A nutritionist has shared a simple twist on the classic tuna melt, swapping mayonnaise for cottage cheese to boost protein content and creaminess. Emily English, a nutritionist and content creator, revealed her go-to recipe in a social media post that has garnered over 1.2 million views.
English's version contains 300 calories and 27 grams of protein per serving. She wrote: 'I personally think a tuna melt is one of the best sandwich combinations in the world, and this is my version. All the comfort of a classic tuna melt, but with a lighter, protein-packed filling, creamy and seriously satisfying.'
According to Good Food, cottage cheese is a rich source of protein, providing all nine essential amino acids. Low-fat varieties offer a high protein-to-calorie ratio, making them ideal for maintaining muscle mass while reducing calorie intake. The primary protein in cottage cheese is casein, which is slowly digested and supports muscle repair and growth.
The recipe involves mixing tuna, celery, red onion, green pepper, cornichons, cottage cheese, dill, garlic granules and cheddar, then spreading the mixture on bread and topping with extra cheddar. The sandwich is cooked in an oven or air fryer at 210°C for eight to 10 minutes until golden and bubbling.
English noted that the tuna mix can be stored in the fridge for up to three days, making it suitable for meal prepping. The post received 21,600 likes and 199 comments, with many praising the recipe as 'delicious' and 'protein-packed comfort food done right.'
