Are you tired of the same old dinner routine? Look no further! Tuna is a versatile and affordable protein that can be used in a variety of dishes, from classic salads to international-inspired meals. In this article, we’ll share 17 quick and easy tuna recipes perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, these recipes are sure to become new favorites.
From classic tuna salad sandwiches to more adventurous options like spicy sushi rolls and Mediterranean pita pockets, there’s something for everyone on this list. And the best part? Each recipe can be prepared in 30 minutes or less, making them perfect for those hectic evenings when you don’t have a lot of time to spare.
So go ahead, get creative with tuna, and start cooking up some delicious meals tonight!
Tuna Salad Sandwich with Celery and Lemon
A refreshing twist on a classic tuna salad, this recipe adds crunch from celery and a burst of citrus from lemon. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 stalks of celery (diced)
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 slices of bread
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, celery, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay out the bread slices and spoon the tuna salad onto two of them.
4. Top with lettuce leaves if desired.
5. Place the other bread slice on top to complete the sandwich.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Easy Tuna Pasta with Garlic and Olive Oil
This classic pasta dish gets a boost from the addition of canned tuna, garlic, and olive oil. With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a quick and satisfying meal on the table in no time.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz pasta (such as spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 can tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant.
3. Add flaked tuna to the skillet and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine cooked pasta and tuna mixture in a serving bowl. Toss to combine.
5. Top with grated Parmesan cheese, if desired. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Quick Tuna Melt on Whole Wheat Bread
A satisfying and protein-packed lunch that’s ready in no time! This recipe is perfect for a quick pick-me-up or a school/daycare snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 slices of whole wheat bread
– 1 tablespoon of mayonnaise
– 1 slice of cheddar cheese (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Toast the whole wheat bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread 1/2 tablespoon of mayonnaise on each toasted bread slice.
3. Top each bread slice with flaked tuna, making sure to cover the entire surface.
4. If using cheese, place one slice on top of the tuna.
5. Place the two bread slices together to form a “sandwich” and cook in a toaster oven or conventional oven at 350°F for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted (if using).
6. Remove from the oven and sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tuna Avocado Wrap with Greek Yogurt Dressing
This refreshing wrap combines the creaminess of avocado, the protein-packed power of tuna, and the tanginess of Greek yogurt dressing for a healthy and satisfying snack or meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 1 large flour tortilla
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
– 1 tsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Lay the tortilla flat and spread the mashed avocado on one half of it.
3. Top with tuna, chopped cilantro, and a dollop of Greek yogurt dressing.
4. Fold the other half of the tortilla to create a wrap.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
One-Pan Tuna and White Bean Salad
A Mediterranean-inspired salad that combines the richness of tuna with the creaminess of white beans, all in one pan!
Ingredients:
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 lemon, cut into wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
4. Stir in the flaked tuna, cooked cannellini beans, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve warm, garnished with chopped parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Spicy Tuna Sushi Roll with Cucumber
This refreshing sushi roll combines the spicy kick of tuna sashimi with the coolness of cucumber, all wrapped up in a delicate sheet of nori seaweed.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna sashimi (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of wasabi mayonnaise
– 1 cucumber, sliced into thin strips
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Lay the nori sheet flat on a sushi mat or a piece of parchment paper.
2. Spread a thin layer of wasabi mayonnaise onto the nori, leaving a small border at the top.
3. Place the flaked tuna on top of the wasabi mayonnaise.
4. Arrange the cucumber slices horizontally across the tuna.
5. Roll the sushi using the mat or parchment paper, applying gentle pressure.
6. Slice into individual pieces and serve with soy sauce and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes ( preparation time: 5 minutes)
Tuna Stuffed Bell Peppers with Herbs
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the omega-richness of tuna with the sweetness of bell peppers and a hint of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1/4 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers, removing seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix tuna, rice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, basil, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the tuna mixture, filling as full as possible.
5. Place peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
7. Optional: Sprinkle mozzarella cheese on top of peppers during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Simple Tuna and Corn Quesadilla
This recipe combines the flavors of tuna salad with the comfort of a warm quesadilla, perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With only a few ingredients and simple steps, you can enjoy this tasty treat in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 large tortillas
– Shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack work well)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, corn kernels, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
2. Place one tortilla on a flat surface and spoon half of the tuna mixture onto half of the tortilla.
3. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the tuna mixture.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook the quesadilla in a large skillet or griddle over medium heat for 2-3 minutes on each side, until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
6. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 4-5 minutes per quesadilla
Tuna and Chickpea Lettuce Wraps
These wraps are a flavorful and healthy snack or meal that combines the protein-packed punch of tuna with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in crunchy lettuce leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, chickpeas, parsley, and lemon juice. Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Lay a lettuce leaf flat on a plate or surface.
