Sicilian Tuna Sandwich of Your Dreams
A Taste of Agrigento
Imagine driving through the ancient town of Agrigento, located on the southern coast of Sicily. As you wind your way up the hill, the landscape unfolds before you, revealing glimpses of history at every turn. You decide to stop at a local deli to pick up this delicious Sicilian tuna sandwich before continuing your journey.
With your picnic in hand, you make your way to the top of the hill overlooking the Valley of the Temples, one of the most outstanding examples of Greater Greece art and architecture. As you unwrap your sandwich, the aroma of the Mediterranean ingredients fills the air, mingling with the scent of wild herbs carried on the breeze.
Taking your first bite, you gaze out at the ancient ruins below. The Valley of the Temples, a UNESCO World Heritage site, stretches before you, showcasing a series of Doric temples dating back to the 5th century BCE. The most well-preserved is the Temple of Concordia, its golden-hued columns standing proud against the azure sky.
As you savor your sandwich, you can't help but feel connected to the rich history surrounding you. The flavors of the tuna, sun-dried tomatoes, and capers transport you through time, echoing the culinary traditions that have thrived in this region for millennia.
The ruins of Agrigento tell a story of the ancient Greek city of Akragas, once one of the leading cities of Magna Graecia. Founded around 582 BCE, it quickly grew to become a wealthy and powerful city, known for its extravagant lifestyle and impressive architecture.
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Nutritional Benefits
Tuna: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, high-quality protein, and selenium. Supports heart health and provides essential nutrients.
Celery: Low in calories, high in fiber, and contains antioxidants. Aids in digestion and may help reduce inflammation.
Sun-dried tomatoes: Packed with lycopene, vitamin C, and potassium. Boosts immune system and promotes heart health.
Capers: Contains quercetin, a powerful antioxidant. May help reduce inflammation and support immune function.
Parsley: High in vitamins A, C, and K. Supports bone health and has anti-inflammatory properties.
Extra-virgin olive oil: Rich in monounsaturated fats and antioxidants. Supports heart health and may help reduce inflammation.
Lemon juice: High in vitamin C and antioxidants. Aids in iron absorption and supports immune function.
Sourdough bread: Easier to digest than regular bread due to the fermentation process. Contains prebiotics that support gut health.
Cecina (optional): Made from chickpea flour, high in protein and fiber. Provides a good source of plant-based protein and supports digestive health.
Ingredients
For the Tuna Salad:
1 (6.7-ounce) jar olive-oil packed tuna, drained and flaked
2 celery stalks with leaves, finely chopped
2 TBSP finely chopped sun-dried tomatoes packed in oil (or bruschetta spread)
1 TBSP capers, drained and rinsed
1 TBSP fresh flat-leaf parsley, chopped
2 TBSP extra-virgin olive oil
1 TBSP fresh lemon juice
½ TSP kosher salt
¼ TSP freshly ground black pepper
For the Sandwich:
2 pieces of toasted sourdough bread
1 piece of cecina (Sicilian chickpea pancake), pan-fried in olive oil (optional)
method
In a medium bowl, combine the flaked tuna, chopped celery stalks and leaves, sun-dried tomatoes, capers, and parsley.
Add the olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir gently to mix all ingredients thoroughly.
If using cecina, pan-fry a piece in olive oil until crispy on both sides.
Toast the sourdough bread slices.
Spread the tuna salad mixture generously directly on the bread.
If using cecina, place it on bed of tuna.
Top with the second slice of bread.
Cut the sandwich diagonally and serve.