Seafood, Fish | Pescatarian Ketogenic High Protein

Tuna

Thunnus spp. Allergens: Fish
Tuna

Sourcing & Taxonomy

  • Family Scombridae
  • Primary Cuisine Global
  • Seasonality Year-Round
  • Source Ocean-caught fish

The Forktionary Angle

"Beyond the can, tuna offers remarkable versatility, from delicate sashimi to hearty grilled steaks."

Definition

A saltwater finfish from the mackerel family, popular for its firm, meaty flesh, commonly canned or fresh for various culinary uses.

Sensory Profile

TasteUmami, Savory, Salty, Meaty, Slightly Briny
TextureFlaky (cooked), Firm (raw), Meaty, Moist
AromaOcean, Briny, Fishy
AcidityLow

Technical Metrics

Average Protein Content

25g per 100g

Global Consumption Rank

Top 5 Fish

Mercury Levels (Albacore vs. Skipjack)

Higher in Albacore

Nutrition Facts

Per 85g (3 oz)
Calories116 kcal
Total Fat1 g
Saturated Fat0.25 g
Trans Fat0 g
Cholesterol30 mg
Protein25.5 g
Total Carbohydrate0 g
Dietary Fiber0 g
Total Sugars0 g
Calcium10 mg
Iron1 mg
Potassium270 mg

Chef’s Secret

When making tuna salad, add a small amount of pickle juice or vinegar to brighten the flavor and cut through the richness. For fresh tuna, sear quickly over high heat to keep the interior rare.

Substitutions

Best Match

Salmon

1:1

Similar flaky texture, high in Omega-3, distinct rich flavor.

Canned Chicken

1:1

For texture and protein in salads, less fishy flavor.

Chickpeas (mashed)

1:1

Vegan alternative for texture in 'tuna' salad, absorbs flavors well.

Mackerel

1:1

Stronger flavor, but good for similar applications, oily fish.

Buying Guide

For fresh tuna, look for firm, bright red flesh without dark spots. For canned, choose sustainably caught varieties in water or olive oil.

Flavor Pairings

Mayonnaise celery onion capers lemon pasta rice salads soy sauce ginger.

Recipes Using Tuna

Seafood Time To Make Tuna Equipment

All In One Tuna Casserole

This creamy, dreamy tuna casserole is a family favorite! Updated and improved for ultimate deliciousness, this recipe boasts a perfectly balanced blend of tuna, veggies, and cheesy goodness. Easy to make and even easier to love, this casserole is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering. Get ready to experience the ultimate comfort food!

See Complete Recipe
Dietary Egg Free Low Cholesterol Pasta

Almost Fat Free Tuna Helper Healthy

Craving Tuna Helper but want a healthier, lighter option? This recipe tastes almost identical to the classic, but it's surprisingly low in fat and packed with nutrients! Made with pureed chickpeas for a creamy texture and wholesome ingredients, this satisfying meal is ready in under 30 minutes. Get ready for a guilt-free comfort food experience!

See Complete Recipe
15 Minutes Or Less Preparation Dietary Appetizers

Amish Dip

This incredibly addictive Amish Dip recipe comes from Marsha Adams, the beloved host of the American Public Television show, *Quilt Country*. Get ready to experience a flavor explosion! Perfectly creamy and tangy, this dip is equally delicious scooped with chips or slathered on hearty bread. We've added a touch of vibrant color with pimento-stuffed Spanish olives (shhh...we use sliced ones for a budget-friendly secret!). This is the perfect appetizer for your next gathering – or a quick and satisfying lunch.

See Complete Recipe
Preparation Easy Seafood Pasta Rice And Grains

Angel Hair Tuna

Ready in 20 minutes, this light and flavorful Angel Hair Tuna Pasta is the perfect weeknight dinner solution! This easy recipe elevates simple tuna to a gourmet experience, ideal for busy weeknights. Quick, delicious, and satisfying – the perfect pasta dish!

See Complete Recipe
Lunch Cuisine Salads Beans

Antipasti Di Tonno E Fagioli

Escape the heat with this vibrant Antipasti Di Tonno E Fagioli! This elegant tuna and white bean salad is perfect as a light summer lunch or a sophisticated appetizer. Made with high-quality tuna packed in olive oil (save that precious oil for the dressing!), this recipe is surprisingly quick to prepare and boasts incredible flavor. Simply chill and enjoy! #tunasalad #antipasti #italiansalad #summerrecipe #easyrecipe #appetizer #lunchrecipe

See Complete Recipe
4 Hours Or Less Course Stove Top Dinner Party

Antipasto

This award-winning antipasto recipe is a flavor explosion! Requested at every gathering, it's unbelievably delicious on crackers or as a stunning cold topping for brie. This vibrant medley of marinated vegetables, olives, and seafood is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Perfect for parties, appetizers, or a unique addition to your charcuterie board.

