Get ready to reel in the flavor with these 18 mouthwatering tuna appetizer recipes! Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some inspiration for your next gathering, we’ve got you covered. From classic sushi rolls to innovative twists like tuna-stuffed mushrooms and jalapeño poppers, there’s something on this list for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll dive into the world of tuna appetizers, exploring flavors and textures that will leave your guests hooked. From spicy tuna tartare with avocado to seared tuna crostini with wasabi mayo, each recipe is carefully crafted to showcase the rich, buttery flavor of this versatile fish. So grab some fresh tuna, get creative, and get ready to impress!
Spicy Tuna Tartare with Avocado
A refreshing twist on traditional tuna tartare, this recipe adds a kick of heat and creaminess from avocado.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained)
– 1/2 avocado, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, chopped jalapeño, soy sauce, and lime juice.
2. Gently mix until the ingredients are well combined.
3. Stir in diced avocado.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (prep time) + chilling time
Tuna Stuffed Cherry Tomatoes
A flavorful and healthy appetizer or snack, perfect for warm weather gatherings.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 cherry tomatoes
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the cherry tomatoes, creating a small bowl.
3. In a small bowl, mix together tuna, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each tomato with the tuna mixture, filling until almost full.
5. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Crispy Tuna Spring Rolls
Elevate your snack game with these crispy tuna spring rolls, packed with flavorful tuna and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 1/2 cup of chopped cabbage
– 1/4 cup of chopped carrots
– 1/4 cup of chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 package of spring roll wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
2. Add the chopped cabbage, carrots, and scallions to the bowl and stir until combined.
3. Lay a spring roll wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the tuna mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Brush the edges of the wrapper with a little water.
5. Fold the bottom half of the wrapper over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up to form a tight cylinder.
6. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
7. Fry the spring rolls for 2-3 minutes on each side, until crispy and golden brown.
8. Drain on paper towels and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna and Cucumber Bites
A refreshing twist on traditional appetizers, these bite-sized tuna and cucumber morsels are perfect for a quick snack or party gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cup of diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 12-15 crackers or toasts
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Cut the cucumber into small pieces and set aside.
3. Arrange the crackers or toasts on a serving plate or tray.
4. Spoon a small amount of tuna mixture onto each cracker or toast.
5. Top the tuna with a piece of cucumber.
6. Serve immediately, or cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are ready in just a few minutes.
Seared Tuna Crostini with Wasabi Mayo
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and flavorful dish, perfect for a summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 crostini or baguette slices
– 1/2 cup wasabi mayonnaise (see below for recipe)
– Fresh cilantro leaves, chopped (optional)
Wasabi Mayo:
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1 tsp wasabi paste
– 1 tsp soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F.
2. In a shallow dish, mix together sesame seeds and minced garlic.
3. Brush both sides of tuna steaks with olive oil and coat each side with the sesame seed mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Place crostini on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes or until lightly browned.
5. Sear tuna steaks in a hot skillet for 1-2 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
6. Top toasted crostini with seared tuna, wasabi mayonnaise, and chopped cilantro (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Poke Nachos
Elevate your nacho game with a fusion twist – Tuna Poke Nachos! This unique recipe combines the freshness of Hawaiian-style tuna poke with the comfort of crispy nachos.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of yellowfin tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of soy sauce
– 1/4 cup of sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons of chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1 bag of tortilla chips
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 jalapeño pepper, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, green onions, and ginger. Add the flaked tuna and mix well.
3. Arrange tortilla chips in a single layer on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon the tuna poke mixture over the nachos, leaving a small border around the edges.
5. Top with shredded cheese and sliced jalapeño pepper.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Remove from oven and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Tuna and Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers
Tuna and Cream Cheese Stuffed Peppers Recipe
A delicious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the savory flavor of tuna with the creaminess of cream cheese, all wrapped up in a crunchy bell pepper shell.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 8 oz cream cheese, softened
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine tuna, cream cheese, parsley, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
4. Stuff each pepper with the tuna mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
6. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna Sushi Cups
Quick and delicious, these Tuna Sushi Cups are perfect for a snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1/4 cup diced cucumber
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
– 6-8 wonton wrappers
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, cooked rice, green onions, cucumber, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Lay a wonton wrapper flat on a surface.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the tuna mixture in the center of the wrapper.
