Canned tuna is a pantry staple in most households, simply because it is affordable, versatile, and always on hand when you need a quick and satisfying meal.
Many people think of canned tuna as a last resort, but this humble ingredient can be transformed into delicious and healthy dishes with a little creativity.
So, whether you are looking for a healthy lunch recipe or a quick dinner idea, these 35 easy canned tuna recipes will surely keep you satisfied.
35 Easy Canned Tuna Recipes
1. Tuna Salad
This classic salad recipe can be enjoyed in many ways, with different dressings and add-ins.
Simply mix together canned tuna, mayo, mustard, and chopped veggies like celery, onion, and bell pepper. Serve on lettuce cups or in a sandwich.
2. Mediterranean Tuna Salad
A Mediterranean twist on classic tuna salad, this dish combines flaked tuna with fresh chopped vegetables, briny olives, and a light lemony dressing.
It’s a protein-packed and flavorful option for lunch or a light dinner.
3. Tuna Melt
Give your grilled cheese a makeover with this tuna melt recipe.
Mix canned tuna with mayo, mustard, salt, and pepper, and spread on bread with sliced tomato and cheddar cheese. Grill until crispy and golden.
4. Tuna Pasta Salad
This cold pasta salad can be a meal on its own or a side dish for a BBQ or picnic.
Boil pasta and mix with canned tuna, finely chopped veggies, Italian dressing, and seasonings. Chill in the fridge for a few hours before serving.
5. Open Faced Tuna Sandwich with Avocado
This light and refreshing open-faced sandwich combines creamy avocado with protein-packed tuna for a satisfying lunch.
Toasted bread is layered with a flavorful tuna salad, followed by slices of ripe avocado, creating a delicious and healthy combination.
6. Tuna Stuffed Peppers
These colorful stuffed peppers are filled with a mixture of canned tuna, cooked rice, tomato sauce, and cheese. Bake in the oven until tender and bubbly.
7. Tuna and White Bean Salad
This protein-packed salad is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Mix canned tuna, white beans, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and parsley with a lemon and olive oil dressing.
8. Tuna Caesar Salad
Add some protein to your Caesar salad with canned tuna, croutons, and grated parmesan cheese. Drizzle with Caesar dressing and enjoy.
9. Tuna Noodle Casserole
A comforting dish of tuna, egg noodles, and creamy sauce, baked until golden brown and bubbly. Perfect for a weeknight meal.
10. Tuna Quinoa Bowl
This nutrient-packed bowl is perfect for a post-workout meal or a quick lunch. Cook quinoa in vegetable broth and mix with canned tuna, roasted veggies, avocado, and a drizzle of honey mustard dressing.
11. Tuna Nicoise Salad
This French salad is a classic combination of canned tuna, boiled potatoes, green beans, hard-boiled eggs, and olives, drizzled with a dijon mustard and vinegar dressing.
12. Tuna Baked Potato
Top a baked potato with a mixture of canned tuna, sour cream, chives, and shredded cheese. Bake in the oven until the cheese melts and enjoy.
13. Tuna Burger
This healthy twist on a classic burger is made with canned tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, and spices. Grill on a bun with your favorite toppings for a tasty and filling meal.
14. Tuna and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole is made with canned tuna, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and a topping of bread crumbs and parmesan cheese.
15. Poke Bowl with Canned Tuna
A twist on the classic poke bowl, this version uses canned tuna for a budget-friendly and protein-packed meal. It’s a quick, easy, and customizable meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or a light lunch.
16. Canned Tuna Stir-Fry
Canned tuna stir-fry is a quick and easy weeknight meal that’s packed with flavor and protein.
It’s made with canned tuna, vegetables, and a simple stir-fry sauce, and can be customized to your liking with your favorite ingredients.
17. Tuna Croquettes
Tuna croquettes are savory fritters made with flaked tuna, mashed potato, and seasonings.
They are typically deep-fried until golden brown and crispy, but can also be baked or air-fried for a healthier option. They are a delicious and versatile appetizer or snack.
