Joe & The Juice Tuna Sandwich Copycat Recipe: Make the Famous Tunacado at Home

Something about the Joe & The Juice Tuna Sandwich — often called the Tunacado — keeps people returning for more. Maybe it’s the velvety tuna mousse, the buttery avocado, or that Nordic-style flatbread crisped to perfection. Whatever it is, this sandwich has become a cult favorite among food lovers, and today, we’re bringing that craveable experience into your kitchen.

I still remember the first time I tried the Tunacado at Joe & The Juice. It was light yet filling, creamy yet tangy, and irresistible grilled bread crunch. Since then, I’ve been perfecting a version to enjoy at home. And now I’m sharing the ultimate Joe & The Juice Tuna Sandwich copycat recipe so you can recreate it, too—no line, no overpriced café, just pure homemade joy.

What Makes the Joe & The Juice Tuna Sandwich So Special?

The magic lies in the balance of texture and flavor:

• Creamy tuna mousse
• Ripe avocado slices
• Tangy sun-dried tomatoes
• Crispy flatbread with a Nordic twist

This sandwich stands out for its Scandinavian-style bread, clean ingredients, and protein-rich profile. It’s ideal for quick lunches or post-gym meals. It’s simple, innovative, and loaded with flavor.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Below is a breakdown of all ingredients needed for the copycat version of the Joe & The Juice Tuna Sandwich.

Tuna Mousse Ingredients

Sandwich Assembly Ingredients

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Tuna Mousse

Mix the tuna, mayonnaise, olive oil, and lemon juice in a small bowl. If using, stir in the Dijon mustard for a little extra zip. Season with salt and pepper and mix until smooth. For an ultra-creamy consistency, pulse briefly in a mini food processor.

Step 2: Toast the Bread

Heat a skillet or panini press over medium heat. Brush the flatbread with olive oil or butter and toast both sides until lightly golden and crispy.

Step 3: Build the Sandwich

Spread a thick layer of tuna mousse on one slice of toasted bread. Top with sliced avocado, sun-dried tomatoes, and optional greens. Finish with the second slice of bread.

Step 4: Optional Final Grill

For an authentic touch, lightly grill the fully assembled sandwich in a press for 1–2 minutes to melt the flavors together.

Tips for Getting It Just Right

• Use sustainably sourced tuna for the best flavor and ethics.
• Avocados should be ripe but not mushy.
• Try thin sourdough rye or crisp whole grain pita if you can’t find Nordic flatbread.
• Want a bit of spice? Add chili flakes to the tuna or drizzle with sriracha.

Serving Ideas and Creative Variations

The Tunacado copycat sandwich is delicious, but can be even better with the right pairings or flavor twists. Here are some easy ways to serve it or mix things up.

Perfect Sides to Serve With It

Pairing the sandwich with a simple side dish can turn this into a full meal. Here are a few favorites:

• Mixed greens salad: Toss olive oil, lemon juice, and a pinch of sea salt for a fresh bite.
• Sweet potato fries: Baked or air-fried, these add a touch of sweetness and crunch.
• Cucumber salad: Thinly sliced cucumbers with vinegar, dill, and a pinch of sugar.
• Soup pairing: Try a light vegetable soup or tomato basil for a warm contrast.

Flavor Twists to Try

Try a small change next time if you’ve made the sandwich once. These ideas keep things exciting:

• Add spice: A few red pepper flakes in the tuna mousse or a drizzle of sriracha before grilling.
• Herb it up: Add fresh dill or chopped chives for a sharper taste.
• Swap the spread: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a tangier, lighter mousse.
• Change the bread: Whole wheat pita, sourdough, or a wrap can offer new textures.

Make It a Meal Prep Staple

The tuna mousse can be your best friend for busy weeks. Store a double batch in the fridge for up to 3 days. Here’s how to use it:

• As a dip: Serve with sliced cucumbers or crackers.
• In a wrap: Add shredded lettuce and roll it into a tortilla.
• On toast: Great for a quick breakfast or snack.

Breakfast Version

You can even turn this sandwich into a protein-packed breakfast:

• Toast the bread.
• Spread the tuna mousse.
• Add a poached or fried egg on top.
• Sprinkle with microgreens or sprouts.

It’s simple, filling, and gets your day started right.

Family-Friendly Options

If you’re making this for kids or picky eaters:

• Skip the sun-dried tomatoes and use thin tomato slices.
• Add a slice of cheese like cheddar or provolone for extra meltiness.
• Cut into smaller triangles for easier handling.

