18 Crispy Tuna Cakes Recipes with Zesty Flavors

Are you a seafood lover looking to spice up your meal routine? Look no further than these 18 Crispy Tuna Cakes Recipes with Zesty Flavors! From spicy sriracha to sweet and tangy, we’ve got the perfect collection of tuna cake recipes that will take your taste buds on a wild ride.

In this article, we’ll be exploring the world of tuna cakes, where crunchy textures meet bold flavors. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and simple or adventurous and exotic, our selection has got you covered. With options ranging from Asian-inspired to Mediterranean-style, there’s something for every palate and preference.

In this series of recipes, we’ll be diving into the world of tuna cakes and uncovering the secrets to making the perfect patty. From cleverly incorporating herbs and spices to mastering the art of crispy breading, we’ll be sharing our favorite tips and tricks to elevate your tuna cake game.

So, without further ado, let’s dive into our collection of 18 Crispy Tuna Cakes Recipes with Zesty Flavors!

Spicy Sriracha Tuna Cakes with Avocado Lime Sauce

Elevate your appetizer game with these spicy tuna cakes, infused with the bold flavor of sriracha and served with a refreshing avocado lime sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Avocado lime sauce (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, red onion, garlic, sriracha sauce, and egg. Mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cake size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Place the patties on the prepared baking sheet and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the avocado lime sauce (see below).
6. Serve tuna cakes with avocado lime sauce and enjoy!

Avocado Lime Sauce:

– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Lemon Herb Tuna Cakes with Garlic Aioli

Elevate your tuna game with these flavorful cakes, infused with bright lemon and herby notes, served with a creamy garlic aioli for dipping. Perfect as an appetizer or light meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp chopped fresh dill
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Garlic Aioli (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix tuna with panko breadcrumbs, lemon juice, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Divide mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cake size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Heat olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Cook cakes for 2-3 minutes per side, until golden brown.
5. Serve immediately with Garlic Aioli (recipe below).

Garlic Aioli:

– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Mix all ingredients in a bowl until smooth. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Panko-Crusted Tuna Cakes with Sweet Chili Dip

Experience the perfect fusion of crispy and savory in these Panko-crusted tuna cakes, served with a sweet and spicy chili dip.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for frying
– Sweet Chili Dip (recipe below)

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, mix together tuna, panko breadcrumbs, egg, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
3. Dip each patty in beaten eggs and then coat with panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Fry the patties for 2-3 minutes on each side, until golden brown.
5. Serve immediately with Sweet Chili Dip (recipe below).

Sweet Chili Dip:

– 1 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup sweet chili sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes

Mediterranean Tuna Cakes with Tzatziki Sauce

Experience the bold flavors of the Mediterranean with these tuna cakes, served with a refreshing tzatziki sauce.

Ingredients:

– 1 can (6 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup tzatziki sauce (see below)

Tzatziki Sauce:

– 1 cup Greek yogurt
– 1/2 cup diced cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, olive oil, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Serve with tzatziki sauce.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Cheesy Jalapeño Tuna Cakes with Sour Cream Drizzle

Elevate your snack game with these Cheesy Jalapeño Tuna Cakes, featuring a creamy sour cream drizzle to balance out the heat.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sour cream drizzle (see below)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, cheddar cheese, jalapeño, egg, and mayonnaise. Mix well.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each into a patty.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Sour Cream Drizzle:

– Mix 1/2 cup sour cream with 1 tablespoon lemon juice and 1/4 teaspoon paprika.
– Drizzle over tuna cakes immediately after serving.

Asian-Inspired Tuna Cakes with Ginger Soy Glaze

Elevate your appetizers game with these flavorful tuna cakes, infused with the bold flavors of Asia.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, panko breadcrumbs, scallions, garlic, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and egg until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 6-8 portions and shape each portion into a cake.
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry tuna cakes for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Serve with Ginger Soy Glaze (see below) and garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced daikon radish, if desired.

Ginger Soy Glaze:

– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger

Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Brush glaze over tuna cakes during the last minute of frying or serve on top as a dipping sauce.

Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes to fry the tuna cakes, plus an additional 5 minutes for glazing (if using).

Parmesan and Basil Tuna Cakes with Marinara Sauce

Elevate your seafood game with these flavorful tuna cakes, infused with the bright notes of basil and Parmesan cheese. Serve with a rich marinara sauce for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 can (6 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Marinara sauce (homemade or store-bought)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, garlic, basil, and Parmesan cheese. Mix well.
3. Shape mixture into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with marinara sauce spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Cajun-Style Tuna Cakes with Remoulade Dressing

Elevate your tuna game with these flavorful Cajun-style cakes, served with a tangy and creamy remoulade dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated onion
– 1/4 cup chopped bell pepper
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– Remoulade Dressing:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
+ 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, onion, bell pepper, garlic, Cajun seasoning, egg, Worcestershire sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until just combined; don’t overmix.
4. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
5. Heat about 1/2 inch (1 cm) of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Fry patties for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
6. Serve warm with remoulade dressing.

Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes, including frying time.

Sweet Potato and Tuna Cakes with Chipotle Mayo

A creative twist on traditional tuna cakes, these sweet potato and tuna patties are packed with flavor and texture. The spicy chipotle mayo adds a tangy kick that complements the sweetness of the sweet potatoes.