See Complete Recipe
Inexpensive Saltwater Fish 60 Minutes Or Less Occasion

Any Kind Casserole

This incredibly versatile casserole recipe is a family favorite, adaptable to countless variations! Inspired by thrifty cooking blogs, this recipe uses simple ingredients and offers a creamy, comforting dish every time. Perfect for using up leftover veggies or creating a delicious meal from scratch. Pre-boiling the potatoes ensures a perfectly tender texture. Customize with your favorite add-ins – the possibilities are endless!

See Complete Recipe
30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Fish Saltwater Fish

Apple Curry Tuna Melt

Spice up your lunchtime routine with this unexpected twist on a classic! Our Apple Curry Tuna Melt combines the creamy goodness of tuna with the sweet tang of apples and a warm curry kick. Toasted bread, melted cheese, and crunchy walnuts complete this flavor explosion. Get ready for a delicious and surprisingly easy recipe that will become your new favorite!

See Complete Recipe
Course 30 Minutes Or Less Course Tuna

Aunt Bonnie's Ring Macaroni Tuna Salad

A nostalgic blast from the past! This creamy tuna salad recipe, reminiscent of 1960s Minnesota barbeques, features delightful Creamette macaroni rings (or anellini). Aunt Bonnie's secret? A simple yet incredibly flavorful combination that's perfect for potlucks, picnics, or a light lunch. Get ready to taste a piece of family history!

See Complete Recipe
Comfort Food American Comfort Food Served Hot

Aunt Tooti's Tuna Heroes

A heartwarming recipe passed down through generations, Aunt Tooti's Tuna Heroes are surprisingly delicious and incredibly easy to make! This baked tuna melt recipe features a creamy tuna salad filling, nestled between slices of bread and topped with melty Swiss cheese. Get ready for a nostalgic taste of comfort food that's perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a family gathering. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to become a family favorite!

See Complete Recipe
30 Minutes Or Less Low Saturated Fat Easy Occasion

Aussie Tuna Summer Salad

Beat the heat with this refreshing Aussie Tuna Summer Salad! A complete and delicious meal perfect for those scorching summer days when you don't want to turn on the oven. This light yet satisfying salad is packed with flavor and will leave you feeling full without the sluggishness. Escape the kitchen heat and enjoy this easy 16-minute recipe!

See Complete Recipe
Served Hot Preparation Comfort Food Dietary

Australian Tuna Bake

A classic Aussie comfort food! This creamy tuna bake, inspired by a 2005 recipe from Mietta's website, is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy tender tuna mixed with peas and cheese, topped with a crispy cornflake crust. Get ready for a taste of Australia!

See Complete Recipe
Preparation 15 Minutes Or Less Beginner Cook Time To Make

Bagel Tuna Melt

Elevate your lunchtime routine with this gooey, flavorful Bagel Tuna Melt! A delightful twist on a classic tuna salad, this recipe features perfectly toasted bagels topped with creamy tuna salad, juicy tomato slices, and melted cheese. A quick and easy recipe perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal or a weekend brunch.

See Complete Recipe
Rice 30 Minutes Or Less Main Ingredient Long Grain Rice

Baked Brown Rice Tuna Casserole

This creamy and comforting Baked Brown Rice Tuna Casserole is a family-friendly favorite, ready in under 30 minutes! Featuring fluffy brown rice, flaky tuna, and a tangy lemon dressing, topped with crispy onion rings, this recipe is a delicious twist on a classic.

See Complete Recipe
Course Course Time To Make Vegetables

Baked Potatoes With Tuna And Cheese

Forget tuna salad! This recipe transforms baked potatoes into a savory masterpiece. Creamy tuna, melted cheese, and your favorite toppings create a satisfying and surprisingly elegant meal. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend treat. Prep time excludes potato baking (oven, microwave, or slow cooker methods welcome!).

See Complete Recipe
Pasta Rice And Grains Easy Course Dietary

Best Macaroni Salad

This creamy macaroni salad recipe is a crowd-pleaser, easily customizable to your taste! The classic combo of macaroni and creamy dressing is the star, but feel free to experiment with add-ins like tuna, radishes, scallions, or anything your heart desires. This recipe provides a flexible base for your perfect macaroni salad. Prep time includes cooking the pasta; chill for at least 30 minutes for best results.

See Complete Recipe
Course Course Fish Seafood

Bill Clinton's Tuna Salad Sandwich

Ready to vote? Fuel up first with this hearty and delicious tuna salad sandwich! Inspired by a classic recipe and given a little Arkansas twist, this recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or pre-election day boost. Get ready for a flavor explosion in every bite!

See Complete Recipe