Are you looking for a quick and delicious meal that’s packed with protein? Look no further than canned tuna! With its rich flavor and versatility, it’s no wonder why tuna has become a staple in many kitchens. But what to do with it can be overwhelming – especially if you’re short on time or inspiration. Fear not, dear reader! In this article, we’ll dive into the world of tuna recipes that are easy to make, delicious, and perfect for any meal of the day.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick lunch or a family looking for a healthy dinner option, we’ve got you covered with our top 20 simple and easy tuna recipes. From classic combinations like pasta salad and casserole to innovative ideas like sushi rolls and quesadillas, we’ll explore it all in the following pages.
Tuna Pasta Salad
A quick and easy salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner, packed with tuna, pasta, and a hint of Mediterranean flavor.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (such as bow-tie or penne)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup of red onion, thinly sliced
– 2 tbsp. of olive oil
– 1 tsp. of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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, red onion, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Easy Tuna Casserole
A classic comfort food dish that’s quick to prepare and delightful to eat, this easy tuna casserole is a perfect solution for a weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of cooked pasta (such as macaroni or fusilli)
– 1 cup of frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup of milk
– 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of butter, melted
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tuna, pasta, peas and carrots, milk, and shredded cheese. Mix well.
3. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
4. Drizzle the melted butter over the top of the casserole.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is hot and the cheese is golden brown.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Melt Sandwich
Tuna Melt Sandwich Recipe
A classic comfort food, this tuna melt sandwich is a simple yet satisfying meal that can be prepared in no time. With canned tuna and melted cheese on toasted bread, it’s the perfect solution for a quick lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 2 slices of bread
– Lettuce, tomato, and onion (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick pan or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Place one slice of bread in the pan and spread half of the tuna mixture on top.
4. Sprinkle with shredded cheese and add lettuce, tomato, and onion if desired.
5. Top with the second slice of bread and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the bread is toasted.
6. Flip the sandwich over and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the other side is also toasted.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5-6 minutes
Tuna Avocado Toast
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing tuna avocado toast, perfect for a quick and nutritious bite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon juice, chopped fresh herbs (such as parsley or dill)
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Mix the canned tuna with a pinch of salt and pepper.
4. Spoon the tuna mixture over the avocado.
5. Add a squeeze of lemon juice and some chopped fresh herbs if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers
Elevate your snack game with this simple and flavorful recipe that combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the protein-packed goodness of tuna. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, this dish is sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 1/2 cup of cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, rice, onion, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each bell pepper with the tuna mixture, filling them as full as possible.
4. Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender and the filling is heated through.
6. If using cheese, sprinkle on top of the peppers during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Nicoise Salad
A classic French-inspired salad that combines the rich flavors of tuna with the creaminess of eggs and the crunch of vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, eggs, cherry tomatoes, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna Sushi Rolls
A classic sushi roll filled with tender tuna, perfect for a quick and delicious snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the tuna, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Lay the nori sheet flat on a cutting board or other 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. Roll the sushi using your fingers and a bamboo sushi mat (if desired).
7. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and wasabi.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tuna and Rice Bowl
A simple yet satisfying meal that combines the flavors of fresh tuna, savory rice, and crunchy vegetables. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and green onions)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sliced green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the white rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the sesame oil over medium-high heat. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the soy sauce and flaked tuna.
4. To assemble the bowls, place a scoop of cooked rice on the bottom, followed by the vegetable mixture, and finally the tuna-soy mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sliced green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Patties with Lemon Aioli
Tuna Patties with Lemon Aioli Recipe
A refreshing twist on traditional tuna patties, this recipe adds a burst of citrusy flavor from the lemon aioli. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Lemon Aioli ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 minced garlic clove
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, egg, Dijon mustard, and parsley. Mix well.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into 4-6 patties depending on desired size.