4. Place about 1/4 cup of the tuna-chickpea mixture in the center of the leaf.
5. Fold the lettuce leaves over the filling to create a wrap shape, then repeat with remaining ingredients.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Garlic Butter Tuna and Rice Bowl
Savor the combination of flaky tuna, savory garlic butter, and fluffy rice in this easy-to-make bowl dish. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of unsalted butter
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
4. Stir in the flaked tuna and cook for an additional minute.
5. To assemble the bowls, place a scoop of cooked rice on the bottom, followed by the garlic butter tuna mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Easy Tuna Nicoise Salad with Green Beans
Easy Tuna Nicoise Salad with Green Beans
A classic salad gets a boost from the addition of green beans and canned tuna, making it a quick and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained), 6 oz
– 4 cups fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 medium tomatoes, diced
– 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the green beans and cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, tomatoes, olives, red onion, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. To assemble the salad, place the cooked green beans on a plate, then top with the tuna mixture.
4. Drizzle with white wine vinegar (if using) and serve.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Egg Fried Rice with Soy Sauce
Elevate your rice game with this quick and flavorful recipe that combines the richness of tuna, eggs, and soy sauce. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can of tuna in oil (drained), flaked
– 2 large eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Push the onion aside, add the garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Add the flaked tuna, cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for about 5 minutes or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Quick Tuna Ceviche with Lime and Avocado
This refreshing and flavorful ceviche is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or snack. With its bright citrus flavors and creamy avocado, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna and lime juice.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the fish to “cook” in the acidity of the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in the diced avocado.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Tuna and Spinach Stuffed Baked Potato
A twist on the classic baked potato, this recipe combines the flavors of tuna and spinach with a crispy, golden-brown potato.
Ingredients:
– 2-3 large baking potatoes
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Wash and poke some holes in the potatoes, then bake for 45-50 minutes or until tender.
3. While potatoes are baking, mix tuna, spinach, and cheese in a bowl.
4. Once potatoes are done, let them cool for 5 minutes before slicing them in half lengthwise.
5. Stuff each potato with the tuna-spinach mixture, drizzling with olive oil and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes (potatoes) + 5 minutes (stuffing)
Mediterranean Tuna Pita Pocket
Experience the flavors of the Mediterranean with this refreshing tuna pita pocket, packed with juicy tuna, crispy feta cheese, and creamy hummus. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of hummus
– 2 tablespoons of chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup of crumbled feta cheese
– 1 pita bread, warmed
– Lettuce leaves (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine tuna, hummus, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Cut the pita bread in half lengthwise.
3. Spoon the tuna mixture onto one half of the pita bread.
4. Top with crumbled feta cheese.
5. Add lettuce leaves if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Creamy Tuna Macaroni Salad with Dill
This refreshing salad is perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a side dish for your next gathering. The combination of creamy tuna, tender pasta, and bright dill flavor will be a hit with everyone!
Ingredients:
– 8 oz macaroni
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the flaked tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well to combine.
3. Add the cooked macaroni, chopped fresh dill, and Greek yogurt to the tuna mixture. Stir until everything is fully incorporated.
4. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Olive Tapenade Crostini
Elevate your appetizer game with this simple yet impressive recipe, featuring tuna-packed tapenade on toasted crostini.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of high-quality tuna (drained)
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 12-15 crostini slices (store-bought or homemade)
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Toast the crostini slices for 5-7 minutes, or until lightly browned.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, olives, olive oil, garlic, and Dijon mustard. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Spread about 1/2 teaspoon of the tapenade mixture onto each toasted crostini slice.
4. Garnish with fresh parsley leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Summary
Looking for quick and easy tuna recipes to spice up your weeknights? Look no further! This article features 17 delicious tuna recipes that are perfect for busy evenings. From classic tuna salad sandwiches to creative dishes like tuna-stuffed bell peppers and Mediterranean pita pockets, there’s something for everyone. Each recipe is easy to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, these tuna recipes are sure to become new favorites.
