Are you looking for new and exciting ways to prepare tuna? Look no further! Tuna is a versatile ingredient that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic comfort foods to international-inspired meals. In this article, we’ll explore 19 mouth-watering tuna recipes that are easy to make and sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From hearty casseroles to fresh sushi rolls, our list features a range of tuna-based recipes that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these recipes are designed to be approachable and adaptable to your needs.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into each recipe in detail, sharing tips, tricks, and variations to help you get started. So grab your apron and let’s dive into the world of tuna cooking!
Tuna Pasta Salad
This classic tuna pasta salad is a quick and easy meal or snack option that’s perfect for any time of day. With its creamy dressing, tender pasta, and savory tuna, it’s sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine flaked tuna, mayonnaise, and chopped parsley. Mix well to combine.
3. Add cooked pasta to the tuna mixture and stir until coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of salad and serve.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Easy Tuna Casserole
Easy Tuna Casserole Recipe
A classic comfort food recipe that’s quick to make and delicious to eat, this Easy Tuna Casserole is a great option for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of cooked macaroni
– 1/2 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, macaroni, peas and carrots, and milk. Mix well.
3. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with butter.
4. Add the tuna mixture to the prepared baking dish and top with shredded cheese.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Melt Sandwich
A classic comfort food, this tuna melt sandwich is a simple yet satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time. Fresh tuna, melted cheese, and crispy bread come together to create a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 2 slices of bread
– 2 slices of cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and chopped onion until well combined.
3. Place one slice of bread on the pan and top with the tuna mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Place one slice of cheese on top of the tuna.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
7. Assemble the second sandwich with the remaining ingredients.
8. Serve hot, garnished with lettuce leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls
Add a burst of flavor to your sushi game with this simple recipe that combines the classic combination of tuna and avocado with a spicy kick. With just a few ingredients and some basic cooking skills, you’ll be enjoying delicious Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cup of short-grain Japanese rice (cooked according to package instructions)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, sesame oil, and red pepper flakes.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place a few pieces of flaked tuna and sliced avocado in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tuna Avocado Wrap
This recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado with the protein-packed punch of tuna, all wrapped up in a crispy whole wheat tortilla. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1/2 cup mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 whole wheat tortilla
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine tuna, avocado, mixed greens, and red onion.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay the tortilla flat on a clean surface and spoon the tuna-avocado mixture onto the center of the wrap.
4. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll into a neat cylinder.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers
A healthy and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines canned tuna with sautéed onions and bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
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 skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened.
4. In a bowl, combine tuna, cooked rice, and sautéed onions.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the tuna mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until peppers are tender.
8. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted (if using).
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna and White Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the protein-packed flavor of tuna with the creamy texture of white beans, perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of white beans (such as cannellini or navy), drained and rinsed
– 1 can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup of chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the white beans, tuna, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the bean and tuna mixture, and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None
Grilled Tuna Steak
A flavorful and healthy recipe that’s perfect for a quick dinner or lunch. This grilled tuna steak is marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, honey, and lemon juice, then grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, lemon juice, garlic, and sesame oil.
3. Place tuna steaks in a shallow dish and brush the marinade on both sides of the fish.
4. Let marinate for 15-20 minutes, or up to 30 minutes in the refrigerator if desired.
5. Grill tuna steaks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your liking.
6. Serve immediately and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes
Tuna Nicoise Salad
This Tuna Nicoise Salad is a flavorful and refreshing twist on the classic Niçoise salad, featuring seared tuna, crispy vegetables, and creamy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place tuna steaks on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and sear for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine eggs, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and green olives.
4. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and white wine vinegar. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Assemble the salad by placing the tuna on top of the vegetable mixture. Drizzle the dressing over the tuna.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Patties with Lemon Dill Sauce
A refreshing twist on traditional tuna patties, this recipe combines the flaky fish with a zesty lemon dill sauce for a perfect balance of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon Dill Sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill, salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, panko breadcrumbs, onion, egg, Dijon mustard, and lemon zest. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a pattie.
