Deliciously Refreshing Lemon Tuna Cakes Recipe
Looking for a delicious, easy-to-make seafood recipe that will impress your family and friends? Look no further than my Zesty Lemon Tuna Cakes!
With a perfect balance of zesty lemon and tender tuna, these cakes are a crowd-pleaser that is sure to satisfy everyone’s taste buds. Whether you’re crunched on time or just need a quick and easy dish, this recipe is perfect for any occasion.
Not only is this recipe incredibly flavorful, it is also healthy and easy to customize. Whether you’re following a paleo, gluten-free, or just generally health-conscious diet, you can enjoy my Zesty Lemon Tuna Cakes guilt-free.
So why not give this recipe a try? With its easy-to-follow steps and short ingredient list, it’s the perfect choice for anyone who wants a delicious and hassle-free seafood dish.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Are you looking for a quick and easy way to add some zest to your day? Look no further than our zesty lemon tuna cakes recipe! This dish is bursting with flavor and packed with protein, making it the perfect pick-me-up for any time of day.
One of the best things about this recipe is its versatility. Need a quick breakfast? Serve these tasty tuna cakes alongside some scrambled eggs. Hosting a dinner party? Make them into bite-sized appetizers that your guests will love. Top them with your favorite sauce or eat them plain- either way, they’re sure to satisfy.
But the real star of this dish is the Starkist lemon and cracked pepper tuna fillets. Combined with garlic, onion, and other seasonings, these fillets give the cakes an irresistible tangy flavor that will leave your taste buds singing.
And don’t forget about the nutritional benefits of canned tuna. Tuna is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it an excellent choice for anyone who wants to maintain good health. Plus, it’s low in calories and carbs, so it’s ideal for those who are watching their weight.
So whether you’re looking for an easy lunch or a tasty snack, our zesty lemon tuna cakes are the perfect solution. Give them a try today and discover why they’re one of our all-time favorite recipes!
Ingredient List
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you will need for these Zesty Lemon Tuna Cakes:
Tuna Mixture:
- 4 (5-ounce) cans of Starkist lemon and cracked pepper tuna fillets, drained
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 large eggs
- 1/2 green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup finely chopped green onions
- 1/4 cup bread crumbs
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Coating:
- 1 cup bread crumbs for coating
Lemon Dill Aioli:
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill weed
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon minced garlic
All of these ingredients are easy to find at your local grocery store. Be sure to drain the tuna well before using and break it up into small flakes. The coating for the tuna cakes will be bread crumbs, which provide a crispy exterior while allowing the zesty lemon flavors to shine through. The Lemon Dill Aioli is a perfect tangy compliment to the spicy kick of the tuna cakes.
The Recipe How-To
Now, let’s get down to business: how to make these amazing Zesty Lemon Tuna Cakes. Here’s the step-by-step guide on how to make this delicious recipe.
Ingredients
To make these tasty Tuna Cakes, you’ll need:
- Two 5-ounce cans of Starkist lemon and cracked pepper tuna fillets, drained
- One egg
- 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
- 1/3 cup of bread crumbs
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped green bell pepper
- 1/4 cup of finely chopped green onions
- 2 teaspoons of lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon of lemon zest
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions
- First, in a bowl, mix together the tuna, egg, mayonnaise, mustard, breadcrumbs, bell pepper, green onions, lemon juice, lemon zest, and garlic.
- Next, shape the mixture into equal size patties (about medium size) and set aside.
- Heat a medium skillet over medium-high heat and add enough olive oil to coat the pan.
- When the pan is heated, add the tuna patties and cook until crispy on one side (about 2 minutes).
- Flip and cook the other side until crispy (about another 2 minutes).
- Remove from heat and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
These zesty lemon tuna cakes are incredible served hot or cold as an appetizer or main dish. Dip them in some Greek yogurt sauce or top them with some lemon dill aioli.
Enjoy!
Substitutions and Variations
Are you feeling adventurous and want to try something new? Or maybe you simply want to switch things up a bit? No worries, I’ve got you covered with some substitutions and variations for this zesty lemon tuna cake recipe.
Substitution options:
– Green bell pepper: Feel free to swap it out with any color bell pepper, such as red or yellow. You could also substitute it with other vegetables like chopped spinach or grated carrots.
– Dijon mustard: If you prefer a milder taste, use yellow mustard instead. For a bolder flavor, try whole grain mustard or spicy brown mustard.
– Mayonnaise: Greek yogurt is an excellent substitute for mayonnaise. It adds creaminess without the fat content of mayonnaise.
– Bread crumbs: Instead of using traditional bread crumbs, panko crumbs or crushed crackers can be used instead.
Variations:
– Lemon garlic tuna cakes: Add minced garlic to the mixture to give these cakes an extra kick of flavor.
– Spicy tuna cakes: Add chili powder or a splash of hot sauce to the mixture for those who like it hot and spicy.
– Crab cake alternative: Replace the canned tuna with crab meat for a delicious twist on this classic recipe.
– Lemon dill aioli: Create an easy tangy dipping sauce by mixing together Greek yogurt, lemon juice, and fresh dill. This pairs beautifully with lemon tuna cakes.
Whether you’re trying to avoid certain ingredients or desire alternative flavors, these substitutions and variations will certainly make your tastebuds happy. So go ahead and experiment; who knows, you just might discover something new!
