Provençal Tuna Sandwich

Provençal Tuna Sandwich is a medium French recipe that serves 4. 550 calories per serving. Recipe by America's Test Kitchen on YouTube.

Prep: 30 min | Cook: 1 hr 7 min | Total: 1 hr 52 min

Cost: $10.95 total, $2.74 per serving

Ingredients

  • 1 medium Red Onion (sliced thin)
  • 1 clove Garlic (minced)
  • 3 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar
  • 1 large Tomato (sliced thin, drained on paper towel)
  • 1 piece Baguette (about 18 inches long, 3" wide, 2" tall; good-quality French baguette)
  • 0.33 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil (divided: 1/4 cup for salad, 2 tbsp for brushing bread, extra 2 tbsp for drizzle)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon Mustard
  • 0.5 cup Fresh Parsley (leaves and tender stems, loosely packed)
  • 2 tablespoons Fresh Marjoram Leaves
  • 3 tablespoons Capers (rinsed)
  • 3 fillets Anchovy Fillets (rinsed and patted dry)
  • 0.75 cup Niçoise Olives (pitted)
  • 2 6.5 oz jars Tuna in Oil (drained; high-quality canned tuna packed in oil)
  • 3 large Hard Boiled Eggs (peeled and sliced thin)
  • 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper (freshly ground)

Instructions

  1. Slice Onion and Mince Garlic

    Cut the red onion in half and slice it thin; mince one garlic clove.

    Time: PT5M

  2. Marinate Onion

    Place the sliced onion and minced garlic in a small bowl, add 3 Tbsp red wine vinegar, and toss. Let sit to soften.

    Time: PT5M

  3. Prepare Tomato

    Core the tomato, slice it thin, and lay the slices on a paper‑towel‑lined plate to drain excess moisture.

    Time: PT2M

  4. Hollow Out Baguette

    Slice the baguette lengthwise, keep the top piece intact, and scoop out the interior, leaving about a ¼‑inch border all around to form a boat.

    Time: PT5M

  5. Toast Baguette

    Place the hollowed baguette halves on a rimmed baking sheet and bake in a preheated 350°F oven until lightly golden.

    Time: PT5M

    Temperature: 350°F

  6. Make Olive‑Herb Salad

    In a food processor, combine ½ cup parsley, 2 Tbsp marjoram leaves, 3 Tbsp capers, 3 anchovy fillets, and ¾ cup pitted Niçoise olives. Pulse 10‑12 times until coarsely chopped.

    Time: PT5M

  7. Combine Salad with Onion Mixture

    Transfer the chopped olive mixture to the onion‑vinegar bowl. Add ¼ cup olive oil, 2 Tbsp Dijon mustard, and ¼ tsp freshly ground black pepper. Toss until evenly coated.

    Time: PT3M

  8. Oil the Bread Interior

    Brush the interior surfaces of the toasted baguette with about 2 Tbsp extra‑virgin olive oil (≈1 Tbsp per side).

    Time: PT2M

  9. Assemble the Sandwich

    Layer two‑thirds of the olive‑onion mixture inside the bread, then add the drained tuna (break into chunks), drizzle 2 Tbsp olive oil over the tuna, layer tomato slices, then thinly sliced hard‑boiled eggs, and finally top with the remaining olive mixture. Replace the top half of the baguette.

    Time: PT7M

  10. Wrap and Weight

    Wrap each assembled sandwich tightly in plastic wrap, place on a rimmed baking sheet, cover with a second sheet, and set a Dutch oven (or other heavy pot) on top to press.

    Time: PT5M

  11. Press and Rest

    Let the weighted sandwiches sit for at least 1 hour at room temperature to compact the layers.

    Time: PT1H

  12. Slice and Serve

    Unwrap, cut each sandwich into thirds (or halves), and serve immediately.

