The Ultimate Tuna Melt Recipes

Steps:

• Preheat the broiler and set the rack about 4 to 5 inches from the heat source.
• Spread the bread out on a baking sheet and toast. Spread the toasted muffins or bread with the mayonnaise, if using. Top with the Tuna Salad and then the shredded cheese. Place the baking sheet under the broiler and heat for 3 to 5 minutes, until the cheese has melted. Serve immediately.
• In a small mixing bowl break up the tuna with a fork. Toss with the celery, onion, and parsley. Add the mayonnaise, mustard, and season with pepper to taste. Stir to combine. Add lemon juice, if using.

Steps:

• You can substitute Swiss or cheddar cheese for the provolone. It's important to use the albacore tuna called for in the recipe; albacore is a firm, white tuna that holds up better than flaked tuna.
• When picking lemons, look for ones that are firm with skin that is smooth and bright. They will keep for two to three weeks if stored in a plastic bag in the refrigerator. To get more juice out of your fruit, let the lemon return to room temperature, and then roll it across the counter top while applying pressure with the palm of your hand. You'll get about 3 tablespoons of juice from one lemon. Since you only need 1 tablespoon of juice for this recipe, you can either squeeze just one-half of the lemon (and section the rest for use in drinks), or you could squeeze the entire lemon and store the remaining juice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to five days.
• Preheat broiler. Combine first 8 ingredients in a medium bowl. Divide evenly among muffin halves; sprinkle with cheese. Place on a baking sheet; broil 5 inches from heat for 4 minutes or until golden brown.