Looking at the versatility of canned tuna, it’s surprising that many people don’t think of it as a go-to ingredient when they’re stuck for recipe ideas. While it may not be the first choice for some home cooks, canned tuna is incredibly tasty and can be used in a wide range of dishes. In fact, these recipes show just how versatile this food is in cooking!
We’ve put together a comprehensive roundup of 33 of the best canned tuna recipes to prove its worth, covering everything from pizzas and salads to patties and casseroles.
Asian Tuna Salad
Essentially, we’ll kick off this tuna recipe round-up with a unique take on a classic tuna salad. This version combines the traditional ingredients with East Asian flavors, expertly infused through the use of sesame oil, rice vinegar, and soba noodles. If you’re looking for alternatives, feel free to swap the noodles for crisp lettuce or opt for whole wheat spaghetti if soba noodles are not readily available.
To add a burst of freshness and heat, drizzle some zesty lime juice and spicy mustard on top for a truly delightful finish.
Pappardelle With Tuna Sauce
Lightly tossing tuna with pappardelle pasta is a match made in heaven! The bold flavors of this sauce perfectly complement the savory goodness of the tuna, thanks to the harmonious combination of sautéed onion, salty capers, and juicy ripe tomatoes. When using capers, it’s worth noting that they can often be found preserved in salty brines, which may impact the overall taste of the dish. To avoid this, simply give them a quick rinse under water before adding them to the sauce.
Tuna And Tomato Calzone
Lightly fold the dough to create a rectangular shape, then fill it with a delicious mixture of tuna, olives, tomatoes, and mozzarella. This combination of ingredients infuses every bite with a rich, savory flavor that is sure to delight anyone’s taste buds. The simplicity of this calzone recipe makes it a perfect option for a quick and easy meal, and its best served on the day it’s made.
However, if you do have leftovers, they can be easily stored in an airtight container wrapped in foil for later use.
Easy Paleo Canned Tuna Fish Cakes
Tantalizing flavors are at the heart of this recipe, which expertly combines tuna with sweet potato, peppers, and onion to create a dish that’s not only delicious but also Paleo-friendly, low in fat, and relatively low in sugar. This versatility makes it an excellent choice for individuals following various diet plans, including those who are health-conscious or simply seeking a quick and easy meal.
While the ingredients can be enjoyed on their own, they truly shine when wrapped in a bun or served atop crisp lettuce leaves. What’s more, this recipe is perfect for families with children, as it’s suitable for kids and adults alike. To make the most of this versatile dish, consider preparing a large batch and freezing some for later, so you can easily enjoy them whenever you please.
Easy Tuna Melts
Love traditional tuna recipes? Look no further than this simple yet delicious tuna melt recipe! One of its key features is the use of an English muffin as the base, rather than the more common white bread. This change provides not only a firmer foundation for the ingredients but also allows the holes in the bread to soak up any juices that may escape during cooking, adding extra flavor to each bite.
To take it to the next level, consider adding a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and a dash of Dijon mustard for an added kick.
Tuna And Chickpea Salad
Among the many reasons why chickpea and tuna salad is a popular choice for lunch and dinner, one of its most notable benefits is that it’s extremely satisfying due to its high protein content. This delicious combination of ingredients provides a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it an ideal option for those looking for a light yet filling meal.
The addition of capers, onions, and avocado adds a depth of flavor and creaminess that complements the protein-rich chickpeas and tuna perfectly. To bring out the full range of flavors in this salad, be sure to stir in some lemon juice and vinegar dressing before serving.
Baked Potato With Tuna And Spring Onion
Knowing that you’re short on time is perfectly fine. This recipe combines two classic elements – baked potatoes and tuna – to create a simple yet satisfying meal. The addition of spring onions, olive oil, and butter takes this traditional dish to the next level, making it a true indulgence. While it’s great when paired with a small salad, this recipe is just as enjoyable on its own, making it an excellent option for any day.