4. Place the patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the Lemon Dill Sauce by mixing all ingredients in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tuna and Rice Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s easy to prepare and packed with protein-rich tuna, creamy sauce, and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup butter, melted
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, tuna, peas and carrots, melted butter, milk, and cream of mushroom soup. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese on top.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder is a perfect blend of tuna, corn, and creamy goodness. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal on a chilly day!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute.
5. Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened.
7. Add the tuna, corn kernels, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
8. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Cucumber Sushi
This refreshing sushi recipe combines the flavors of seared tuna and crunchy cucumber with a hint of sesame oil, perfect for a light and satisfying meal. With only a few ingredients, you can create this delicious treat in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 6 ounces tuna sashimi-grade, seared and diced
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions with 1/4 cup water.
2. Cut the avocado and cucumber into thin slices.
3. In a small pan, heat the sesame oil over low heat. Add the diced tuna and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place a few slices of avocado, cucumber, and seared tuna in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo sushi mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna Tartare with Avocado
A refreshing twist on traditional tuna tartare, this recipe adds creamy avocado and a touch of citrus for a bright and zesty flavor profile.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of high-quality tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, avocado, lime juice, and garlic.
2. Mix gently until the ingredients are well combined, being careful not to break up the tuna or over-mix.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
5. Just before serving, garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Tuna and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a protein-packed twist on traditional breakfast muffins! These tuna and egg breakfast muffins are perfect for a quick morning meal or as a snack to keep you going throughout the day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 4 eggs
– 1/2 cup whole wheat pastry flour
– 1/4 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 teaspoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, tuna, flour, oats, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add melted butter and mix until combined.
4. Pour mixture into 6-8 muffin cups lined with paper liners.
5. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of each muffin.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Chickpea Salad
A refreshing and protein-packed salad perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this tuna and chickpea salad is a great way to get your daily dose of omega-3s and fiber.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, chickpeas, red bell pepper, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna and Pasta Bake
Tasty Tuna and Pasta Bake Recipe
This classic recipe is a comforting and satisfying meal that’s perfect for any day of the week. With its rich flavors and easy preparation, it’s no wonder this dish has become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta of your choice
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (e.g., cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, onions)
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook the pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add the tuna and stir well to combine with the vegetables.
5. In a separate bowl, mix together the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
6. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, combine the cooked pasta, tuna mixture, and cheese mixture. Stir gently to combine.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Serve hot and garnish with fresh parsley. Enjoy your delicious Tuna and Pasta Bake!
Tuna and Sweet Potato Hash
This recipe combines the savory flavors of tuna with the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes, creating a delicious and nutritious breakfast or brunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss sweet potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes, or until tender.
4. In a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
5. Add flaked tuna to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Once sweet potatoes are cooked, add them to the skillet and stir to combine with the tuna mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tuna and Spinach Quiche
This quiche is a great way to start your day with a flavorful and healthy breakfast. The combination of tuna, spinach, and eggs makes for a protein-packed meal that’s sure to keep you satisfied until lunchtime.
Ingredients:
– 1 pie crust
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 3 large eggs
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust and place it in a 9-inch tart pan with a removable bottom.
3. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
4. In a separate bowl, combine tuna, spinach, and shredded cheese.
5. Pour the egg mixture over the tuna mixture and mix well.
6. Pour the quiche filling into the pie crust and smooth out the top.
7. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the eggs are set and the crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Summary
Get ready to reel in some deliciousness with these 19 easy-to-make tuna recipes! From classic tuna pasta salad and casserole to more adventurous options like spicy tuna sushi rolls and tuna stuffed bell peppers, there’s something for every taste bud. Plus, enjoy some unexpected twists like tuna and avocado wrap or tuna breakfast muffins. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for a quick and easy meal, these recipes are sure to hook you in.
