Vegetarian Tuna Panini

Dive into the irresistible flavors of this Vegetarian Tuna Panini, a plant-based twist on a classic comfort food favorite! Made with protein-packed mashed chickpeas, creamy vegetarian-friendly mayonnaise, zesty Dijon mustard, and a tangy dash of lemon juice, this "tuna" salad is perfectly seasoned with chopped celery, red onion, and optional capers for added texture and flavor. Layered on thick sourdough bread and stacked high with juicy tomato slices, fresh spinach leaves, and melty vegetarian cheddar cheese, this hearty sandwich is pan-grilled to golden perfection. Quick and easy to prepare in under 20 minutes, this panini is a satisfying lunch or dinner choice that’s ideal for vegetarians and anyone craving a delicious, meat-free alternative. Serve it warm with your favorite side salad or chips for a meal that’s as comforting as it is wholesome.

Nutriscore Rating: 71/100

Prep Time:10 mins

Cook Time:8 mins

Total Time:18 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 1 cup Canned chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
• 2 tablespoons Mayonnaise (vegetarian-friendly)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons Celery (finely chopped)
• 2 tablespoons Red onion (finely chopped)
• 1 teaspoon Capers (optional, chopped)
• 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
• 0.25 teaspoon Salt
• 0.25 teaspoon Black pepper
• 4 slices Sourdough bread (or any thick sandwich bread)
• 1 medium Tomato (sliced)
• 1 cup Spinach leaves (fresh)
• 4 slices Cheddar cheese (or any vegetarian-friendly cheese, sliced)
• 1 tablespoon Olive oil or butter (for brushing)

Directions

Step 1

In a mixing bowl, mash the chickpeas with a fork or potato masher until they are mostly broken down but still have some texture.

Step 2

Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, capers (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the mashed chickpeas. Mix well to combine. Taste and adjust seasoning, if needed. This is your vegetarian 'tuna' salad.

Step 3

Spread an even layer of the chickpea 'tuna' salad onto two slices of bread.

Step 4

Top the 'tuna' salad with sliced tomato, fresh spinach leaves, and a slice of cheese. Place the remaining slices of bread on top to form sandwiches.

Step 5

Brush the outside of the bread with olive oil or butter to prepare for grilling.

Step 6

Preheat a panini press or a skillet over medium heat.

Step 7

Place the sandwiches on the panini press or skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, pressing gently, until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.

Step 8

Remove the panini from the heat and allow them to cool slightly before slicing in half. Serve warm and enjoy your Vegetarian Tuna Panini!

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(829.7g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	1778.4

Total Fat 81.2g	0%
Saturated Fat 30.2g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 129.5mg	0%
Sodium 3404.2mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 189.8g	0%
Dietary Fiber 23.6g	0%
Total Sugars 17.3g
Protein 68.8g	0%

Vitamin D 24IU	0%
Calcium 1037.1mg	0%
Iron 11.0mg	0%
Potassium 1441.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 41.4%

Protein: 15.6%

Carbs: 43.0%