Tuna Casserole Stuffed Shells
Looking for a twist on the classic tuna casserole recipe? This version uses large pasta shells, mushroom soup, and Panko crumbs to give it a slightly different appearance. It’s perfect for serving at family gatherings or taking along to potlucks where you need to bring a tasty dish to share with others. Each pasta shell will be filled with a delicious mixture of tuna, mushroom soup, and peas, which blend together beautifully in the creamy soup, creating a mouthwatering result.
To ensure the best flavor, try not to overcook the pasta shells, leaving them with a slight bite that’s even more enjoyable when combined with the other ingredients.
Tuna Pizza With Green Peppers
Giving it a try might just change your mind about tuna pizza! This dish may not be everyone’s first choice, but if you’re a fan of tuna salad, there’s a good chance you’ll enjoy this unique twist on traditional pizza. Each slice is carefully crafted to balance the flavors and textures of its various ingredients. The crunch of fresh onions, celery, and bell peppers complements the savory taste of the cheddar cheese perfectly.
This combination creates a harmonious contrast that elevates the dish to a whole new level. Adding some heat with hot sauce or a sprinkle of green onion slices for garnish can take your tuna pizza experience to the next level.
Onion And Herb Keto Tuna Cakes
Keeping in mind that sometimes simplicity is key when it comes to seafood dishes, these onion and herb fish cakes offer a delightful twist. Kicking off with the inclusion of blue cheese crumbles, which instantly elevate the flavors within. Knitted throughout each piece are chopped mint leaves, providing an unexpected refreshing contrast to the robust tuna and onion notes. To add a touch of zing, consider placing a small dollop of spicy mustard on top of each cake before serving.
Skinny Tuna Noodle Casserole
Harnessing the classic comfort food appeal of casseroles, this innovative recipe takes a lighter approach. By utilizing fat-free chicken broth and reduced-fat cheese, it effectively reduces the calorie count without compromising on flavor. The addition of sautéed mushrooms, peas, breadcrumbs, and a hint of butter expertly complements the tuna, preventing the casserole from becoming too bland.
To elevate this dish to new heights, we highly recommend incorporating an abundance of spices, such as cayenne, paprika, pepper, and chili, as you assemble the casserole, guaranteeing a hearty and satisfying taste experience.
Baby Friendly Tuna Fish Cakes
Rest assured, this fish cake recipe is ideal for households with young children. It’s completely free from harsh ingredients, making it a safe choice when your baby is ready to try fish. Just remember to cook these fish cakes thoroughly before serving them to your child, ensuring they are not fed raw or undercooked eggs.
Cheese And Tuna Jackets
Varying from traditional baked potato recipes, this one combines the richness of tuna with the creaminess of cheese. The simplicity of these toppings may lead some to believe they’re bland, but that’s far from the truth! The key to elevating this dish lies in mixing the tuna and cheese blend with a variety of spices and potent ingredients such as sautéed onions and parsley. To achieve perfectly crispy skin, coat your potatoes with a small amount of sunflower oil before baking.
Go-To Tuna Wraps
Happily devouring these delicious tuna wraps is only a matter of minutes away. The simplicity of this recipe lies in its few ingredients, which still manage to create a harmonious balance of flavors. The combination of tuna, mustard, walnuts, and raisins provides a savory base with sweet undertones. Notably, the addition of raisins brings a pleasant fruity twist that complements the nutty flavor of the walnuts perfectly.
Feel free to get creative and experiment with different ingredients, such as chopped apples or celery, which pair surprisingly well with the tuna and raisins.
Tuna Lettuce Wrap
People often look for lighter alternatives to their favorite recipes, especially when it comes to satisfying hunger without compromising on taste. If you enjoyed the previous wrap recipe featured here, we have a slightly healthier version that you might appreciate. This variation incorporates a protein-rich tuna mix, blended with mayonnaise and mustard, which is then wrapped in a thick lettuce leaf for a refreshing twist.
When selecting your lettuce wraps, it’s essential to choose thicker options over thinner ones, as they will hold up better to the filling. Romaine and butter lettuce are excellent examples of thicker lettuce varieties that work perfectly for this purpose.