4. Add a small amount of vegetable oil to the preheated skillet. Cook the patties for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
5. While the patties are cooking, prepare the Lemon Aioli by mixing mayonnaise, lemon juice, and garlic in a bowl.
6. Serve the tuna patties with a dollop of Lemon Aioli on top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna and White Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the savory flavor of tuna with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of white tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, 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 coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna Mac and Cheese
This recipe combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the protein-packed goodness of canned tuna, making for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add flour and whisk together to make a roux, cooking for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring until smooth.
5. Stir in cooked macaroni, tuna, salt, and pepper.
6. Transfer mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated cheese if desired.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Lettuce Wraps
These refreshing wraps are a perfect blend of protein-packed tuna salad and crisp lettuce leaves. A simple and healthy snack or light lunch option that’s quick to prepare!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– Optional: chopped onion, celery, or capers for added flavor
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Lay a lettuce leaf flat on a plate or surface.
3. Place about 1/4 cup of the tuna salad in the center of the lettuce leaf.
4. Fold the lettuce leaves over the filling to form a wrap.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Tuna and Corn Chowder
This hearty chowder recipe combines the flaky texture of tuna with the sweetness of corn, all wrapped up in a rich and creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups of frozen corn kernels
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of chicken broth
– 1/2 cup of heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Melt the butter in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the tuna, corn kernels, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Pizza with Arugula
This recipe combines the savory flavor of tuna with the peppery taste of arugula, all on top of a crispy crust. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh arugula
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Shredded mozzarella cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together tuna, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Spread the tuna mixture evenly over the pizza crust.
4. Top with arugula leaves and sprinkle with lemon juice.
5. If desired, add shredded mozzarella cheese on top.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the crust is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna and Egg Salad
This classic combination of tuna, eggs, and herbs makes a delicious and protein-packed salad perfect for lunch or dinner. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a tasty and healthy meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, diced
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, eggs, and mayonnaise.
2. Stir until well combined, breaking up any clumps with a fork.
3. Add the chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the mixture among the 4 lettuce leaves, placing each leaf on a plate or serving dish.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna Quesadillas
Tuna Quesadillas Recipe
A twist on traditional quesadillas, this recipe combines the savory flavor of tuna with melted cheese and crispy tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of chopped onion
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 large flour tortilla
– Cooking spray or oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, and chopped onion until well combined.
3. Place the tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on one half of the tortilla.
4. Spoon the tuna mixture on top of the cheese, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
8. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Tuna and Cucumber Bites
A refreshing and healthy appetizer or snack that combines the flavors of tuna, cucumber, and cream cheese on toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 large cucumber, peeled and thinly sliced
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, cut into 1-inch slices
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, cucumber, cream cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the tuna mixture onto each bread slice.
5. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until lightly toasted.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna Fried Rice
A classic Chinese-inspired dish that’s quick, easy, and packed with protein-rich tuna. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can of tuna in water (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 eggs, beaten
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook until translucent (2-3 minutes).
3. Push onion aside; add garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in mixed vegetables; stir-fry until thawed and tender.
5. Add cooked rice, tuna flakes, and soy sauce. Stir-fry until combined.
6. Make a well in the center of the mixture; pour in beaten eggs.
7. Scramble eggs until cooked through; mix with the rest of the ingredients.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Chickpea Salad
Tuna and Chickpea Salad Recipe
Summary: This protein-packed salad combines the rich flavor of tuna with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a refreshing medley of greens and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, chickpeas, mixed greens, red bell pepper, and cucumber.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and sprinkle with Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing twist on classic bruschetta, featuring succulent tuna and flavorful Mediterranean flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 4-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of Kalamata olives, pitted
– 2 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons of fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1-inch thick rounds
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together tuna, cherry tomatoes, olives, olive oil, garlic, and parsley.
3. Arrange the bread slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon the tuna mixture onto the toasted bread rounds.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the flavors of the sea with these 20 simple and delicious tuna recipes. From classic dishes like Tuna Pasta Salad and Tuna Melt Sandwich to more innovative creations like Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers and Tuna Quesadillas, there’s something for every taste bud. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a satisfying dinner, these recipes are sure to please. Discover the versatility of tuna and elevate your mealtime with these mouth-watering ideas.