    Time: PT2M

Nutrition Facts

Calories
550
Protein
30 g
Carbohydrates
45 g
Fat
30 g
Fiber
5 g

Dietary info: Gluten, Seafood

Allergens: Fish, Eggs, Wheat

Last updated: April 7, 2026

Amazon Associates

Amazon Associates PartnerTrusted

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases made through links on this page. This helps support our site at no extra cost to you. Clicking on ingredient or equipment links will take you to amazon.com where you can purchase these items.

Provençal Tuna Sandwich

Recipe by America's Test Kitchen

A French-inspired tuna sandwich that captures the flavors of a classic salade niçoise on a toasted baguette. Crispy toasted bread is hollowed out, brushed with olive oil, and filled with a briny olive‑herb salad, tender tuna, fresh tomato, and sliced hard‑boiled eggs, then pressed to compact the layers for a satisfying bite.

MediumFrenchServes 4

Shop all ingredients on Amazon in one click • Printable PDF with shopping checklist

Source Video
1h 34m
Prep
12m
Cook
13m
Cleanup
1h 59m
Total

Cost Breakdown

$10.95
Total cost
$2.74
Per serving

Critical Success Points

  • Toast baguette until lightly golden
  • Pulse olive‑herb mixture to a coarse but even texture
  • Brush interior of bread with olive oil to prevent sogginess
  • Press sandwiches for at least one hour to compact layers

Safety Warnings

  • Handle hot baking sheet and oven with oven mitts.
  • Use a cutting board and keep fingers away from knife blades.
  • Canned tuna is pre‑cooked, but keep it refrigerated after opening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Everything you need to know about this recipe

Q

What is the cultural significance and history of the Provençal Tuna Sandwich in French cuisine?

A

The sandwich is a modern take on the classic salade niçoise from the Provence region, turning the salad’s bright, briny flavors into a portable meal. It reflects the French tradition of using fresh, local ingredients like olives, anchovies, and tuna to create simple yet elegant dishes.

cultural
Q

What are traditional regional variations of a tuna‑niçoise sandwich in Provence?

A

In Provence, some versions use a smaller batard roll instead of a baguette, add boiled potatoes, or swap tuna for grilled sardines. The olive‑herb salad may also include fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary depending on the local garden.

cultural
Q

How is the Provençal Tuna Sandwich traditionally served in the south of France?

A

It is often served as a lunchtime picnic item, sliced into manageable portions and eaten with a side of crusty bread or a simple green salad. The sandwich is usually enjoyed at room temperature after the pressing step.

cultural
Q

What occasions or celebrations feature the Provençal Tuna Sandwich in French culture?

A

The sandwich is popular for casual gatherings, beach picnics, and summer barbecues in Provence. It’s also a staple for market lunches where fresh ingredients are abundant.

cultural
Q

How does the Provençal Tuna Sandwich fit into the broader French cuisine tradition?

A

It embodies the French emphasis on balance—combining salty anchovies, briny olives, fresh herbs, and rich tuna with a crisp baguette. The dish showcases the French love for simple, high‑quality ingredients prepared with care.

cultural
Q

What are the authentic traditional ingredients for the Provençal Tuna Sandwich versus acceptable substitutes?

A

Authentic ingredients include Niçoise olives, anchovy fillets, capers, fresh parsley, marjoram, and tuna packed in oil. Substitutes can be green olives for Niçoise, dried marjoram for fresh, or canned tuna in water if oil‑packed tuna is unavailable.

cultural
Q

What other Provençal dishes pair well with the Provençal Tuna Sandwich?

A

Pair it with a light mixed green salad dressed with vinaigrette, a bowl of ratatouille, or a chilled glass of rosé from the Provence region for a harmonious meal.

cultural
Q

What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making the Provençal Tuna Sandwich at home?

A

Common errors include over‑loading the sandwich with wet ingredients, not brushing the bread with olive oil, and skipping the pressing step. These lead to soggy bread and a sandwich that falls apart.

technical
Q

Why does this Provençal Tuna Sandwich recipe use olive oil to waterproof the bread instead of butter?