Nutritional Information

Here’s an estimated breakdown per serving:

Why This Copycat Recipe Is a Winner

You’ll love this Joe & The Juice Tuna Sandwich copycat recipe for so many reasons:

• It’s budget-friendly.
• Quick to make (under 15 minutes).
• Perfect for meal prep — the tuna mousse stores well.
• Balanced macros for a healthy lunch.

Whether you’re trying to avoid takeout or love creating café-style meals at home, this version hits the spot. And if you’re into Nordic cuisine or inspired sandwiches, this one’s an absolute must.

How to Store and Make Ahead for Busy Days

One of the best things about this sandwich is how easy it is to prep ahead. Whether you’re packing lunch for work or planning meals for the week, the Tunacado copycat fits right in.

Store the Tuna Mousse

The tuna mousse keeps well in the fridge.

• After making it, store it in an airtight container.
• It stays fresh for up to 3 days.
• Stir before each use to bring back the creamy texture.

If you want it extra smooth each time, give it a quick blend before spreading.

Keep Avocados Fresh

Avocados can brown quickly, but there are ways to slow it down.

• Slice the avocado fresh just before serving, when possible.
• If prepping in advance, sprinkle the slices with lemon juice and wrap tightly in plastic or store in an airtight container.
• You can also mash the avocado with lemon juice and use it as a spread.

That way, you still get the same flavor but with easier storage.

Toast and Store the Bread

Nordic flatbread or rye bread can be toasted ahead of time.

• Toast the bread lightly and let it cool completely.
• Then store it in a zip-top bag or an airtight container at room temperature for up to 2 days.
• Warm it in a dry skillet or toaster before building the sandwich to re-crisp.

This makes your lunch come together in under 2 minutes!

Assemble When Ready

To keep everything tasting fresh, assemble the sandwich right before eating.

• If packing for later, layer the tuna mousse first, greens or basil, and avocado last.
• Wrap the sandwich tightly in parchment or wax paper.
• Keep it chilled until ready to eat.

Avoid pressing the sandwich in advance. It’s best to do it just before eating so the bread stays crisp and the ingredients stay cool.

Can You Freeze It?

Freezing the whole sandwich isn’t ideal due to the avocado. But you can freeze components:

• Tuna mousse can be frozen for up to 1 month. Thaw in the fridge overnight.
• Avoid freezing avocado or greens—they lose texture.
• Bread can be frozen and reheated with good results.

So if you want to meal prep, make a big batch of tuna mousse and freeze portions in small containers.

Joe & The Juice Tuna Sandwich Copycat Recipe: Make the Famous Tunacado at Home

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• Author: Jack Morgan
• Total Time: 15 minutes
• Yield: 1 sandwich 1x

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Description

Recreate the cult-favorite Tunacado sandwich from Joe & The Juice with this easy, healthy, and flavorful copycat recipe. Featuring creamy tuna mousse, ripe avocado, and sun-dried tomatoes on crisp Nordic flatbread, it’s the perfect café-style sandwich to enjoy at home in under 15 minutes.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Tuna Mousse:

• 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained

• 2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)

• 1 tsp lemon juice

• Salt & pepper to taste

Sandwich Assembly:

• 2 slices Nordic flatbread or thin rye

• ½ avocado, sliced

• 2–3 slices sun-dried tomatoes

• A few fresh basil or arugula leaves (optional)

• Olive oil or butter for grilling

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Instructions

1. Prepare the Tuna Mousse:
   Mix tuna, mayonnaise, olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard (if using). Add salt and pepper. Blend for extra creaminess.

2. Toast the Flatbread:
   Brush flatbread with olive oil or butter and toast in a skillet or panini press until golden and crispy.

3. Assemble the Sandwich:
   Spread tuna mousse on one slice of toasted bread. Add avocado slices, sun-dried tomatoes, and greens. Top with the second slice.

4. Grill (Optional):
   Lightly press the full sandwich for 1–2 minutes to meld flavors.

Notes

Use sustainably sourced tuna for better flavor and ethics.

The avocado should be ripe but firm.

Substitute Nordic flatbread with sourdough rye or whole grain pita.

Store leftover tuna mousse for up to 3 days.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 5 minutes
• Category: Sandwich
• Method: Grilled
• Cuisine: Nordic-Inspired

Keywords: Tunacado, Joe & The Juice tuna sandwich, tuna mousse sandwich, avocado sandwich, Nordic sandwich, copycat recipe, healthy tuna sandwich