A culinary expert has revealed a simple kitchen swap that promises to banish greasy, heavy tuna sandwiches for good. The secret? Ditching traditional mayonnaise in favour of plain low-fat yoghurt.
The Problem with the Classic Mayo-Based Filling
For many across the UK, a tuna sandwich is a lunchtime favourite. However, the standard binding agent – mayonnaise – often leads to a disappointingly oily and slimy texture. As reported by the Express, this can make the meal feel heavy and unappetising. Furthermore, mayo is calorie-dense, with some recipes calling for up to four tablespoons per serving, adding hundreds of calories of fat.
A Healthier, Zestier Alternative
Lisa Goldfinger, founder of Panning the Globe, advocates for a straightforward substitute. "Plain low-fat yoghurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise," she explains. This switch not only slashes the fat content but also introduces a pleasantly tangy flavour that complements ingredients like lemon juice and radishes. Yoghurt's natural thickness replicates the desired creamy texture without the need for artificial additives found in many shop-bought mayonnaises.
An added practical benefit is food safety. Traditional tuna mayo can spoil in as little as two hours in warm weather, making it a risky choice for picnics or barbecues. The yoghurt-based version is a lighter, more stable alternative for outdoor dining.
How to Make the Upgraded Tuna Filling
Here is the simple method to create this improved tuna mix at home.
Ingredients:
- One can (140g) of tuna
- 120ml of plain low-fat yoghurt
- Three tbsp of chopped radishes
- Three tbsp of chopped red onion
- Two tbsp of capers
- Two tsp of Dijon mustard
- One lemon
- Salt, to taste
Method:
First, drain the tuna and flake it into a bowl. Next, add the yoghurt, radishes, onion, capers, mustard, and a pinch of salt. Squeeze in a teaspoon of lemon juice from half the lemon. Mix everything thoroughly until well combined. For a creamier consistency, simply add a little more yoghurt, and adjust the lemon or salt to suit your personal taste. Your revitalised tuna filling is now ready to be enjoyed in a sandwich or salad.
This clever tweak from a professional chef offers a path to a more delicious, healthier, and safer lunch staple, proving that sometimes the best upgrades are also the simplest.