Ingredients:

– 2 large sweet potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup finely chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon Worcestershire sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Chipotle mayo (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine mashed sweet potatoes, tuna, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, Dijon mustard, and Worcestershire sauce. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired cake size.
4. Shape each portion into a patty and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the cakes and bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve with chipotle mayo for added heat.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Greek Yogurt Tuna Cakes with Dill Cucumber Sauce

This refreshing recipe combines the richness of tuna with the creaminess of Greek yogurt, topped with a zesty dill cucumber sauce. Perfect for a light and healthy lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– Fresh dill, chopped (for garnish)
– Dill Cucumber Sauce:
+ 1/2 cucumber, peeled and finely chopped
+ 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt
+ 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
+ Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix tuna, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beaten egg and breadcrumbs; stir until just combined.
4. Form into patties (about 12-15).
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned.
6. While cakes are baking, prepare the Dill Cucumber Sauce by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
7. Serve tuna cakes with dill cucumber sauce and garnish with chopped fresh dill.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Corn and Black Bean Tuna Cakes with Cilantro Lime Crema

Transform canned tuna into a flavorful and healthy treat with these Corn and Black Bean Tuna Cakes, served with a refreshing Cilantro Lime Crema.

Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) can of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup cooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup corn kernels
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cilantro Lime Crema (recipe below)
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, black beans, corn kernels, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Cilantro Lime Crema:

1. Mix together 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt, 1 tbsp freshly chopped cilantro, 1 tsp lime juice, salt to taste.
2. Refrigerate until ready to serve.

Wasabi Pea Crusted Tuna Cakes with Spicy Mayo

Elevate your appetizer game with this unique fusion of flavors and textures, featuring wasabi pea-crusted tuna cakes served with a tangy and spicy mayonnaise.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons wasabi peas, crushed
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Spicy Mayo ingredients: 1/2 cup mayonnaise, 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce, 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

Instructions:

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, panko breadcrumbs, crushed wasabi peas, egg, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Form into 4-6 patties, depending on desired size. Place on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare Spicy Mayo by mixing mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, and Dijon mustard in a small bowl.
6. Serve tuna cakes with Spicy Mayo and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Tuna Cakes with Balsamic Glaze

Sun-Dried Tomato and Feta Tuna Cakes with Balsamic Glaze Recipe

Summary:
Elevate your tuna cakes game with the addition of sun-dried tomatoes, crumbly feta cheese, and a tangy balsamic glaze. These flavorful bites are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup sun-dried tomatoes (finely chopped)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, sun-dried tomatoes, feta cheese, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 4-6 portions, depending on desired size. Shape each portion into a patty.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve warm with balsamic glaze drizzled on top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Coconut Crusted Tuna Cakes with Mango Salsa

Experience the tropical flavors of the islands with this refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.

Ingredients:

For the tuna cakes:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste

For the mango salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, shredded coconut, lemon juice, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Shape into 4-6 patties depending on desired size.
4. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While the tuna cakes are cooking, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and lime juice in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
7. Serve tuna cakes with mango salsa spooned on top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Buffalo Style Tuna Cakes with Blue Cheese Dip

Savor the bold flavors of Buffalo-style tuna cakes paired with a tangy blue cheese dip, perfect for a snack or appetizer.

Ingredients:

For the Tuna Cakes:

– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten

For the Blue Cheese Dip:

– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup crumbled blue cheese (such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola)
– 1 tablespoon hot sauce (such as Frank’s RedHot)

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, panko breadcrumbs, hot sauce, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beaten egg and gently fold until combined.
4. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape into patties.
5. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
7. Meanwhile, mix cream cheese and blue cheese in a small bowl until smooth.
8. Add hot sauce and stir until combined.

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Quinoa and Spinach Tuna Cakes with Lemon Tahini Dressing

A nutritious and flavorful twist on traditional tuna cakes, this recipe combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with the earthy taste of spinach, all wrapped up in a crispy exterior. Serve with a tangy lemon tahini dressing for a refreshing and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon Tahini Dressing ingredients: 1/2 cup tahini, 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice, 1 clove garlic, minced

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). In a medium bowl, combine quinoa, spinach, tuna, panko breadcrumbs, and olive oil. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
3. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, prepare the Lemon Tahini Dressing by blending all ingredients in a small bowl until smooth.
5. Serve tuna cakes with a dollop of Lemon Tahini Dressing and your favorite sides.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Curry Spiced Tuna Cakes with Mint Yogurt Sauce

Elevate your seafood game with these flavorful tuna cakes, infused with the warmth of curry and the brightness of mint.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 teaspoon lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Mint Yogurt Sauce ingredients below

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, curry powder, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the beaten egg and mix until just combined.
4. Shape into 4-6 patties depending on desired size.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.

Mint Yogurt Sauce:

– 1 cup plain yogurt
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh mint leaves
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt to taste

Combine all sauce ingredients in a bowl and stir to combine. Serve with tuna cakes.

Bacon Wrapped Tuna Cakes with Maple Mustard Glaze

Bacon Wrapped Tuna Cakes with Maple Mustard Glaze Recipe

Transform tuna into a mouthwatering main course with this unique recipe, combining the richness of bacon and the sweetness of maple syrup.

Ingredients:

– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 6 slices of bacon, cut in half
– Maple Mustard Glaze (recipe below)
– Cooking spray or oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 6 portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Wrap each patty with a half-slice of bacon.
5. Place the tuna cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and spray with cooking spray or oil.
6. Bake for 18-20 minutes, or until the bacon is crispy and the tuna cakes are cooked through.

Maple Mustard Glaze:

– 1/2 cup of pure maple syrup
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard

Mix the ingredients together in a small bowl and brush over the tuna cakes during the last 5 minutes of baking. Serve hot and enjoy!

Summary

Get ready to elevate your seafood game with these 18 crispy tuna cakes recipes! From spicy and savory to sweet and zesty, this diverse collection has something for everyone. Recipes range from classic Mediterranean flavors to bold Asian-inspired dishes, and even some unexpected twists like sweet potato and chipotle mayo. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and refreshing snack or a satisfying main course, these tuna cakes are sure to please. So go ahead, get creative, and serve up a plate of crispy, flavorful goodness!