Broccoli And Cheese Tuna Casserole Budget Meal
Often, we crave comfort foods that are quick to prepare without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. This version of a tuna casserole fits the bill perfectly, taking just 35 minutes to make from start to finish. The recipe relies on filling ingredients like brown rice and broccoli as its foundation, which complement the robust tuna flavors beautifully. In addition, low-fat cheddar and coconut milk are used throughout the casserole to add a rich and creamy element that elevates the dish as a whole.
To bring out the full flavor potential of this casserole, be sure to incorporate plenty of seasoning with each layer to ensure every bite is bursting with taste.
Tuna And Tomato Salsa Pasta
Delicious combinations of ingredients are often found in Italian cuisine, and this pasta dish is no exception. The fusion of tuna and tomatoes brings out the tangy notes in each other, resulting in a harmonious balance of flavors. What’s more, this recipe can be prepared and cooked in just 15 minutes, making it an ideal choice for a quick lunch or dinner solution. Don’t overlook the capers, as their tartness complements the tuna perfectly.
Tuna Crumble
Understanding that you may not have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen, this tuna crumble can be prepared in just one hour using common ingredients you likely already have on hand. The combination of succulent tuna pieces and juicy, flavorful vegetables is then encased in a lovely cheesy coating, creating a dish that’s both nutritious and delicious.
This recipe is ideal for individuals looking to increase their daily intake of vegetables as well as protein from the canned tuna pieces, making it a great option for those seeking a balanced meal.
Nicoise Salad – French Salad With Tuna
With its simplicity and nutrient-dense ingredients, it’s no wonder that Nicoise salad is one of the most beloved types of tuna salad around. This French-inspired dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with filling components that will keep hunger at bay. The boiled eggs and baby potatoes provide sustained energy, while a drizzle of lemon dressing brings out the rich flavors from the olives, beans, and tuna.
To add an extra kick, serve with a sprinkle of Dijon mustard and plenty of black pepper for a spicy finish.
Avocado Tuna Salad Sandwich
Brimming with nutritious goodness, avocados combine perfectly with the rich flavor of tuna. This sandwich boasts a winning combination of healthy fats, protein, and greens, making it an excellent addition to many diet plans. The recipe uses a bagel as the base instead of traditional bread, but feel free to substitute it with an English muffin, lettuce wrap, or even a tortilla to create a healthier wrap version that suits your taste.
Tuna Melt Crescent Ring
You don’t need to be an expert baker or chef to create this visually appealing tuna crescent ring. The process is surprisingly straightforward, requiring only basic preparation skills. Start by preparing a tuna filling with your preferred ingredients and then carefully assemble it within a crescent-shaped dough sheet.
Once you’ve successfully put the ring together, slice it into portions and serve it accompanied by a refreshing lemon and dill sauce that complements the flavors of the filling perfectly.
Tuna Melts With Olive Oil Mayonnaise And Parmesan
Needless to say, these indulgent tuna melts are not suitable for those watching their weight! Packed with rich ingredients such as parmesan cheese, mayonnaise, and olive oil, they offer a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The creamy elements are beautifully contrasted by the crunch of the baguette, making each bite a pleasure to experience. To enhance this delightful mix even further, try adding some mustard and apple cider vinegar for an extra layer of flavor and freshness.
The Best Tuna Casserole With Noodles
Varying from the traditional tuna casserole recipe, this unique version incorporates egg noodles and Panko-Parmesan to create a fresh take on a beloved classic. Those seeking comfort food will find satisfaction in this dish, which is packed with cheesy goodness, rich buttery flavors, and an assortment of vegetables like onions, peppers, and peas that add depth and complexity.
As with other casserole recipes, the beauty of this one lies in its convenience – it can be prepared ahead of time, making it ideal for meal prep or special occasions. If you do choose to freeze it, ensure it thaws completely before reheating, ensuring a delicious, satisfying finish.