Serving and Pairing
So, you’ve made these delicious zesty lemon tuna cakes, but now what? Serving and pairing is crucial in bringing out the best flavors of any dish. But don’t worry, I got you covered!
These zesty lemon tuna cakes go great on a bed of greens or served alongside some roasted vegetables such as asparagus or green beans. The bold flavors of the cakes complement the light and fresh taste of the greens and veggies.
Alternatively, you can also serve these cakes as a burger substitute by placing them inside a bun with some greens and sliced tomatoes. Yum! This is definitely a crowd-pleaser.
If you’re feeling more adventurous, try serving these cakes over some cooked quinoa and drizzle some lemon garlic sauce on top. This not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also makes this dish more filling and fulfilling.
In terms of beverages, pair these zesty lemon tuna cakes with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc to balance out the bold flavors. Or, if you’re not into alcohol, sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon would do the trick.
Remember, experimenting with different serving and pairing options can elevate any dish from good to great.
Make-Ahead, Storing and Reheating
Once you’ve whipped up a batch of these zesty lemon tuna cakes, you’ll be eager to enjoy them for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Fortunately, this recipe is adaptable to make-ahead meals and can easily be stored or reheated for later consumption.
To make ahead, simply prepare the patties as directed in the recipe and shape them into equal-sized rounds. Place them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and cover with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing in the refrigerator. You can store these patties in the fridge for up to 24 hours before cooking or freezing them.
If you plan to store your cooked tuna cakes, allow them to cool completely before transferring them to an airtight container. These cakes can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for up to one month. When ready to eat, simply heat them up in the oven or on the stovetop until they are heated through.
Reheating your zesty lemon tuna cakes is easy, and it won’t compromise their flavor or texture. To reheat in the oven, preheat at 350°F (177°C) and bake straight from the fridge for about 10-12 minutes until crispy again. If reheating on the stovetop, place each cake in a skillet over medium-high heat with a small amount of olive oil until both sides are golden brown.
With these storing and reheating tips, you can enjoy these tasty tuna cakes without compromising their crispy exterior and delicate flavor – a perfect option when meal-prepping during busy periods!
Tips for Perfect Results
Achieving perfect tuna cakes can be a bit tricky, especially if you’ve never made them before. With these essential tips, you’ll quickly become a master of crispy and delicious tuna patties.
Here are some tips and tricks for making the best Zesty Lemon Tuna Cakes possible:
1. Drain Your Tuna Well
One of the most important steps in making crispy tuna cakes is to remove as much water as possible from the canned tuna. Use a fork or a colander to drain out all of the excess water. If your tuna is too wet, it will make your cakes soggy, and no one wants that.
2. Mix Ingredients Thoroughly
Make sure to mix all of the ingredients thoroughly to ensure that each cake has an even combination of flavors. Don’t be afraid to get your hands dirty- using your hands is often the best way to make sure everything is evenly mixed together.
3. Be Gentle When Handling Patties
To avoid breaking or crumbling the patties, be gentle when shaping them. Form each patty carefully and don’t overcrowd them in the pan.
4. Squeeze Extra Moisture Out Of Bell Pepper
If you decide to add bell pepper to your tuna mixture, make sure to squeeze out any excess moisture from it before mixing it with other ingredients. Bell peppers contain quite a bit of water which can also make your cakes soggy if not properly drained.
5. Get Creative With Your Spices
Although lemon and garlic are central flavors in this recipe, it doesn’t hurt to experiment with other herbs and spices such as onion powder or chili lime seasoning mix to give the cakes an extra kick.
By following these simple tips, you’ll end up with crispy tuna cakes every time!
Bottom Line
In conclusion, the Zesty Lemon Tuna Cakes Recipe is a must-try for any seafood lover. With its delightful blend of zesty flavors and crispy texture, this recipe is sure to impress anyone who tries it. Whether you’re looking for a healthy meal option or a tasty appetizer to serve at your next party, these tuna cakes will not disappoint. With easy-to-follow instructions and a list of helpful tips and substitutions, this recipe is perfect for both novice and experienced cooks alike.
So why not give it a try? Not only is this recipe delicious and full of flavor, but it’s also an excellent source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making it a healthy choice for those looking to maintain a balanced diet. Plus, with its versatile ingredients and customizable variations, you can easily adjust the recipe to fit your personal taste preferences.
So go ahead, whip up a batch of zesty lemon tuna cakes today, and enjoy the mouthwatering flavors that only this recipe can offer. Your taste buds (and your guests) will thank you!
Zesty Lemon Tuna Cakes Recipe
Ingredients
- 5 ounces Starkist lemon and cracked pepper tuna fillets (flavored pouch)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 egg
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- 1/4 cup green bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions
- In a small bowl, mix the tuna with the next five ingredients.
- Shape mixture into four equal size patties.
- In a medium, non-stick skillet heat oil over medium heat.
- (I just covered the bottom of the pan with the oil).
- Cook and brown the patties on med-high heat for 3 to 4 minutes per side.
- When golden brown on both sides remove and serve.
Your Own Notes
Nutrition
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Steven is a chef by heritage, so it’s no wonder why baking is such a big part of who he is. To share his passion for all things sweet, he created cookiesncrepes.com. It’s the perfect platform to indulge in delicious treats, all with a sprinkle of his signature flare.