Nicoise Tuna Salad Sandwich

Who doesn't love a good sandwich and with a little extra effort, they can be special. Good bread is important. I get mine from our superb local bakery, Turtle Bread. Their baguettes are perfection and their Honey Whole Wheat includes croissant dough scraps. Need I say more? 

This is a grown-up version of the tuna I had as a kid. Back then it was filled with tiny pieces of celery and pickles. This one has artichoke hearts and olives. It reminds me a bit of a nicoise salad or pan bagnat...kind of south-of-France and FULL of flavor. But both have the crunchy, creamy texture that makes tuna salad so satisfying. 

Nicoise Tuna Salad 

Makes enough for 2 sandwiches

1 can olive oil-packed tuna, drained

2 tablespoons canned artichoke hearts, drained well, patted with a towel and chopped

2 tablespoons red onion, diced

1 tablespoon fresh basil or parsley chopped

4-5 kalamata or other brine cured black olive, slivered

1/2 teaspoon capers, drained and chopped

1/2 teaspoon garlic (about half a clove), minced

1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

2 tablespoons mayonnaise

Pinch salt

Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Hard-boiled egg, sliced (optional)
Tomato slices (optional)

Mix everything together and serve.