients
  

Ingredients:
For the sandwich:
  • 2 slices thin seeded multigrain bread (or preferred bread choice)
  • ½ ripe avocado thinly sliced
  • 2 tbsp basil pesto
For the Tuna Mousse
  • 1 can High-quality tuna in olive oil drained
  • 2 tbsp Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt for a lighter option
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard for a tangy kick
  • 1 tbsp Lemon juice adds brightness
  • Salt & black pepper to taste
Optional Add-Ins:
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Red onion slivers
  • Arugula or spinach for extra greens

Equipment

  • Toaster, pan, or sandwich press To achieve the signature crispy bread.
  • Knife & cutting board For slicing avocado and assembling the sandwich.
  • Fork or food processor For making the smooth tuna mousse.
  • Spoon For spreading pesto and avocado.

Method
 

Instructions:
    Toast the Bread for Maximum Crunch
    1. Heat a pan or sandwich press on medium heat.
    2. Place the bread directly onto the hot surface (no oil or butter needed).
    3. Toast until golden brown and crispy—about 2-3 minutes per side.
    Prepare the Tuna Mousse
    1. Drain the tuna and place it in a bowl.
    2. Add mayo, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
    3. Mash with a fork until smooth, or blend in a food processor for an ultra-silky texture.
    Assemble the Sandwich
    1. Spread pesto on one side of each slice of bread.
    2. Layer on thin avocado slices.
    3. Spread a generous amount of tuna mousse on top.
    4. Close the sandwich and gently press together.
    Slice & Enjoy!
    1. Cut diagonally for a café-style presentation.
    2. Serve immediately for the best texture.

    Nutrition

    Calories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 28gFat: 30gSaturated Fat: 3.5gSodium: 600mgFiber: 6gSugar: 2g

    Notes

    Customizations & Variations
    ✔ Make It Spicy – Add chili flakes or sriracha for extra heat.
    ✔ Add Crunch – Toss in sliced cucumbers or shredded lettuce.
    ✔ Go Dairy-Free – Swap pesto with a dairy-free version or hummus.
    ✔ Try a Wrap – Use a whole wheat wrap instead of bread for a lower-carb option.
    Storage & Meal Prep Tips
    Can you make it ahead of time?
    Yes, but store the components separately to prevent sogginess.
    Keep the tuna mousse in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
    Toast the bread fresh for the best texture.
    Reheating Tips:
    If your sandwich gets soft, re-toast it in a pan for 1-2 minutes per side.

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