Are you a seafood lover looking for new ways to incorporate tuna into your diet? Look no further! Tuna is an incredibly versatile ingredient, and with its high protein content and numerous health benefits, it’s a great addition to any meal. From classic pasta dishes to international-inspired sushi rolls, we’ve got 20 mouth-watering tuna recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palate.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring different flavors and textures that showcase the best of what tuna has to offer. Whether you’re in the mood for something quick and easy or more elaborate and impressive, we’ve got a recipe to suit your taste. So dive in, get cooking, and discover the delicious possibilities of tuna!
Easy Tuna Pasta Salad
A refreshing and protein-packed salad that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a tasty meal that’s easy to customize to your taste.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., bow tie, elbow macaroni)
– 1 can tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (includes cooking pasta)
Quick Tuna Melt Sandwich
This classic sandwich is a great option when you need a satisfying meal quickly. With just a few ingredients and simple preparation, you’ll have a delicious tuna melt ready to go in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 slices of white bread
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 lettuce leaf
– 1 tomato slice (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Spread one slice of bread with mayonnaise, then top with tuna, shredded cheese, and lettuce.
3. Place the second slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
5. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
6. Serve hot with tomato slice (if using).
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Simple Tuna Avocado Wrap
Combine the creaminess of avocado with the protein-packed tuna in this easy-to-make wrap, perfect for a quick lunch or snack. With only a few ingredients and minimal preparation time, you’ll be enjoying this delightful treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Spread the mashed avocado on the center of the tortilla, leaving a 1-inch border.
2. Place the tuna on top of the avocado.
3. Sprinkle with lemon juice, salt, and pepper to taste.
4. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat wrap.
5. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This is a no-cook recipe.
Spicy Tuna Sushi Roll
Experience the perfect balance of spicy and savory with this simple recipe for Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls. This dish is a great introduction to making sushi at home, requiring only a few ingredients and basic preparation.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of short-grain Japanese rice
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon of Sriracha sauce (or to taste)
– Optional: thinly sliced green onions, toasted sesame seeds
Instructions:
1. Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, and Sriracha sauce.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the tuna mixture in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using your fingers or a bamboo sushi mat.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Garlic Butter Tuna Steak
Elevate your seafood game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of garlic butter with the tenderness of tuna steak. Perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, minced garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Place tuna steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spread the garlic butter mixture evenly over each tuna steak.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed bell peppers, this recipe combines the richness of tuna with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together tuna, rice, onion, parsley, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the tuna mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed bell peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Serve warm, topped with shredded cheddar cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Lemon Herb Tuna Patties
These flavorful tuna patties are infused with the brightness of lemon and the subtlety of herbs, making them a perfect addition to your next meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Add the lightly beaten egg to the mixture and gently fold until just combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 2-3 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
5. Cook patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as tartar sauce or a fresh salad.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Creamy Tuna Casserole
This creamy tuna casserole is a simple yet satisfying meal that combines the flavors of canned tuna, pasta, and a rich sauce. It’s an easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup pasta of your choice (e.g., macaroni, elbow macaroni)
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in cream of mushroom soup, milk, and tuna; bring to a simmer.
5. Combine cooked pasta and tuna mixture in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Top with shredded cheddar cheese and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna and White Bean Salad
A refreshing and protein-packed salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the flavors of tuna, white beans, and Mediterranean herbs for a delicious and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup of chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, cannellini beans, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Asian-Inspired Tuna Rice Bowl
Elevate your lunch game with this flavorful and nutritious tuna rice bowl, packed with the bold flavors of Asia.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 cup diced scallions (green onions)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced avocado, pickled ginger, or chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the Japanese short-grain rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Add flaked tuna and stir until combined.