A

Olive oil adds a Mediterranean flavor that complements the olives, capers, and anchovies, while also creating a thin barrier that prevents moisture from soaking into the crust. Butter would introduce a different flavor profile and could become soggy more quickly.

technical
Q

Can I make the Provençal Tuna Sandwich ahead of time and how should I store it?

A

Yes. Prepare the olive‑herb salad and toast the baguette a day ahead. Assemble, wrap tightly in plastic, press, and refrigerate. The sandwich stays fresh for up to two days; bring to room temperature before serving.

technical
Q

What does the YouTube channel America's Test Kitchen specialize in?

A

America's Test Kitchen specializes in rigorously tested, science‑based cooking tutorials that focus on reliable techniques, thorough ingredient explanations, and reproducible results for home cooks.

channel
Q

How does the YouTube channel America's Test Kitchen's approach to French cooking differ from other cooking channels?

A

America's Test Kitchen emphasizes precise measurements, controlled experiments, and step‑by‑step explanations, whereas many other channels may rely on intuition or shortcuts. Their French recipes often include detailed testing notes and troubleshooting tips.

channel

You Might Also Like

Similar recipes converted from YouTube cooking videos

Pan Bagnat (Tuna Nicoise Sandwich)
18

Pan Bagnat (Tuna Nicoise Sandwich)

A classic French-inspired tuna sandwich that layers oil‑packed tuna with a bright Nicoise salad, hard‑boiled egg, and juicy tomato inside a lightly toasted baguette. Pressed for an hour, the sandwich stays together, offers contrasting textures, and delivers punchy, savory flavors.

1 hr 40 minServes 2$6
French
Perfect Breakfast Sandwich
72

Perfect Breakfast Sandwich

A hearty outdoor breakfast sandwich featuring homemade maple‑sage sausage, a fried egg with a soft yolk, melted American cheese, and toasted English muffins. Made on a carbon‑steel griddle over a fire pit, this sandwich captures the classic New York bodega flavor with a sweet‑herby twist.

50 minServes 3$12
American
CLASSIC TUNA MELT: Easy, Delicious, & Satisfying/Simple Sandwich Perfect When Pressed for Time
5

CLASSIC TUNA MELT: Easy, Delicious, & Satisfying/Simple Sandwich Perfect When Pressed for Time

A quick, comforting classic tuna melt made with hearty sourdough, sharp cheddar and pepper jack cheese, fresh parsley, onion, and crunchy hamburger pickles. Perfect for a fast lunch or snack, this sandwich is buttery‑golden on the outside and creamy, flavorful on the inside.

25 minServes 1$6
American
The Best Tuna Melt Sandwich Recipe On Sourdough Bread
6

The Best Tuna Melt Sandwich Recipe On Sourdough Bread

A classic tuna melt upgraded with grass‑fed butter, fresh herbs, crisp celery, and sharp cheddar, all grilled on buttery sourdough bread. This quick, easy sandwich packs bright lemon, garlic, and a satisfying crunch, perfect for a hearty lunch.

34 minServes 2$10
American
🥪 How to make a Tuna Sandwich ( with Mayo )
7

🥪 How to make a Tuna Sandwich ( with Mayo )

A quick, classic American tuna sandwich made with flaked canned tuna, creamy mayonnaise, fresh dill, and crisp iceberg lettuce. Perfect for a light lunch or snack, this recipe walks you through mixing a flavorful tuna filling, chilling it for optimal texture, and assembling a fresh, satisfying sandwich.

59 minServes 4$15
American
Your Canned Tuna Belongs In A Sandwich
9

Your Canned Tuna Belongs In A Sandwich

A step‑by‑step guide to making a classic tuna salad sandwich and a crispy, cheesy tuna melt using a homemade mayonnaise, fresh veggies, and perfectly toasted bread.

47 minServes 2$30
American