So there's this sandwich. We've had it bookmarked for months now and every time we've gone to the pantry to see what was there, we've forgotten all about our desires to test out this Italian twist on the classic tuna lunch favorite.

But this weekend... oh, this weekend it will be ours!

We like beans and we like tuna and although we rarely use them together, this dish packs a punch of flavor while leaving our wallets full of the green stuff. We love that it uses items from the pantry without a high overhead and the ingredients can be stocked year round for a quick snack (assuming you have a better memory than we do!

It makes for a prettier presentation than your average tuna sandwich and could even be served to guests if you're entertaining or picnicking. Best of all, it's mayo free so it travels well! Good bread will help on this one; a soft sliced sandwich loaf won't cut it. Try something a bit crustier or even something that comes in "roll" form!

• Get the recipe: Tuscan Tuna-and-Bean Sandwiches at Epicurious

Related: Vegetarian Lunch: Chickpea of the Sea

Image: Epicurious