Step-By-Step Guide: Mastering the Art of Panera's Famous Tuna Salad Recipe

Are you a fan of Panera’s famous tuna salad? Do you find yourself craving its delicious blend of flavors and textures? Well, you’re in luck because in this article, we will be revealing the secret recipe for how to make Panera tuna salad at home. Not only will you save money by making it yourself, but you’ll also be able to customize it to your liking. So if you’re ready to elevate your lunch game, keep reading to learn how to recreate this delectable dish in your own kitchen.

What is Panera Tuna Salad?

Panera Tuna Salad is a popular menu item offered by the popular bakery-café chain, Panera Bread. It is a delicious and nutritious blend of tuna, mayonnaise, celery, red onions, and secret seasonings served on top of fresh, crisp greens. This refreshing salad offers a balance of flavors and textures that make it a customer favorite.

Panera Tuna Salad is made with high-quality ingredients that are carefully selected by Panera’s team of chefs. The tuna used in the salad is wild-caught from pole and line fisheries for sustainable fishing practices. The mayo used is made without artificial preservatives or colors. The red onions are sliced fresh daily, and the celery adds a satisfying crunch to every bite.

The Ingredients

The key ingredients in Panera Tuna Salad are tuna, mayonnaise, celery, and red onions. Each ingredient plays an important role in creating the perfect balance of flavors for the salad.

1) Tuna: As mentioned earlier, Panera uses wild-caught tuna for their salad. This type of tuna is not only sustainable but also has a more robust flavor compared to canned tuna.

2) Mayonnaise: The mayonnaise used in Panera Tuna Salad is made without any artificial preservatives or colors. It adds creaminess to the salad without overpowering the other flavors.

3) Celery: Celery adds a refreshing crunch to the salad and balances out the richness of the mayonnaise and tuna.

4) Red Onions: These sliced fresh daily at Panera add a subtle sweetness to the salad while also adding some texture.

Apart from these main ingredients, there are also some secret seasonings added to enhance the overall flavor profile of Panera Tuna Salad. These seasonings include garlic powder, black pepper, dried parsley flakes, dried dill, and lemon juice.

How to Make Panera Tuna Salad at Home

While Panera Tuna Salad can be conveniently purchased from any Panera Bread location, it can also be easily recreated at home. Here is a simple and easy-to-follow recipe for Panera Tuna Salad that you can try in your own kitchen.

Ingredients:
– 12 oz. of fresh tuna
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of finely sliced celery
– 1/4 cup of diced red onion
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1 tsp dried parsley flakes
– 1 tsp dried dill
– Juice of half a lemon

Instructions:
1) Drain the tuna and add it to a large mixing bowl.
2) Add the mayonnaise and mix well until the tuna is evenly coated.
3) Add in the celery, red onions, garlic powder, black pepper, parsley flakes, dill, and lemon juice. Mix well.
4) Taste the mixture and adjust any seasonings according to your preference.
5) Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least an hour.
6) Serve on top of fresh greens or use as a filling for sandwiches, wraps, or pitas.

How to Customize Your Panera Tuna Salad

One of the best things about making your own Panera Tuna Salad at home is that you can easily customize it according to your taste preferences. Here are a few ideas on how you can make your salad unique:

1) Add some extra crunch by including other chopped vegetables like bell peppers or cucumbers.

2) Experiment with different seasonings like chili powder or paprika for a slight kick.

3) Switch up the base greens by using mixed greens instead of just lettuce.

4) Add a sprinkle of your favorite cheese on top, such as feta or cheddar.

5) For a healthier option, replace mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt.

6) Top off your salad with some toasted nuts or seeds for added texture and flavor.

Health Benefits of Panera Tuna Salad

Panera Tuna Salad is not only delicious but also offers numerous health benefits. Here are some of the nutritional benefits of this tasty salad:

1) Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids: The fresh tuna used in Panera Tuna Salad is a great source of omega-3 fatty acids. These essential fatty acids are known for their role in promoting heart health and reducing inflammation in the body.

2) High in Protein: Tuna is also an excellent source of protein, with around 22 grams per serving. Protein helps support muscle growth and repair, keeping you feeling full and satisfied.

3) Contains Antioxidants: The vegetables used in the salad, such as celery and red onions, are rich in antioxidants. These compounds help protect the body from damage caused by harmful molecules called free radicals.

4) Low in Calories: A typical serving of Panera Tuna Salad contains around 260 calories, making

The Origins of Panera Tuna Salad

Panera Tuna Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that has gained popularity in recent years. With its fresh ingredients and unique flavor profile, it has become a favorite among many seafood lovers. But where did this tasty dish originate?

The origins of Panera Tuna Salad can be traced back to the early 2000s when Panera Bread, formerly known as St. Louis Bread Company, introduced it as part of their menu. The company’s mission was to provide customers with healthy and flavorful options, and the creation of their tuna salad perfectly aligned with this goal.

At first, the salad was only available as a seasonal item, but it quickly became so popular that Panera Bread decided to add it to their regular menu. Today, you can find Panera Tuna Salad at all of their locations nationwide.

What Makes Panera Tuna Salad Unique?

One of the things that sets Panera Tuna Salad apart from other tuna salads is its use of high-quality ingredients. The tuna used is wild-caught albacore tuna from sustainable sources, ensuring that you’re getting the freshest and most flavorful fish possible.

