When it comes to quick and easy meals, few ingredients can rival the versatility and flavor of canned tuna in oil. This pantry staple is a game-changer for busy home cooks, providing a reliable source of protein that can be used in a wide range of dishes. From classic pasta sauces to innovative salads and sandwiches, tuna in oil is the perfect base for a quick meal.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious recipes that showcase the best of what canned tuna in oil has to offer. From hearty main courses to light and refreshing snacks, these recipes are sure to inspire your next meal prep or impromptu dinner party. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, you’ll find something to love among our collection of tuna in oil recipes.
Tuna in Oil Pasta with Garlic and Chili
This recipe combines the flavors of garlic, chili, and tuna in a simple and satisfying pasta dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. spaghetti
– 1 can (5 oz.) of tuna in oil, drained and flaked
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of chili flakes
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the chili flakes and cook for an additional 30 seconds, until they start to darken in color.
4. Stir in the flaked tuna, breaking up any large chunks with a spoon. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti and tuna mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna in Oil and White Bean Salad
This classic Italian-inspired salad combines the rich flavors of tuna in oil with creamy cannellini beans, creating a satisfying and protein-packed snack or light meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in oil, drained
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/4 cup chopped red onion
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, cannellini beans, red onion, and garlic.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Tuna in Oil Bruschetta with Tomatoes
This refreshing appetizer combines the savory flavors of tuna, tomatoes, and garlic on toasted bread, perfect for a light and satisfying start to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in oil (drained)
– 4-6 cherry tomatoes, halved
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 slices of baguette, toasted
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together the tuna, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Arrange the toasted bread slices on a baking sheet.
4. Spoon about 1 tablespoon of the tuna mixture onto each bread slice.
5. Top with a halved cherry tomato.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including toasting time)
Tuna in Oil and Avocado Toast
A classic combination of flavors and textures, this recipe is a perfect snack or light meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in oil (drained)
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread one slice with the mashed avocado.
3. Top the avocado with the tuna in oil, breaking it up with a fork if needed.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Place the second slice of toasted bread on top to complete the toast.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes
Tips:
– Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of tuna and avocado to your liking.
– Consider adding other toppings, such as red onion or capers, for added flavor.
Tuna in Oil Niçoise Salad
A classic French salad that combines the flavors of tuna, potatoes, green beans, and eggs with a tangy vinaigrette. This recipe is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a light lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in oil (drained)
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, boiled and diced
– 1 cup of green beans, trimmed
– 4 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the diced potatoes, green beans, and sliced eggs.
2. Add the drained tuna in oil to the bowl and gently stir to combine.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and red wine vinegar.
4. Pour the vinaigrette over the salad and toss to coat.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Tuna in Oil Stuffed Bell Peppers
This recipe combines the freshness of bell peppers with the savory flavor of tuna, all wrapped up in a flavorful and healthy package. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
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 together tuna, garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the tuna mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake for 30-40 minutes, or until tender.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Tuna in Oil and Olive Tapenade
Tuna in Oil and Olive Tapenade Recipe
Introduction
Elevate your tuna game with this simple yet flavorful recipe that combines the richness of olive oil with the savory taste of tapenade.
Ingredients
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of olive tapenade
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked tuna and olive oil.
2. Mix well until the tuna is coated evenly with the olive oil.
3. Add the olive tapenade to the tuna mixture and stir gently until combined.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time
No cooking required! This recipe is a simple assembly of ingredients, so you can enjoy it in just a few minutes.
Tuna in Oil Panzanella Salad
Panzanella salad gets a seafood boost with this simple recipe, combining canned tuna, crispy bread, and tangy flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in oil, drained
– 4 cups stale bread, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Toss bread cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until bread is toasted and crispy.
4. In a large bowl, combine tuna, cherry tomatoes, parsley, and toasted bread.
5. Drizzle red wine vinegar over the salad and toss to combine.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Tuna in Oil and Eggplant Caponata
Tuna in Oil and Eggplant Caponata Recipe: A Classic Sicilian Combination
This recipe brings together the simplicity of tuna marinated in olive oil with the rich flavors of eggplant caponata, a traditional Sicilian relish. Perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as an appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cup of olive oil
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 medium-sized eggplant, diced
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1/4 cup of capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Meanwhile, heat some olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the eggplant and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add the onion to the pan and cook until translucent.
5. Stir in the capers and season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve the tuna on top of the eggplant caponata.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tuna in Oil and Potato Frittata
Tuna in Oil and Potato Frittata: A flavorful twist on the classic brunch dish, this recipe combines the richness of tuna with the earthiness of potatoes, all wrapped up in a creamy egg blanket.
Ingredients:
– 6 eggs
– 1 medium potato, peeled and diced
– 1 can of tuna in oil (drained)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs and a pinch of salt.
3. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Add diced potato and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add tuna in oil to the skillet and stir to combine with potatoes. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Pour egg mixture over the tuna-potato mixture and cook until eggs start to set, about 2-3 minutes.
6. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes or until eggs are fully cooked and frittata is golden brown.
7. Remove from oven and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Tuna in Oil and Chickpea Stew
This hearty stew is a flavorful combination of tuna, chickpeas, and aromatic spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 can of chickpeas (drained and rinsed)
– 1 cup of vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon of ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon of smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the flaked tuna, chickpeas, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer, uncovered, for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna in Oil and Lemon Spaghetti
Tuna in Oil and Lemon Spaghetti Recipe
A refreshing twist on traditional pasta dishes, this recipe combines the richness of tuna with the brightness of lemon and garlic.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz spaghetti
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 can (6 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 lemons, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook spaghetti according to package instructions until al dente.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, or until fragrant.
3. Add flaked tuna and stir to combine with garlic and oil. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, or until heated through.
4. Stir in lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Combine cooked spaghetti with tuna mixture, tossing to combine.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna in Oil and Artichoke Dip
A classic Mediterranean-inspired snack that combines the savory flavors of tuna, artichoke hearts, and rich olive oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– 1/4 cup chopped artichoke hearts
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, artichoke hearts, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined.
2. Stir in the sliced olives and olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This dip is ready to serve straight from the fridge.
Tuna in Oil and Cucumber Bites
A refreshing and flavorful appetizer or snack that combines the richness of tuna with the crunch of cucumber and a hint of oil.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, salt, and pepper.
2. Arrange the cucumber slices on a serving plate or platter.
3. Spoon small amounts of the tuna mixture onto each cucumber slice, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Drizzle the olive oil over the tuna and cucumbers.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: None required! This recipe is ready in just a few minutes.
Tuna in Oil and Tomato Galette
This recipe combines the flavors of tuna, garlic, and tomatoes in a flaky pastry crust, perfect for a quick and easy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in oil (drained)
– 2 large tomatoes, diced
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 sheet of frozen puff pastry, thawed
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roll out the puff pastry on a lightly floured surface to a thickness of about 1/8 inch.
3. In a small bowl, mix together the tuna, garlic, and salt.
4. Arrange the tuna mixture on one half of the pastry, leaving a 1/2-inch border around the edges.
5. Top with the diced tomatoes.
6. Fold the other half of the pastry over the filling to form a triangle or a square shape.
7. Press the edges to seal and use a fork to crimp.
8. Brush the top with a little water and sprinkle with chopped parsley if desired.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna in Oil and Spinach Stuffed Shells
Elevate your pasta game with this unique twist on classic stuffed shells! Tuna in oil adds a rich, savory flavor to the spinach filling, making for a satisfying and healthy meal.
Ingredients:
– 12 jumbo pasta shells
– 1 can tuna in oil (drained)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1 cup ricotta cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook pasta shells according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a bowl, mix tuna, spinach, ricotta cheese, and egg. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each shell with the tuna-spinach mixture, leaving a small border at the top.
5. Place stuffed shells in a baking dish, drizzle with olive oil, and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna in Oil and Roasted Pepper Wrap
This recipe combines the richness of tuna with the smoky flavor of roasted peppers, all wrapped up in a crispy tortilla. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 roasted red peppers, sliced into strips
– 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 large tortilla
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Roast the red peppers in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until charred.
3. Remove the peppers from the oven and let them cool.
4. In a small bowl, mix together the tuna, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
5. Slice the roasted peppers into strips.
6. Lay the tortilla flat and spread the tuna mixture evenly across the center of the tortilla.
7. Top with the roasted pepper strips.
8. Fold the bottom half of the tortilla up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap to seal.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (roasting time) + 5 minutes to assemble the wrap.
Tuna in Oil and Zucchini Fritters
A twist on traditional fritters, this recipe combines the savory flavor of tuna with the crunch of zucchini and a hint of Mediterranean flair from olive oil. Perfect as an appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in oil (drained)
– 2 medium zucchinis, grated
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
– Olive oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix together tuna, zucchini, flour, egg, salt, and pepper.
2. Heat about 1-2 inches of olive oil in a deep frying pan over medium-high heat.
3. Using a spoon, drop small amounts of the tuna-zucchini mixture into the hot oil.
4. Fry for 2-3 minutes on each side or until golden brown.
5. Drain fritters on paper towels and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (depending on size of fritters)
Summary
Get ready to reel in some flavor with these 18 mouth-watering tuna in oil recipes! From quick meals to satisfying salads, these dishes are sure to impress. Try your hand at Tuna in Oil Pasta with Garlic and Chili, or go for a lighter option like Tuna in Oil and White Bean Salad. Alternatively, indulge in richer flavors with Tuna in Oil Bruschetta with Tomatoes or Tuna in Oil Stuffed Bell Peppers. Whatever your taste, there’s something for everyone in this delicious collection of tuna recipes.
