Tuna and Egg Stuffed Toast Bites are savory, bite-sized appetizers that combine the richness of hard-boiled eggs with the briny depth of tuna, the freshness of parsley, the creaminess of mayonnaise, and the delightful crunch of toasted bread. These versatile, protein-rich bites are balanced with Mediterranean Provencal herbs and brightened with capers for a tangy punch. Bound together by toothpicks and cut into neat cubes or triangles, these mini sandwiches can be served warm or cold, making them ideal for entertaining or meal prepping. The contrast of textures — creamy filling and crispy toast — plus the harmony of salty, tangy, and herbal flavors make this simple recipe a surprising showstopper. Perfect for brunch spreads, afternoon tea, or elegant party platters.
Preparation, cook, and total times, cuisine
This recipe is quick, easy, and requires minimal cooking — just boiling the eggs and lightly toasting the bread.
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Preparation time: 15 minutes
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Cook time: 10 minutes (mainly for boiling eggs and toasting bread)
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Total time: 25 minutes
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Cuisine: Mediterranean-inspired appetizer/snack
A full list of ingredients
Make sure you have the following ingredients on hand:
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5 eggs
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1 tsp salt
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6–8 slices of toast bread (white or whole grain, depending on preference)
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Toothpicks (for serving and securing bites)
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Olive oil (for toasting bread)
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Provencal herbs (dried herb mix typically including thyme, rosemary, oregano, basil, and marjoram)
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1 can of tuna (in water or oil, drained)
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1–2 tbsp mayonnaise
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Capers (as desired, roughly 1 tbsp recommended)
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30 grams (1 oz) of ham (diced or sliced thin)
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Fresh parsley (for garnish and subtle flavor)
Step-by-step cooking directions
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Boil the eggs
Place the 5 eggs in a pot, cover with water, and add a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil and cook for about 9–10 minutes until hard-boiled. Cool them under cold running water and peel once cool enough to handle. -
Prepare the filling
In a bowl, mash the hard-boiled eggs using a fork or potato masher. Add the drained tuna and mix well. Stir in the mayonnaise and season with a pinch of salt and a dash of Provencal herbs. Fold in the capers and finely chopped parsley. Optional: mix in small pieces of ham or reserve them for layering. -
Toast the bread
Lightly brush each slice of bread with olive oil and sprinkle with Provencal herbs. Toast in a skillet or toaster oven until golden and crisp. -
Assemble the bites
Once the toast has cooled slightly, spread the egg and tuna mixture on half of the bread slices. If using sliced ham, add a layer on top of the filling. Cover with another slice of toast. -
Cut into bite-sized pieces
Using a sharp knife, trim off crusts (optional) and cut the sandwiches into quarters, either as squares or triangles. Secure each piece with a toothpick for easy handling. -
Garnish and serve
Plate the bites on a serving tray and sprinkle with extra chopped parsley for a fresh finish. Serve immediately or chill for 15–30 minutes before serving for a firmer texture.
Nutritional information (per 2–3 bites)
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Calories: ~160–180
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Protein: 9–10g
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Fat: 10g
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Carbohydrates: 6–8g
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Fiber: 0.5–1g
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Sodium: ~350mg
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Cholesterol: ~100mg
The origins and popularity of the recipe
This appetizer brings together Mediterranean ingredients with classic European picnic flavors. Tuna and eggs are a common pairing in French and Spanish cuisines, often found in Niçoise-style dishes. Capers and herbs de Provence enhance the flavor with herbal, briny brightness. While this specific assembly is a modern finger-food interpretation, the combination is timeless and rooted in regional cooking traditions, especially from coastal France and Italy, where tuna, olive oil, and herbs are pantry staples.
Reasons why you’ll love the recipe
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It’s quick and easy to prepare
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Full of protein and healthy fats
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Perfect for parties, lunchboxes, or snacks
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Customizable with pantry-friendly ingredients
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Ideal for make-ahead and crowd-pleasing presentations
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Pairs well with salads, soups, or wine
Health benefits
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Eggs are a complete protein source and rich in choline, supporting brain health
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Tuna provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids
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Olive oil contains heart-healthy monounsaturated fats
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Parsley offers antioxidants and vitamin K
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Capers are rich in flavonoids and add flavor without needing extra salt
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The dish is satisfying while being low in carbs
Serving suggestions
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Serve with a side of olives, cherry tomatoes, or pickled vegetables
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Pair with a glass of crisp white wine (like Sauvignon Blanc)
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Add to a brunch board with cheeses, fruits, and crackers
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Great for tea parties or elegant buffet tables
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Serve with a light green salad and vinaigrette for lunch
Cooking tips
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Use stale or day-old bread for better toasting texture
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Finely dice the eggs for a smoother filling
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Drain the tuna very well to avoid soggy bites
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Chill the filling slightly before assembling for easier spreading
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Add a pinch of garlic powder or Dijon mustard for extra flavor
Variations to try
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Replace ham with smoked salmon or skip for a pescatarian version
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Add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes
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Use cream cheese or Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise
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Top each bite with a thin slice of cucumber for crunch
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Make it spicy with a few dashes of hot sauce or chili flakes
A conclusion
Tuna and Egg Stuffed Toast Bites are proof that simple ingredients can deliver bold flavor and elegant presentation. This versatile recipe is quick to whip up, easy to customize, and delicious at any temperature. Whether you’re entertaining guests, meal prepping, or simply craving a savory snack, these bites offer a delicious, protein-rich option that can be adapted to any occasion. With their mix of textures, Mediterranean-inspired flavors, and easy assembly, they’re sure to become a new favorite in your recipe rotation.
10 comprehensive FAQ section
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Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the filling up to 1 day in advance and assemble the bites a few hours before serving. -
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Best enjoyed fresh for texture. -
What herbs can I use if I don’t have Provencal herbs?
Use a mix of dried oregano, basil, thyme, and rosemary. -
Can I make it gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free bread to make it suitable for gluten-sensitive diets. -
Is this kid-friendly?
Definitely. Just omit the capers if your kids prefer milder flavors. -
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, cooked and flaked fresh tuna can be used, but canned tuna offers convenience. -
What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Try Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or light sour cream. -
Can I toast the bread in the oven?
Absolutely. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 5–7 minutes or until golden and crisp. -
Can I make this dairy-free?
Yes. Use dairy-free mayo or avocado as the binder. -
Can I make this into a sandwich instead of bites?
Of course! Just assemble the ingredients as a full sandwich and enjoy.