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Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Recipe
Emily Carter

Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Recipe

Experience the bold, healthy Italian flavor of the famous Buona Beef Tuna Genovese. This easy recipe skips the mayo in favor of olive oil, lemon, and capers for a zestier, lighter tuna sandwich that tastes exactly like the restaurant favorite.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 2 Persons
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans 5 oz Yellowfin Tuna in Olive Oil (Solid)
  • 2 tbsp Extra Virgin Olive Oil
  • 1 tbsp Capers drained
  • 1 tbsp Fresh Lemon Juice
  • 1/4 cup Celery finely diced
  • 2 tbsp Red Onion minced
  • 1/2 tsp Dried Oregano
  • 1 pinch Salt adjust to taste
  • 1 pinch Black Pepper freshly cracked
  • 2 Artisan Multigrain Rolls or Ciabatta buns
  • 1/2 cup Fresh Arugula
  • 1 medium Tomato sliced thinly

Equipment

  • Medium Mixing Bowl
  • Can Opener
  • Chef's Knife
  • Cutting Board
  • Toaster (optional)
  • Mixing Spoon

Method
 

  1. Drain and Flake: Open the tuna cans and drain most of the oil. Place the tuna into your mixing bowl and gently flake it with a fork.
  2. Add Crunch and Zest: Add the diced celery, minced red onion, and capers to the bowl.
  3. Dress the Tuna: Pour in the extra virgin olive oil and fresh lemon juice.
  4. Season: Sprinkle the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper over the mixture.
  5. Mix and Marinate: Gently toss everything together until well combined. Let the mixture sit for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  6. Toast Bread: While the tuna marinates, slice your rolls and toast them lightly until they are golden brown.
  7. Assemble: Place a generous scoop of the tuna mixture onto the bottom bun. Layer with tomato slices and fresh arugula.
  8. Serve: Top with the remaining bun and serve immediately.

Notes

Tuna Tip: Using tuna packed in olive oil is crucial for the "Genovese" style. Water-packed tuna will be too dry for this recipe since there is no mayonnaise.
Storage: Keep the tuna salad separate from the bread if you are meal prepping. It stays fresh in the fridge for 3 days.
Spice Level: If you want the true Chicago experience, add a spoonful of hot giardiniera peppers on top.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
Calories: 450 kcal    Carbohydrates: 42 g    Protein: 32 g    Fat: 18 g
Saturated Fat: 2.5 g    Cholesterol: 45 mg    Sodium: 680 mg
Fiber: 4 g    Sugar: 3 g