18. Canned Tuna Ceviche
Canned tuna ceviche is a quick and easy dish made with flaked tuna, fresh lime juice, chopped vegetables, and cilantro.
It’s a light and refreshing option for lunch or a starter, and can be served with tostadas, crackers, or chips.
19. Tuna Quesadillas
This cheesy and flavorful quesadilla is made with canned tuna, bell pepper, and shredded cheese, and grilled to perfection.
20. Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps
Tuna lettuce wraps are a healthy and delicious alternative to traditional sandwiches. They’re packed with protein from tuna and fiber from the lettuce, making them a satisfying and portable meal.
Plus, they’re quick and easy to customize with your favorite flavors and toppings.
21. Tuna and Egg Salad
Mix canned tuna with chopped hard-boiled eggs, celery, and mayo for a simple and satisfying lunch.
22. Spicy Tuna Roll Bowl
A spicy tuna roll deconstructed into a bowl, it features savory tuna, cool and refreshing veggies, and all the delicious flavors of sushi in a casual, customizable format.
Enjoy it over rice, with avocado, cucumber, and a touch of spicy mayo for a satisfying and flavorful meal.
23. Tuna Cakes
Combine canned tuna with breadcrumbs, egg, chopped onion, and seasonings. Form into patties and pan-fry until golden brown. Serve with a dipping sauce or in a sandwich.
24. Tuna and White Bean Stew
Create a hearty stew by simmering canned tuna, white beans, diced tomatoes, and Italian seasonings. Serve with crusty bread for a satisfying dinner.
25. Tuna Lettuce Wraps
Use large lettuce leaves as wraps and fill them with canned tuna mixed with Greek yogurt, cucumber, and dill for a light and refreshing meal.
26. Tuna and Corn Chowder
Make a creamy chowder by combining canned tuna, corn kernels, diced potatoes, and a rich broth. Season with herbs and enjoy a comforting bowl of soup.
27. Tuna Bruschetta
Top toasted baguette slices with a mixture of canned tuna, diced tomatoes, red onion, fresh basil, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a flavorful appetizer.
28. Tuna and Artichoke Dip
Create a delicious dip by blending canned tuna, canned artichoke hearts, cream cheese, and seasonings. Serve with crackers or fresh veggies for dipping.
29. Tuna and Cucumber Sandwich
Make a light and refreshing sandwich by combining canned tuna, sliced cucumber, and a lemon-dill yogurt spread on whole-grain bread.
30. Tuna Pita Pockets
Fill whole wheat pita pockets with canned tuna, diced red bell pepper, spinach, and a tahini dressing for a wholesome and portable lunch.
31. Tuna and Tomato Panini
Assemble a panini by layering canned tuna, tomato slices, fresh basil, and mozzarella cheese on ciabatta bread. Grill until the cheese melts and the bread is crispy.
32. Tuna Sushi Bowl
Create a deconstructed sushi bowl with canned tuna, cooked sushi rice, avocado slices, cucumber, and pickled ginger. Drizzle with soy sauce and sesame seeds for a sushi-inspired meal.
33. Tuna and Chickpea Salad
Mix canned tuna with chickpeas, diced cucumber, red onion, and a lemon-tahini dressing for a protein-packed and flavorful salad.
34. Tuna and Broccoli Frittata
Whip up a frittata with canned tuna, steamed broccoli florets, eggs, and grated Parmesan cheese. Bake until set and golden brown for a satisfying brunch dish.
35. Tuna Tacos
Fill soft tortillas with canned tuna, shredded lettuce, diced tomato, and a drizzle of chipotle mayo for a quick and tasty taco night.
Final Thoughts,
Canned tuna is an ingredient that can be transformed into many delicious and healthy dishes, from salads to sandwiches, from pasta to stir fry.
These 35 easy canned tuna recipes are perfect for any meal of the day, and will surely keep you satisfied and happy. So, next time you are in a hurry or can’t think of what to make for dinner, grab a can of tuna and get creative in the kitchen.
