When it comes to cooking with canned tuna, it’s easy to get stuck in a rut. Just open a can, toss some mayonnaise and chopped onions on top, and serve. But trust us, there’s so much more you can do with this versatile ingredient! From salads and sandwiches to pasta dishes and breakfast burritos, we’ve rounded up 20 delicious can tuna recipes that are easy to make and packed with flavor.
In this article, we’ll explore a variety of creative ways to use canned tuna in your cooking. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or a hearty dinner option, we’ve got you covered. So grab your cans of tuna (and any other ingredients you might need), and let’s get started!
Tuna Salad with Avocado and Lime
This refreshing tuna salad gets a boost of creaminess from avocado and a squeeze of citrus from lime juice, making it the perfect light lunch or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, avocado, lime juice, and red onion.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Just before serving, give the mixture a good stir.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes chilling time)
Spicy Tuna Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
A flavorful and spicy pasta dish that combines the richness of tuna with the pungency of garlic, all tied together with a drizzle of olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz spaghetti
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook spaghetti according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add flaked tuna, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Once spaghetti is cooked, drain and add to the skillet with the tuna mixture. Toss to combine.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Melt Sandwich with Cheddar and Tomato
This classic tuna melt sandwich gets a boost from melted cheddar cheese and fresh tomato slices, making it a satisfying lunch or snack. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have this tasty treat ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 slices of bread
– 1/4 cup of cheddar cheese, shredded
– 2 tomato slices
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise or plain Greek yogurt
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. Butter one side of each bread slice.
3. Place one bread slice, buttered side down, in the skillet.
4. Top with tuna, cheese, tomato slices, and mayonnaise or Greek yogurt.
5. Place the second bread slice, buttered side up, on top.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the bread is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional minute.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes
Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers
A delicious and healthy twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the flavors of tuna, bell peppers, and cheese for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix together tuna, cooked rice, and shredded cheese.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the tuna mixture, filling them as full as possible.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed peppers and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Place the peppers on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes or until tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean 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 Mediterranean-inspired flavor profile. Perfect for a light and satisfying lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup chopped red onion
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 tsp paprika
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, cannellini beans, red onion, and parsley.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: None!
Creamy Tuna and Corn Chowder
A comforting and flavorful soup perfect for a chilly evening or a quick lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup of frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 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 or chives for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the flaked tuna, frozen corn kernels, chicken broth, and heavy cream.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or chives if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Tuna and Egg Breakfast Burrito
Start your day with a protein-packed breakfast burrito that combines the flavors of tuna, eggs, and cheese. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for busy mornings.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon butter or non-stick cooking spray
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup shredded cheese (Cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
– 1 large tortilla
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Scramble the eggs in a bowl and set aside.
2. In a non-stick skillet or sauté pan, melt butter or spray with non-stick cooking spray over medium heat.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Pour in the canned tuna and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Wrap scrambled eggs, tuna mixture, and shredded cheese in a large tortilla.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna Sushi Rolls with Cucumber and Avocado
Experience the perfect blend of flavors and textures with this simple recipe for tuna sushi rolls, paired with refreshing cucumber and creamy avocado. This classic combination is a great starting point for sushi enthusiasts and beginners alike.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 cup cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed sheets
– Salt and water for seasoning
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. Lay a nori sheet flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
3. Place a small amount of tuna in the middle of the rice.
4. Add sliced cucumber and mashed avocado on top of the tuna.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and wasabi (optional).
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tuna and Chickpea Patties with Yogurt Sauce
These protein-packed patties are a great way to get your daily dose of omega-3s and fiber. Paired with a refreshing yogurt sauce, they make for a quick and satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup chickpeas
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill over medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine tuna, chickpeas, breadcrumbs, parsley, garlic, and lemon juice. Mix well.
3. Shape into patties and cook for 4-5 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, mix yogurt, lemon juice, and dill in a separate bowl.
5. Serve patties with yogurt sauce and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna Nicoise Salad with Green Beans and Potatoes
Tuna Nicoise Salad with Green Beans and Potatoes Recipe
Summary: This salad combines the flavors of tuna, green beans, potatoes, and hard-boiled eggs for a protein-packed meal. Perfect for lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 cups of green beans
– 2 medium-sized potatoes
– 2 hard-boiled eggs
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cut the potatoes into 1-inch cubes and boil them for 10-12 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
3. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Blanch the green beans for 5-6 minutes, then immediately submerge in an ice bath to stop cooking. Drain and slice into bite-sized pieces.
4. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, chopped parsley, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
5. Slice the hard-boiled eggs into wedges.
6. To assemble the salad, place a layer of potatoes on a plate, followed by green beans, then tuna mixture, and finally top with egg wedges.