In addition to the tuna, the salad also includes diced red onions, celery, and apple chunks for added crunch and sweetness. The dressing is made with mayonnaise mixed with lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and dill for a tangy and savory flavor.

But what truly makes Panera Tuna Salad stand out is the addition of their signature blend of spices known as “Savor-ables.” This spice mix contains a blend of dried herbs and spices such as garlic, onion powder, paprika, and black pepper which gives the salad its distinct flavor profile.

Tips for Making Perfect Panera Tuna Salad at Home

While nothing beats enjoying a Panera Tuna Salad from one of their bakery-cafes, you can also recreate this dish at home. Here are some tips to ensure that your homemade tuna salad is just as delicious as the one from Panera Bread.

– Start with fresh and high-quality ingredients. Use good quality canned albacore tuna, and make sure to drain it well before adding it to the salad.

– Dice the vegetables and apples into small, uniform pieces. This will ensure that each bite has a perfect balance of flavors and textures.

– Use fresh herbs if possible. The flavors will be more vibrant and add a nice touch to the overall dish.

– Don’t skimp on the “Savor-ables” spice blend. This is what gives Panera Tuna Salad its unique taste, so be sure to use a generous amount.

How To Make Panera Tuna Salad

Now that you have all the necessary information, let’s walk through how to make Panera Tuna Salad step by step.

Ingredients:
– 2 cans (12 oz) wild-caught albacore tuna
– ½ cup diced red onion
– ½ cup diced celery
– 1 large apple, diced
– ¼ cup mayonnaise
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 2 tsp Dijon mustard
– ½ tsp dried dill
– 2 tsp “Savor-ables” spice blend
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Start by draining the canned tuna and adding it to a large mixing bowl.

2. Add in the diced red onion, celery, and apple to the tuna.

3. In a separate small mixing bowl, mix together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and dried dill until well combined.

4. Pour this dressing over the tuna mixture in the larger bowl and mix until everything is evenly coated.

5. Add the “Savor-ables” spice blend, salt, and pepper to the bowl and mix well. Adjust seasoning according to your taste.

6. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow all the flavors to meld together.

7. Serve on a bed of greens, with your favorite crackers or bread, or enjoy it on its own.

Enjoy Panera Tuna Salad Anytime

Now that you know the history, unique ingredients, and how to make Panera Tuna Salad at home, there’s no reason not to enjoy it anytime you’re craving it. This versatile dish can be enjoyed as a sandwich filling, on top of a bed of greens for a healthy lunch, or as a side dish for any meal.

So next time you visit Panera Bread or want to impress your family and friends with your culinary skills, try making this delicious tuna salad. With its fresh ingredients and amazing flavors, it’s sure to become a household favorite in no time.

Q: What ingredients do I need to make Panera tuna salad?
A: To make Panera tuna salad, you’ll need canned tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, red onion, dill pickle relish, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.

Q: Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tuna instead of canned. Simply cook and flake the tuna before using it in the recipe.

Q: How can I make this recipe more healthy?
A: To make a healthier version of Panera tuna salad, you can substitute plain Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise. You can also add in more diced vegetables like carrots or bell peppers for added nutrients.

Q: Can I customize the flavors in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amounts of lemon juice, pickle relish, and seasonings to your taste preferences.

Q: What is the best way to serve Panera tuna salad?
A: Panera tuna salad can be served as a sandwich on bread or a croissant with lettuce and tomato. It’s also great on top of a bed of greens as a salad or on crackers as an appetizer.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?
A: Yes! This tuna salad can be made ahead of time and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just stir well before serving.

In conclusion, making Panera tuna salad is a simple and delicious meal that can be easily prepared at home. By following the steps outlined above, you can recreate the signature Panera flavor in the comfort of your own kitchen. Remember to start with quality ingredients like fresh tuna and a tangy vinaigrette. Preparing and cooking the tuna properly is crucial to achieving the perfect balance of texture and flavor. Additionally, adding in complementary ingredients like crunchy celery and sweet grapes can elevate the dish even further. Overall, making Panera tuna salad at home allows you to customize it to your liking while also being a healthier option compared to commercially available versions. With this knowledge and understanding, you can now confidently make your own version of this popular dish for yourself and your loved ones. So go ahead, gather your ingredients and get ready to enjoy a flavorful and satisfying meal that will surely become a household favorite!

Author Profile

Erick Benitez

In 2003, the Coast Sushi Bar was founded, quickly becoming a beloved fixture in its trendy neighborhood, appreciated for its exceptional sushi and vibrant BYOB atmosphere.

The chefs at Coast have developed a mastery in blending subtle yet intricate flavors, establishing a reputation for pioneering innovative New-Japanese cuisine with only the finest global ingredients.

Building on decades of culinary success, the founder launched a new endeavor in 2024—a blog focused on Japanese snacks. This blog marks a significant shift from restaurateur to food blogger, motivated by a desire to share comprehensive insights into Japanese culinary arts and snack culture. The content covers traditional snacks, the evolution of snack culture in Japan, and the global influence and adaptation of these snacks.

Each blog post reflects the founder's commitment to quality and attention to detail, mirroring the standards of Coast Sushi Bar.

Aimed at both aficionados and novices of Japanese cuisine, the blog serves as a resource for deepening readers’ knowledge and appreciation of Japan's rich and diverse food culture.

Step-By-Step Guide: Mastering the Art of Panera’s Famous Tuna Salad Recipe