OREGON ALBACORE TUNA MELT

Oregon Albacore Tuna Melt image

Provided by Lynn Clay

Time 35m

Number Of Ingredients 12

2 can(s) 6 oz albacore tuna
1/4 c finely diced red onion
1/4 c extra virgin olive oil
1 Tbsp balsamic vinegar
1 Tbsp minced basil
1/2 tsp crushed red pepper
salt and freshly ground pepper
4 ciabatta rolls, split
dijon mustard and mayonnaise, for spreading
8 ¼-inch-thick slices of tillamook sharp cheddar or tillamook swiss cheese
24 slices garlic dill pickles
2 Tbsp tillamook unsalted butter, softened

Steps:

1. In a medium bowl, mix the tuna with the onion, olive oil, vinegar, basil, and crushed red pepper. Season with salt and pepper.
2. Heat a panini press or griddle. Spread the cut sides of the rolls with mustard and mayonnaise and top each roll half with a slice of cheese.
3. Spread the tuna salad on the bottoms and cover with the pickles. Close the sandwiches and spread the outsides of the rolls with butter.
4. Place the sandwiches on the press or griddle and cook over moderate heat until the cheese is melted, about 6 minutes. To make sure the sandwiches are fully cooked, open them up and place in a 450°F oven for about 1 minute.
5. Remove from oven, close sandwiches, cut in half, and serve.