7. Drizzle with olive oil and serve.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Fried Rice with Vegetables
This recipe combines the flavors of tuna, vegetables, and fried rice to create a nutritious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a busy day when you need something quick and delicious.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked 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 vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 green onions, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked tuna; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Season with salt, pepper, and soy sauce; stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Cheese Quesadillas
Elevate your snack game with this easy-to-make recipe that combines the flavors of tuna, cheese, and tortillas. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
– 4 large tortillas
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, and salt until well combined.
3. Place one tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle half of the cheese on half of the tortilla.
4. Add 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 lightly browned and the cheese is melted.
7. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also lightly browned.
8. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Tuna and Spinach Stuffed Mushrooms
Elevate your dinner game with this creative twist on a classic dish. Flaky tuna, nutritious spinach, and savory mushrooms come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 12 large mushroom caps (such as portobello or cremini)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon grated cheddar cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, spinach, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Stuff each mushroom cap with the tuna mixture, dividing it evenly among the mushrooms.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the stuffed mushrooms and sprinkle with cheddar cheese (if using).
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until mushrooms are tender and filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Poke Bowl with Sesame Dressing
Experience the freshness of Hawaii’s popular dish, Tuna Poke Bowl, with a creamy and nutty twist from our sesame dressing. This quick and easy recipe is perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 pound sushi-grade tuna, cut into small cubes
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1/4 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, and ginger.
2. Add the tuna cubes and marinate for at least 15 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
4. Divide the cooked rice into bowls.
5. Remove the tuna from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off.
6. Place the tuna on top of the rice.
7. Drizzle with sesame dressing and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (including marinating time)
Tuna and Potato Croquettes
These bite-sized croquettes are a perfect combination of flavorful tuna, creamy potatoes, and crispy breadcrumbs. They’re easy to make and can be served as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 large potatoes, cooked and mashed
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine the tuna, mashed potatoes, flour, and egg. Mix well.
2. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
3. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Dip each croquette in panko breadcrumbs, pressing gently to adhere.
5. Heat the olive oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Fry the croquettes for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (frying time: 4-5 minutes per batch)
Tuna and Olive Tapenade on Crostini
Tuna and Olive Tapenade on Crostini: A Savory Twist
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing combination of tuna, olives, and creamy tapenade on crispy crostini. Perfect for a quick snack or as an addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, sliced
– 2 tbsp of olive tapenade
– 12-15 crostini slices
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Arrange the crostini slices on a baking sheet and toast for 5-7 minutes or until crispy.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the flaked tuna and sliced olives.
4. Spread a layer of olive tapenade on each toasted crostini slice.
5. Top with the tuna-olive mixture, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Tuna and Rice Casserole with Cheese
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines the protein-packed goodness of tuna, creamy cheese, and nutty rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (12 oz) of tuna in water, drained
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, rice, peas and carrots, and salt and pepper to taste.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk and grated cheese until smooth.
4. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until well combined.
5. Pour mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna and Avocado Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional tuna salad, these lettuce wraps are perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped green onions, lemon wedges
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, salt, and pepper. Mix well until combined.
2. Add the mashed avocado to the tuna mixture and stir until smooth.
3. Place 1-2 lettuce leaves on a flat surface or plate.
4. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the tuna-avocado mixture onto each lettuce leaf.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: None required! Just assemble and serve.
Tuna and Pesto Pasta Salad
A refreshing twist on a classic pasta salad, this recipe combines the flavors of tuna, pesto, and linguine for a quick and easy meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz linguine pasta
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of pesto sauce
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook linguine pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine flaked tuna, pesto sauce, cherry tomatoes, and chopped parsley. Toss until well combined.
3. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time)
Tuna and Sweet Corn Fritters
Tuna and Sweet Corn Fritters: A Refreshing Twist on Classic Fritters!
These bite-sized fritters combine the savory flavor of tuna with the sweetness of corn, perfect for a quick snack or appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of sweet corn kernels
– 1/2 cup of all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon of paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon of salt
– 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, corn kernels, flour, paprika, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Add the beaten egg to the mixture and stir until just combined (do not overmix).
3. Heat about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until it reaches 350°F.
4. Using a spoon or small scoop, drop the tuna-corn mixture into the hot oil, making sure not to overcrowd the skillet.
5. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
6. Remove from oil with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes (depending on the number of fritters).
Summary
Get ready to reel in some flavor with these 20 delicious can tuna recipes that are easy to make! From classic tuna salad with avocado and lime, to spicy tuna pasta with garlic and olive oil, and even tuna sushi rolls with cucumber and avocado – there’s something for every taste. Plus, discover creative twists like tuna melt sandwiches, stuffed bell peppers, and tuna and egg breakfast burritos. Whether you’re in the mood for a quick lunch or a satisfying dinner, these recipes are sure to hook you up!
