Are you looking for a quick, easy, and affordable way to get your daily dose of omega-3 rich tuna? Look no further! Canned tuna is a pantry staple that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic sandwiches to international-inspired meals. With its long shelf life and versatility, it’s no wonder why canned tuna has become a popular choice for home cooks.
In this article, we’ll explore the world of can tuna recipes and provide you with 18 mouth-watering ideas that are sure to inspire your next meal. From spicy pasta salads to savory sushi rolls, we’ve got you covered. So, let’s dive in and discover the many delicious ways you can use canned tuna!
Spicy Tuna Pasta Salad
This spicy tuna pasta salad combines the bold flavors of sushi-grade tuna with the creaminess of mayo and the crunch of toasted sesame seeds, all on a bed of al dente spaghetti.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in olive oil, drained and flaked
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1-2 dashes sriracha sauce (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, green onions, and toasted sesame seeds. Mix well.
3. Add cooked spaghetti to the bowl and toss until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If desired, add 1-2 dashes of sriracha sauce for an extra kick.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tuna Melt Sandwich
A classic comfort food that’s easy to make and packed with flavor, this tuna melt sandwich is a perfect addition to any meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 4 slices of bread
– 2 slices of American cheese
– Lettuce, tomato, and onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Place 2 slices of bread on the skillet and spread one half with the tuna mixture.
4. Top with a slice of American cheese and add lettuce, tomato, and onion if desired.
5. Place the other slice of bread on top to create a sandwich.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tuna Avocado Toast
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this refreshing tuna avocado toast recipe! This protein-packed treat combines the richness of tuna, creaminess of avocado, and crunch of bread for a deliciously satisfying bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges, chopped cilantro, or red pepper flakes for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Flake the tuna into small pieces and place it on top of the avocado.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with lemon wedges, chopped cilantro, or red pepper flakes if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers
A flavorful and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the richness of tuna with the sweetness of bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded 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 medium bowl, mix tuna, rice, parsley, garlic, and olive oil until well combined.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the tuna mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 15-20 minutes or until bell peppers are tender.
7. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of peppers during last 10 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Tuna and Chickpea Salad
Tuna and Chickpea Salad: A Refreshing Twist on Classic Tuna Salad
This recipe combines the protein-packed goodness of canned tuna with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all tied together with a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this salad is also great as a topping for whole grain crackers or a bed of mixed greens.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, chickpeas, and red bell pepper.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna Sushi Rolls
Create a delicious and healthy snack with this simple recipe for tuna sushi rolls. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy the perfect combination of flavors and textures.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked tuna (canned or fresh)
– 1/2 cup short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 sheet nori seaweed
– Optional fillings: cucumber, avocado, carrot, etc.
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix the cooked tuna with soy sauce and sesame oil.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a surface.
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. Add any optional fillings if desired.
7. Roll the nori and rice tightly but gently, applying even pressure.
Cooking Time: None (assembly only)
Tuna Casserole with Cheese
This creamy tuna casserole is a satisfying and easy-to-make meal perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch. With its blend of canned tuna, pasta, cheese, and crunchy crackers, it’s a comforting dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups of milk
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup of crushed crackers (e.g. Ritz or saltines)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
4. Add cooked macaroni to the tuna mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Top with crushed crackers and dot with butter.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna and Corn Fritters
These crispy fritters are a delightful twist on traditional fish and chips, packed with the flavor of tuna and sweet corn. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained), 1 cup of corn kernels, 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour, 1/4 teaspoon of paprika, 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 egg, 1 tablespoon of lemon juice, Vegetable oil for frying
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, corn kernels, flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk the egg and add lemon juice. Add this mixture to the tuna-corn mixture; stir until combined.
3. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the tuna mixture into the hot oil (about 1 tablespoon each).
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown and crispy. Drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Tuna and Corn Fritters!