3. Divide cooked rice into individual bowls.
4. Top with tuna mixture, diced scallions, salt, and pepper.
5. Garnish with sliced avocado, pickled ginger, or chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tuna Nicoise Salad
This classic French salad gets its name from the city of Nice, where it originated. This tuna-filled twist is a refreshing and flavorful take on the original.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Niçoise olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, eggs, cherry tomatoes, and olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and red wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Tuna Fried Rice
This classic Chinese-inspired dish is a staple of convenience and flavor. With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the mixed frozen vegetables and cooked tuna; cook until heated through.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes, incorporating the soy sauce and seasonings.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna and Corn Quesadilla
Tuna and Corn Quesadilla Recipe
A flavorful twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the richness of tuna with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon of cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 large flour tortillas
– 2 cups of shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– Optional: diced tomatoes, avocado, or sour cream for topping
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, corn kernels, olive oil, garlic, and cumin. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of it with cheese.
4. Spoon the tuna-corn mixture onto half of the tortilla, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Pita Pocket
Mediterranean Tuna Pita Pocket Recipe
A flavorful and refreshing twist on traditional tuna sandwiches, this Mediterranean-inspired pita pocket is packed with protein-rich tuna, crunchy veggies, and creamy hummus. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of cooked quinoa
– 1/4 cup of chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup of sliced cucumber
– 2 tablespoons of hummus
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pita bread
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together tuna, quinoa, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Add hummus and lemon juice to the bowl; stir until well combined.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cut the pita bread in half lengthwise.
5. Spoon the tuna mixture onto one half of the pita bread.
6. Top with lettuce leaves (if using).
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna and Egg Breakfast Scramble
Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast that’s easy to make and delicious to eat! This Tuna and Egg Breakfast Scramble combines the richness of tuna with the creaminess of scrambled eggs.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 2 large eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, shredded cheddar cheese, or diced bell peppers for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk them together with a fork. Add a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
2. Heat the butter or non-stick cooking spray in a medium-sized skillet over medium heat.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and scramble the eggs until they’re cooked through, breaking them up into small curds as you go.
4. Add the drained tuna to the scrambled eggs and stir well to combine.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, or until the tuna is heated through.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Baked Tuna with Tomatoes and Olives
A flavorful and healthy dish that combines the richness of tuna with the tanginess of tomatoes and olives, all baked to perfection in the oven. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the tuna steaks on the prepared baking sheet.
4. In a small bowl, mix together diced tomatoes, sliced olives, and minced garlic.
5. Spoon the tomato-olive mixture over the tuna steaks, leaving a 1-inch border around each steak.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tuna is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tuna Macaroni Salad
This classic tuna macaroni salad recipe is a simple and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for picnics, potlucks, or family gatherings. With its creamy dressing and flavorful tuna, it’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped hard-boiled egg (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flaked tuna, mayonnaise, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Stir until well combined.
3. Add the cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Just before serving, garnish with chopped hard-boiled egg (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Cucumber Bites
These bite-sized treats are perfect for a light lunch or as a snack to get your day started. The combination of tuna, cucumber, and cream cheese is a classic, and the simplicity of this recipe makes it easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 ounces cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Lay a cucumber slice flat on a surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the tuna mixture in the center of the cucumber.
3. Top with another cucumber slice to create a “sandwich”.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: None needed! These bites are best served chilled.
Tuna and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the richness of tuna with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a satisfying and nutritious breakfast or brunch dish. With its crispy texture and flavorful filling, this hash is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained), flaked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, toss sweet potato cubes with 1 tablespoon olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread sweet potatoes on a baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender and lightly browned.
4. In a large skillet, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
5. Add garlic and cooked tuna to the skillet, stirring to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. To assemble the hash, divide roasted sweet potatoes among individual plates or a serving platter. Top with tuna mixture and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna and Spinach Stuffed Shells
This unique recipe combines the flavors of tuna, spinach, and ricotta cheese to create a deliciously different stuffed shell experience.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 can (6 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 package frozen chopped spinach, thawed and drained
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, spinach, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pasta shell with the tuna-spinach mixture, placing them in a baking dish as you go.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed shells and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouthwatering tuna recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor! From classic pasta salads to innovative sushi rolls, these dishes showcase the versatility of tuna. Try making a quick tuna melt sandwich or simple tuna avocado wrap for a healthy lunch. Or, indulge in more decadent options like garlic butter tuna steak or creamy tuna casserole. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, there’s something for everyone on this list. Get cooking and explore the world of tuna recipes!
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