The scorching temperatures in Tennessee have already become unbearable, pushing me to seek out meals that require minimal heat. This week, I found solace in these easy-to-make Tuna Patties (also known as Tuna Cakes). They can be whipped up in no time, and when served over a bed of greens, they are simply delightful. Plus, they provide the perfect excuse to indulge in my beloved Comeback Sauce. 😉
What is a Tuna Patty?
Tuna patties resemble burgers, but they are crafted using canned tuna. Along with tuna, they typically incorporate egg, breadcrumbs, and various seasonings for enhanced taste. The blend is shaped into patties and fried until they acquire a delightful golden brown color. The greatest advantage of tuna patties lies in their versatility, as they can be seasoned in countless ways. Hence, they make for a quick and effortless meal that can be enjoyed repeatedly without losing its appeal!
How to Season Tuna Cakes
I incorporated Tony Chachere’s Creole seasoning, one of my preferred seasonings, into my tuna cakes. This seasoning is essentially a blend of Creole-flavored seasoning salt. In case you are unable to locate Tony’s or simply prefer an alternative, you can opt for a different seasoning salt such as Lawry’s or try out various seasoning blends like Old Bay Seasoning, lemon pepper, or even curry powder. However, remember that if your chosen seasoning blend lacks salt, it is advisable to add a bit more to your patty mixture.
How to Serve Tuna Patties
One of the ways I absolutely love serving tuna patties is atop a bed of fresh greens, resembling a salad, complemented with a touch of my mouthwatering Comeback Sauce. Alternatively, you can stuff them into a pita with juicy tomatoes, crisp greens, and a drizzle of sauce. And for a delightful party appetizer, why not create mini cakes, serve them with toothpicks, and provide a delectable dipping sauce!
Sauce Options
As previously stated, I paired my tuna patties with Comeback Sauce. However, if you’re not a fan of that sauce or simply want to explore other options, there are numerous alternatives that would complement these tuna patties wonderfully. For a refreshing and uncomplicated choice, a hint of fresh lemon juice would be fantastic. Additionally, you can experiment with sauces such as sriracha mayo, ranch dressing, tartar sauce, yogurt dill sauce, or creamy Caesar dressing.
How to Make Tuna Patties – Step by Step Photos
Chop approximately 2 tablespoons of parsley and two green onions into small pieces. I prefer chopping the green onions instead of slicing them, as it allows for better integration. Ensure to drain one 12oz. can of chunk light tuna in water thoroughly.
Combine the drained tuna, parsley, and green onion in a bowl. Add ½ cup of plain breadcrumbs, one large egg, 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise, 1.5 teaspoons of lemon juice, and 1 teaspoon of seasoning salt.
Gently combine the ingredients until they are evenly mixed, taking care not to overmix. Personally, I prefer using my hands for this task!
I prefer using this seasoning, but feel free to choose any seasoning salt or blend that suits your taste. However, if your chosen blend lacks salt, remember to add some extra.
Start by dividing the mixture of the patty into four equal parts and shaping each portion into a patty. Next, heat a large skillet over medium heat. Once the skillet is hot, add a few tablespoons of cooking oil and swirl it around to ensure the surface is coated. Place the tuna patties onto the hot skillet.
Cook the tuna patties until they are perfectly golden brown on each side, approximately five minutes.
Make sure to serve it warm either in a pita or on a bed of fresh green salad. And don’t overlook the opportunity to prepare a small portion of Comeback Sauce to generously drizzle over the dish!
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