Are you tired of the same old lunch routine? Look no further! Canned tuna is a pantry staple that can be used to create a variety of quick and delicious meals. With its rich flavor and high protein content, it’s no wonder why tuna remains a popular ingredient for many home cooks. In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy can tuna recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights or lazy Sundays. From classic sandwiches to innovative sushi rolls, these recipes showcase the versatility of canned tuna and will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen.
Tuna Salad Sandwich
A classic and refreshing sandwich filling that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. This tuna salad sandwich recipe is easy to make and packed with protein, making it a great option for those looking for a healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread
– Lettuce leaves and tomato slices for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and parsley. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Place 2-3 tablespoons of the tuna salad onto each slice of bread.
4. Garnish with lettuce leaves and tomato slices if desired.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None, as this is a no-cook recipe.
Tuna Pasta Salad
A classic and refreshing salad that combines the flavors of tuna, pasta, and vegetables, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon 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 cooked pasta, tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and red onion.
3. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Toss gently to combine.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Melt Panini
Get ready for a satisfying lunch or snack with this simple tuna melt panini recipe. Fresh tuna, melted cheese, and crispy bread come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 slices of whole wheat bread
– Lettuce leaves
– Tomato slices (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a panini press or grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
3. Butter one side of each bread slice.
4. Place a lettuce leaf on the unbuttered side of each bread slice.
5. Spread a layer of tuna mixture on top of the lettuce.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tuna.
7. Add tomato slices if using.
8. Assemble the panini by placing another bread slice, butter-side up, on top.
9. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the bread is toasted and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 3-4 minutes
Tuna Stuffed Avocados
Elevate your snack game with this easy and flavorful recipe that combines the creaminess of avocado with the savory goodness of tuna. Perfect for a quick lunch or as a healthy appetizer, these stuffed avocados are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half, remove the pit, and place them on a plate.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice.
3. Spoon the tuna mixture into each avocado half, mounding it slightly.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (ready in a flash!)
Tuna and White Bean Salad
This refreshing salad combines the protein-packed goodness of tuna with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, all wrapped up in a zesty dressing. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained
– 1/2 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, cannellini beans, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together 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: None! Just mix and serve.
Spicy Tuna Sushi Roll
Add a kick to your sushi game with this simple recipe for Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls. Crunchy and flavorful, these rolls are perfect for a quick snack or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup cooked tuna (canned or fresh)
– 1/4 cup spicy mayo (or regular mayonnaise mixed with sriracha sauce)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1/2 cup sushi rice
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/4 cucumber, sliced
– Sesame seeds and soy sauce for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Mix the cooked tuna with spicy mayo until well combined.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed 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 a few slices of avocado and cucumber in the middle of the rice.
6. Add a spoonful of the tuna mixture on top of the vegetables.
7. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands (with a bit of water).
8. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tuna Nicoise Salad
This Tuna Nicoise Salad recipe is a twist on the classic French dish, featuring seared tuna, cherry tomatoes, and crispy vegetables. With its bold flavors and textures, it’s perfect for a quick and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped hard-boiled egg
– 1/4 cup sliced red onion
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tuna and sear for 30-45 seconds per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine the cherry tomatoes, egg, onion, olives, olive oil, and vinegar.
4. Slice the seared tuna into thick pieces and add to the salad.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles
This comforting casserole is a staple of American cuisine, featuring tender egg noodles, flaky tuna, and a creamy sauce. It’s an easy and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound egg noodles
– 1 (12 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1 cup cream of mushroom soup
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook egg noodles according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in tuna, milk, cream of mushroom soup, and salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the tuna mixture and stir to combine.
6. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish and top with shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Patties with Lemon Dill Sauce
This recipe combines the classic flavors of tuna patties with a bright and zesty lemon dill sauce, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
For the Tuna Patties:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Lemon Dill Sauce:
– 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, panko breadcrumbs, olive oil, egg, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Form into 4 patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine yogurt, lemon juice, and dill in a bowl. Season with salt to taste.
5. Serve tuna patties with Lemon Dill Sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna and Corn Chowder
A comforting and flavorful chowder that combines the richness of tuna with the sweetness of corn, perfect for a cozy evening meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 2 medium potatoes, diced
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups milk or cream (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the diced potatoes, corn kernels, and tuna.
5. Pour in enough milk or cream to cover the mixture (optional).
6. Bring the chowder to a simmer and let it cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Fried Rice
A simple and flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines cooked tuna with savory vegetables and aromatics for a delicious and protein-packed meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style short-grain rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can of tuna (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 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 minced garlic; cook until translucent.