5. Fold the wrapper into a triangle by bringing the two opposite corners together to form a point.
6. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cups are lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna and Mango Ceviche
A refreshing twist on traditional ceviche, this recipe combines the rich flavor of tuna with the sweetness of mango.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna, cut into small pieces
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, mango, lime juice, red onion, and jalapeño.
2. Stir gently to combine, taking care not to break up the fish.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Marinating time: 30 minutes
– Total preparation time: 10-15 minutes
Tuna Deviled Eggs
Elevate your deviled eggs with the addition of tuna and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 6 large egg yolks
– 1/2 cup canned tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Hard-boil the egg yolks until cooked through, then chill.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and paprika.
3. Gently fold in the cooled egg yolks until well combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the mixture into pre-cooked egg white halves.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tuna and Avocado Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing twist on the classic bruschetta. Savor the combination of tuna, avocado, and fresh herbs atop toasted bread.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 baguette slices
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained), flaked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Slice the baguette into 1-inch thick rounds, then toast until lightly browned.
3. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, avocado, garlic, and parsley.
4. Brush toasted bread slices with olive oil.
5. Spoon the tuna-avocado mixture over each slice.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tuna Melt Sliders
Elevate your lunch game with these bite-sized tuna melts, packed with protein and flavor. This recipe is a quick and easy way to get a delicious meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 4 hamburger buns
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped green onions (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Mix the tuna with mayonnaise and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Place the hamburger buns on the skillet and toast for about 30 seconds.
4. Assemble the sliders by spreading a spoonful of tuna mixture onto each bun, followed by a sprinkle of shredded cheese and chopped green onions (if using).
5. Cook the sliders for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tuna and White Bean Dip
A deliciously healthy dip that’s perfect for snacking or serving with crackers, chips, or veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cooked white beans (such as cannellini or navy beans)
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 minced garlic clove
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, white beans, Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
2. Mix until smooth and creamy, adjusting seasoning as needed.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 5-10 minutes (prep time), plus chilling time
Tuna-Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your appetizers with this innovative fusion of flavors and textures, combining the savory richness of tuna with the earthy sweetness of mushrooms.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of butter
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 clove of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add olive oil, garlic, and tuna; stir until combined.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the tuna mixture, dividing it evenly among the caps.
4. Place stuffed mushrooms on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
7. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Olive Tapenade Crostini
Tuna and Olive Tapenade Crostini Recipe
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make tapenade crostini, featuring the perfect balance of salty tuna and briny olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) can of solid white tuna in water, drained
– 2 tbsp olive tapenade
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 baguette, cut into 1/2-inch thick slices
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Arrange baguette slices on a baking sheet.
3. Spread 1-2 tsp of olive tapenade on each crostini, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with sliced olives and a spoonful of tuna (about 1/2 oz per crostini).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Tuna and Cucumber Canapés
Elevate your appetizer game with these refreshing tuna and cucumber canapés. Perfect for a quick snack or as a starter for a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (6 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup diced fresh cucumber
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 package of crackers or small bread rounds (about 20-25 pieces)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, cucumber, mayonnaise, and dill until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Arrange the crackers or bread rounds on a serving plate or platter.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the tuna mixture onto each cracker.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! These canapés are ready in no time.
Tuna and Sesame Rice Balls
Savor the fusion of savory tuna, nutty sesame, and fluffy rice in these bite-sized balls perfect for a quick snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese-style short-grain rice (preferably Koshihikari or Akita Komachi)
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, flaked tuna, sesame oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired ball size.
3. Shape each portion into a small ball and place on a plate or tray.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with additional sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tuna and Jalapeño Poppers
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized treats that combine the richness of tuna with the boldness of jalapeño peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 package of jalapeño popper wrappers (about 20-25 wrappers)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, cream cheese, mayonnaise, cilantro, and chopped jalapeño until well combined.
3. Lay out a popper wrapper on a flat surface. Place about 1 tablespoon of the tuna mixture in the center of the wrapper.
4. Fold the wrapper into a triangle, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
5. Repeat with remaining wrappers and filling.
6. Place the poppers on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Looking for some inspiration for your next gathering or party? Look no further! This article presents 18 delicious tuna appetizer recipes that are sure to impress. From Spicy Tuna Tartare with Avocado to Tuna and Sesame Rice Balls, these bite-sized treats offer a variety of flavors and textures to tantalize your taste buds. Whether you’re a seafood lover or just looking for some new ideas, this collection is sure to delight. So go ahead, get cooking, and make your next gathering one to remember!
