This Tuna Nicoise sandwich delivers all the vibrant flavors of the classic Nicoise salad in a perfectly portable package. Packed with protein from high-quality olive oil–packed tuna and eggs, plus fiber and vitamins from fresh vegetables, it’s a healthy, satisfying meal that doesn’t compromise on taste. Creamy chive citrus dressing ties it all together with a bold, tangy flair.

We developed this recipe to make nutritious eating easy and incredibly flavorful. By combining wholesome ingredients with our creamy, made-from-scratch dressing, we’ve created what we believe is the best Tuna Nicoise sandwich recipe out there. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal-prep option or a portable lunch, this sandwich has you covered.

Why This Tuna Nicoise Sandwich Is Good for You

High in Protein: With tuna and eggs as the stars, this sandwich is rich in lean, muscle-building protein.
Loaded with Omega-3s: High-quality olive oil-packed tuna provides heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids.
Vitamins and Fiber: French green beans, arugula, and baby potatoes bring essential nutrients and fiber to the mix.
Gluten-Free Adaptable: Simply swap the baguette for your favorite gluten-free bread.
Balanced Meal: This sandwich provides the perfect ratio of carbs, healthy fats, and protein for all-day energy.

Wholesome Ingredients for This Healthy Nicoise Sandwich

Each ingredient in this easy Tuna Nicoise sandwich was chosen for its nutritional value and ability to layer bold flavors. Here are a few standouts:

Tuna: Opt for sustainably-sourced tuna packed in olive oil for the best flavor and added omega-3s. It elevates this homemade Tuna Nicoise sandwich from standard to extraordinary.
Baby Potatoes: Naturally gluten-free and rich in potassium, these small spuds provide a satisfying, creamy bite.
Green Beans: Lightly cooked to preserve their crunch and nutrients, green beans are a fantastic source of vitamins A, C, and K.
Creamy Chive Citrus Dressing: Anchovies and fresh lemon juice make this dressing tangy and bold, while chives lend a subtle onion-like flavor. For a dairy-free option, consider using vegan mayo in place of egg-based emulsions.

Tuna Nicoise Sandwich Recipe Details

Servings: 2 sandwiches
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes

Ingredients for Tuna Nicoise Sandwich

For the Creamy Chive Citrus Dressing:
1 large egg
¾ cup light olive oil
3 tablespoons finely chopped chives
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons minced shallots
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 garlic cloves, pressed
3 anchovies
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
½ teaspoon kosher salt
For the sandwich:
2 tablespoons kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
¼ pound French green beans
1/2 pound baby potatoes
2 large eggs
1 medium French baguette, cut in half then sliced horizontally
1-2 (4.5-ounce) cans high-quality tuna packed in olive oil
1-2 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
½ cup black pitted olives, sliced
Arugula
Marinated red onions
Freshly ground black pepper

How to Make Tuna Nicoise Sandwich

Prepare the Dressing: Blend the egg in a mason jar with an immersion blender, slowly emulsifying the olive oil. Add chives, lemon juice, shallots, vinegar, garlic, anchovies, hot sauce, zest, and salt. Cover and refrigerate.
Cook the Green Beans: Boil water with 2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Add beans and simmer for 5 minutes until tender. Transfer to a prepared ice bath to halt cooking, then pat dry.
Cook the Potatoes: Boil baby potatoes in the same water for 12–15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and cool, then lightly smash and toss with dressing.
Cook the Eggs: Boil eggs for 7 ½ minutes, then cool in ice water before peeling and halving.
Assemble the Sandwich: Toast the baguette halves and hollow out some of the soft center. Layer each sandwich with tuna, green beans, potatoes, egg halves, tomato slices, olives, arugula, and marinated onions. Drizzle chive dressing over the top and season with pepper.
Serve or Wrap: Gently press the baguettes closed. If packing for lunch, wrap sandwiches tightly in foil to keep everything in place.