Penne With Tuna And Spicy Mustard
Spicy Tuna Sandwich
Boost your mealtime routine with a quick and easy tuna sandwich recipe that’s perfect for a busy day. Simply combine canned tuna, mayonnaise, and Sriracha in a bowl to create a flavorful filling, then spoon it across cheddar-lined bread for a delicious and satisfying result. To take this dish to the next level, consider adding a drizzle of sesame oil to the filling, as its nutty flavor will beautifully complement the spicy kick from the Sriracha.
Rice Paper Tuna Salad Roll
Fresh from the kitchen, these rice paper rolls are a perfect combination of textures and flavors. On the outside, they’re crisp and delicate, while on the inside, they’re soft and yielding. The filling is a masterful blend of tuna, mustard, and pickle, each ingredient complementing the others without overpowering them in any way.
A squeeze of lemon juice adds a burst of freshness, cutting through the richness of the flavors, but be careful not to overdo it – too much juice can make the rolls slippery to eat.
Classic Tuna Macaroni Salad
Savoring simplicity can be a delightful experience, and this macaroni salad recipe is no exception. The combination of tuna and hard-boiled eggs provides sustained energy, while the tangy pickle relish, pungency of shallots, and zesty lemon juice cut through the richness of the dish. You have the freedom to choose any type of pasta that suits your taste preferences, but elbow macaroni is a popular choice for this salad.
For optimal flavor, it’s recommended to use tuna packed in water instead of brine or oil-based versions, as these can alter the overall flavor profile.
Tuna Chowder With Corn Cheese
Just when you think you’ve tried every type of soup, tuna chowder comes along to surprise you. It’s not only surprisingly delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare and serve on short notice, making it an ideal option for a filling lunch. The recipe is packed with a medley of delicious vegetables that are elevated to new heights by the richness of a thick cheese sauce.
But what really sets this chowder apart is its unique flavor profile, which is expertly balanced by the tangy kick of Tabasco, the pungency of onions, and the freshness of celery. Serve it with some warm crusty bread and, if you’re feeling fancy, a glass of dry white wine to complete the experience.
Crab Or Tuna Lemon And Chili Linguine Recipe
Firstly, this linguine recipe offers flexibility with its protein choice, allowing you to either use crab or substitute it with tuna. The seafood sauce, which forms a crucial part of the dish, requires only five ingredients that are likely to be readily available in your kitchen pantry.
Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers
Making stuffed peppers is always an enjoyable experience, especially when you experiment with various fillings that provide sustained satisfaction. This recipe combines tuna, olives, and cottage cheese to create a filling that’s both rich and indulgent. However, the delicate crunch of the peppers beautifully balances out the heartiness of these ingredients, creating a delightful harmony of flavors.
The addition of Dijon mustard and lemon juice is crucial in this recipe, as they enhance the overall flavor profile by adding a tangy and citrusy note that complements each pepper perfectly.
Tuna And Red Pesto Pasta
Just like many people’s favorite comfort foods, this pasta dish is perfect for days when you don’t feel like spending too much time in the kitchen. It requires only three steps and ten minutes of preparation, making it an ideal option for a quick yet satisfying meal. The tuna recipe combines canned tuna with black olives and pesto to create a rich and flavorful pasta dish. To balance out the richness, garnish each plate with some chopped parsley for a burst of freshness.
Easy Tuna Dip
Unlocking the full flavor potential of your homemade tuna dips is easier than you think. These versatile recipes can be enjoyed in a variety of ways, such as spooning some into crunchy celery sticks or spreading it on slices of toast for a satisfying snack. For an added burst of freshness and depth, don’t forget to include lemon in the mix – its citrusy notes will expertly cut through the rich tuna mixture, bringing out the subtle flavors from the onions and mustard.
Directions
Visiting a new restaurant or trying out a new cuisine can be an exciting experience. Here’s how you can make the most of it: choose one of the recipes listed above, click on its name to visit the website and explore the details, then gather all the necessary ingredients and start cooking – don’t forget to savor every bite and leave your valuable feedback once you’ve finished.