3. Add frozen vegetables; cook until thawed and tender.
4. Add cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Stir in flaked tuna, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Cook for an additional minute to combine flavors.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna and Chickpea Wraps
This recipe combines the omega-rich goodness of tuna with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a crispy whole-grain tortilla. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 teaspoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 whole-grain tortillas
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, chickpeas, mayonnaise, parsley, and lemon juice.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay out one of the tortillas and spoon about half of the tuna-chickpea mixture onto the center of the wrap.
4. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up tightly.
5. Repeat with the remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately or store in an airtight container for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tuna Pizza with Olives and Capers
Tuna Pizza with Olives and Capers: A Mediterranean-inspired twist on a classic pizza, this recipe combines the savory flavor of tuna with the brininess of olives and capers.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1 can (6 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup capers, rinsed and drained
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread tuna over the dough, leaving a small border around edges.
4. Top with sliced olives, chopped parsley, and capers.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the toppings.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until crust is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the sweetness of bell peppers with the savory flavor of tuna, making for a healthy and satisfying meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner, these stuffed peppers are easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 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 bowl, mix tuna, rice, onion, garlic, and olive oil.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the tuna mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
7. Optional: Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of peppers during last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna and Potato Croquettes
These crispy tuna and potato croquettes are a great appetizer or snack, perfect for parties or gatherings. Made with fresh tuna, potatoes, and aromatic spices, they’re easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together tuna, mashed potatoes, flour, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Shape the mixture into small patties (about 1 inch in diameter).
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
4. When the oil is hot, fry the croquettes for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they’re golden brown and crispy.
5. Drain excess oil on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Tuna Mac and Cheese
This creamy pasta dish combines the comfort of macaroni and cheese with the protein-packed goodness of tuna. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups grated cheddar cheese
– 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook macaroni according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a medium saucepan, whisk together flour and milk until smooth. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cheddar and mozzarella cheese until melted and smooth.
5. Add tuna, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Combine cooked macaroni with the tuna mixture. Transfer to a baking dish.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna and Cucumber Sushi Bites
These bite-sized sushi snacks are perfect for a quick and easy snack or appetizer. With only a few ingredients, you can create a delicious and refreshing treat that’s both healthy and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed sheets
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon of sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a surface.
2. Spread a small amount of soy sauce and sesame oil along the center of the seaweed.
3. Place 2-3 slices of cucumber on top of the soy sauce mixture.
4. Add a small spoonful of flaked tuna on top of the cucumber.
5. Roll the sushi tightly but gently, applying even pressure to form a compact bite-sized piece.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Tuna and Egg Breakfast Muffins
Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast that’s perfect for on-the-go. These tasty muffins combine the savory flavor of tuna with the richness of scrambled eggs, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/4 cup of chopped onion
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– 1 pie crust (homemade or store-bought)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Roll out the pie crust to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a bowl, mix together tuna, eggs, onion, and olive oil.
4. Spoon the mixture onto one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2 inch border around the edges.
5. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or square shape.
6. Press the edges to seal and use a fork to crimp.
7. Place the muffins on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna and Spinach Quiche
This quiche recipe combines the richness of tuna with the nutritional benefits of spinach, all wrapped up in a flaky pastry crust. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, this quiche is sure to please.
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 heavy cream
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large eggs
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 together tuna, spinach, cheese, and heavy cream.
4. Pour the mixture into the pie crust.
5. Beat eggs in a separate bowl and pour over the filling.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the quiche is set and golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna and Tomato Bruschetta
Elevate your appetizer game with this easy-to-make Tuna and Tomato Bruschetta, perfect for any occasion. The combination of succulent tuna, juicy tomatoes, and crispy bread is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 1 baguette, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rounds
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together tuna, diced tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange bread slices on a baking sheet and toast in the oven for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
4. Spoon the tuna-tomato mixture onto toasted bread rounds.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Summary
Get ready to tuna-ly your meal routine! This article features 20 easy and delicious recipes that showcase the versatility of canned tuna. From classic sandwiches to international twists, there’s something for everyone. Try making a Tuna Salad Sandwich, a Spicy Tuna Sushi Roll, or a Tuna Casserole with Egg Noodles. Or get creative with dishes like Tuna Stuffed Avocados, Tuna and White Bean Salad, or Tuna Pizza with Olives and Capers. Whatever your taste buds desire, this article has you covered with quick, easy, and tasty tuna recipes that are sure to please.
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