Bell Pepper Tuna Melts
Instead of bread, colorful bell pepper quarters or halves are filled with creamy, protein-rich tuna salad and topped with melty cheese for a satisfying, low-carb spin on the beloved sandwich.
Ingredients
- 1 large red bell pepper, quartered
- 1 (5-ounce) can light tuna in water, drained
- 3 to 4 tablespoons light mayo
- 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
- 2 tablespoons finely diced celery
- ½ to 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 2 slices cheddar cheese, broken in half (or ¼ cup shredded)
- 1 to 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley or dill to mix in with tuna salad or for garnish, optional
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F. Line a baking sheet with optional parchment paper for easy cleanup. Set aside.
- Prepare tuna salad: In a bowl, mix tuna, mayo, celery, onion, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, optional herbs, salt, and pepper.
- Assemble: Lay the bell pepper quarters cut side up on the baking sheet. Spoon the tuna mixture evenly into each piece and top with cheddar cheese (half slice over each).
- Bake and serve: for about 10 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with optional paprika and/or fresh herbs before serving.
Notes
Storage:
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in a toaster oven or microwave until warmed through.
Variations:
• Spicy kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mix.
• Mediterranean twist: Swap cheddar for feta cheese and add chopped olives.
• Dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative or skip the cheese and sprinkle with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
• Extra sweet crunch: Mix in finely chopped apple and almonds for added flavor and texture.
Nutrition Information per serving
Calories: 450Carbohydrates: 17gProtein: 40gTotal Fat: 26g— Unsaturated Fat: 16g— Saturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 940mgPotassium: 687mgFiber: 4gTotal Sugar: 9g— Natural Sugar: 9g— Added Sugar: 0gVitamin A: 5224IUVitamin C: 212mgCalcium: 325mg
Nutrition information is calculated using a leading industry software. That being said, brands can vary, and there may be slight fluctuations in the numbers.