How to Customize This Tuna Nicoise Sandwich for Your Diet

Vegan: Replace tuna with smashed chickpeas and use vegan mayonnaise in the dressing.
Keto-Friendly: Skip the potatoes and use a low-carb wrap in place of the baguette.
Gluten-Free: Use your favorite gluten-free baguette or sandwich roll.
Lower Calorie: Lighten it up by using a whole grain sandwich thin instead of a baguette.
Nut-Free: This recipe is naturally nut-free, no modifications required!

Our Team’s Tips for the Best Tuna Nicoise Sandwich

Choose quality tuna: Look for olive oil–packed tuna for better flavor and texture.
Make ahead: Cook the eggs, potatoes, and green beans in advance for easy assembly later.
Squeeze lemon: Add a final squeeze of lemon juice before serving to brighten the flavors.
Keep it fresh: Store leftover dressing in the fridge and use within two days for the best taste.
Portable perfection: Always wrap in foil if packing this for lunch to keep all the layers intact.

Tuna Nicoise Sandwich FAQs

What’s the best bread for a Tuna Nicoise sandwich?

A crusty French baguette is ideal, but ciabatta or sourdough work well too.

Can I meal prep this sandwich?

Yes! Prepare the dressing, eggs, potatoes, and green beans ahead of time. Assemble sandwiches right before eating for maximum freshness.

Is this sandwich gluten-free?

The sandwich can be made gluten-free by simply using a gluten-free baguette or roll.

How can I add more protein?

Double up on tuna or add extra eggs for a protein boost!

What makes the dressing creamy without dairy?

The emulsification of egg and olive oil creates a luxurious, creamy texture that’s completely dairy-free.

This Tuna Nicoise sandwich merges health-conscious ingredients with irresistible flavors, making it a perfect choice for lunch or a light dinner. Which nutritional swap will you try? Let us know in the comments below!

Tuna Nicoise sandwich

This Tuna Nicoise sandwich combines the classic Nicoise salad flavors into a portable and nutritious meal, complete with creamy chive citrus dressing for a tangy, bold finishing touch.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15

Cook Time 40

Total Time 55

Course Main Course

Cuisine French

Servings 2 sandwiches

Ingredients

1 large egg
¾ cup light olive oil
3 tablespoons finely chopped chives
3 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 tablespoons minced shallots
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
2 cloves garlic, pressed
3 anchovies
1 teaspoon hot sauce
1/2 teaspoon grated lemon zest
½ teaspoon kosher salt
2 tablespoons kosher salt, plus more for seasoning
¼ pound French green beans
1/2 pound baby potatoes
2 large eggs
1 medium French baguette, cut in half then sliced horizontally
1-2 (4.5-ounce) cans high-quality tuna packed in olive oil
1-2 Roma tomatoes, thinly sliced
½ cup black pitted olives, sliced
Arugula
Marinated red onions
Freshly ground black pepper

Instructions

Blend the egg in a mason jar with an immersion blender, slowly emulsifying the olive oil. Add chives, lemon juice, shallots, vinegar, garlic, anchovies, hot sauce, zest, and salt. Cover and refrigerate.
Boil water with 2 tablespoons of kosher salt. Add beans and simmer for 5 minutes until tender. Transfer to a prepared ice bath to halt cooking, then pat dry.
Boil baby potatoes in the same water for 12–15 minutes until fork-tender. Drain and cool, then lightly smash and toss with dressing.
Boil eggs for 7 ½ minutes, then cool in ice water before peeling and halving.
Toast the baguette halves and hollow out some of the soft center. Layer each sandwich with tuna, green beans, potatoes, egg halves, tomato slices, olives, arugula, and marinated onions. Drizzle chive dressing over the top and season with pepper.
Gently press the baguettes closed. If packing for lunch, wrap sandwiches tightly in foil to keep everything in place.

The Best Tuna Nicoise Sandwich Recipe for a Healthy Lunch