Maltese Tuna Ftira (Ftira biz-Zejt)

Maltese Tuna Ftira (Ftira biz-Zejt)

Tuna ftira is Malta’s answer to the ultimate Mediterranean sandwich. Built on crusty, chewy ftira bread and filled with oil-packed tuna, ripe tomatoes, olives, onions, and capers, it’s a bold, rustic bite that locals enjoy on the beach, on the go, or at home. It’s salty, fresh, and packed with character — a true taste of the Maltese islands.

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Course: Breakfast, Lunch

Cuisine: Maltese

Keyword: Breakfast, Lunch, Malta, maltese food, Maltese Lunch, Traditional Maltese

Prep Time: 10

Total Time: 10

Servings: ftira

Calories: 533kcal

Ingredients

1 small ftira bread roll ~150 g
60 g tuna in olive oil drained slightly
30 g fresh tomato sliced
10 g red or white onion finely sliced
1 tbsp capers optional
6 –8 olives black or green, pitted and halved
Fresh mint or basil optional
Sea salt & cracked pepper to taste
Extra virgin olive oil to drizzle

Start Cooking

Instructions

Slice the ftira roll in half horizontally.
Drizzle both sides with a little olive oil.
Layer the tuna, tomato, onion, capers, and olives evenly on the bottom half.
Season with salt and pepper, and add herbs if using.
Press the top half of the bread down firmly to help the flavors merge.
Serve immediately, or wrap and let rest for 15–30 minutes for even better flavor.

Notes

For a spicy kick, add a few slices of fresh chili or a smear of harissa.

This sandwich travels well — perfect for beach days or picnics.

Swap the tuna for anchovies or local ġbejna cheese for a vegetarian version.

Nutrition

Calories: 533kcal | Carbohydrates: 77.1g | Protein: 29.5g | Fat: 10.9g