Tuna Nicoise Salad
A classic French-inspired salad that combines tender tuna with creamy egg, crunchy vegetables, and savory capers, all tied together with a tangy vinaigrette. Perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 4 hard-boiled eggs, quartered
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber slices
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, eggs, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and capers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and white wine vinegar.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tuna Poke Bowl
Transform your mealtime with this refreshing and flavorful Tuna Poke Bowl recipe! Fresh tuna, mixed with soy sauce and sesame oil, is served over a bed of sushi rice and garnished with crispy sesame seeds.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sashimi-grade tuna, cut into small cubes
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 cup cooked sushi rice
– 1/4 cup diced green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil. Add the tuna cubes and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
3. To assemble the bowls, place cooked sushi rice on the bottom, followed by the marinated tuna mixture, diced green onions, and toasted sesame seeds.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes cooking time for sushi rice)
Tuna and Rice Cakes
This recipe combines the protein-packed flavor of tuna with the comforting warmth of rice cakes, making for a satisfying snack or light meal. With just a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy these tasty treats in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 6-8 rice cakes
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, cooked rice, scallions, soy sauce, and sesame oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place a spoonful of the tuna mixture onto each rice cake.
4. Cook the rice cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until crispy and golden brown.
5. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna Quiche with Spinach
This quiche combines the savory flavors of tuna, spinach, and cheese for a satisfying and nutritious meal. Perfect for brunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 9-inch pie crust
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 large eggs
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Roll out the pie crust and place in a 9-inch tart pan.
3. In a bowl, mix tuna, spinach, cheese, milk, and eggs.
4. Pour mixture into the pie crust and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
6. Let cool for 10 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna and Cucumber Bites
A refreshing appetizer or snack that combines the flavors of tuna, cucumber, and cream cheese.
Ingredients:
• 1 can of tuna (drained)
• 1/2 cup of cream cheese softened
• 1/4 cup of finely chopped cucumber
• 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Crackers or toasted bread for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the tuna, cream cheese, and chopped cucumber until well combined.
3. Season with salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
4. Spoon the mixture onto crackers or toasted bread, about 1-2 teaspoons per serving.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 10-12 minutes, or until lightly toasted.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna Patties with Lemon Dill Sauce
Elevate your tuna game with these crispy patties and a refreshing lemon dill sauce. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon dill sauce ingredients: 1/2 cup Greek yogurt, 1 tablespoon freshly chopped dill, 1 tablespoon lemon juice, salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, panko breadcrumbs, onion, egg, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side or until golden brown.
5. Meanwhile, whisk together yogurt, dill, lemon juice, and a pinch of salt for the sauce.
6. Serve tuna patties with lemon dill sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna and White Bean Salad
A refreshing and protein-packed salad that combines the rich flavor of tuna with the creamy texture of white beans, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of canned cannellini beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 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-sized 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 or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None required! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Tuna Fried Rice
A simple and flavorful recipe that combines the protein-packed goodness of tuna with the comforting warmth of fried rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style short-grain rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked), 120g
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
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 2 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir-fry the mixed vegetables for 2-3 minutes, until they start to soften.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
6. Mix in the flaked tuna and soy sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the Tuna Fried Rice to a serving platter or individual bowls. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Sweet Potato Cakes
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional fish cakes, these Tuna and Sweet Potato Cakes are packed with protein and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, sweet potatoes, panko breadcrumbs, egg, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cake size.
3. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of cooking oil or non-stick cooking spray in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the cakes for about 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from heat and serve hot with your favorite accompaniments.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Tuna and Pasta Bake
A simple yet satisfying dish that combines the protein-packed power of tuna with the comfort of pasta, all wrapped up in a cheesy bake. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 250g pasta (e.g., penne or fusilli)
– 1 can (120g) tuna in oil, drained and flaked
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 180°C (350°F).
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Add tuna, mixed vegetables, and cooked pasta to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with cheddar cheese and breadcrumbs.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to sink your teeth into these 18 mouth-watering can tuna recipes! From classic comfort foods to innovative twists, this collection has something for everyone. Satisfy your cravings with Spicy Tuna Pasta Salad, Tuna Melt Sandwich, or Tuna Avocado Toast. Try new flavors with Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers, Tuna and Chickpea Salad, or Tuna Sushi Rolls. Or, go old-school with Tuna Casserole with Cheese, Tuna and Corn Fritters, or Tuna Nicoise Salad. With these easy recipes, you’ll be hooked on can tuna in no time!
