Tuna Burgers

Tuna Burgers

Tuna burgers are a delicious and healthy twist on the classic beef burger. Made with fresh tuna, these burgers are packed with protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and flavorful ingredients that make each bite incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re looking to enjoy a lighter alternative to beef or just want to try something new, tuna burgers are the perfect option.

With a crispy exterior and a moist, tender interior, these burgers can be served on a bun with all your favorite toppings, or simply enjoyed with a side salad for a low-carb meal. They’re quick to prepare, flavorful, and sure to impress your family or guests.

Ingredients:

For the Tuna Patties:

1 lb fresh tuna, sushi-grade, finely chopped (or canned tuna, drained and flaked)

1/4 cup breadcrumbs (preferably panko)

2 tbsp mayonnaise

1 tbsp Dijon mustard

1 tbsp soy sauce

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

1 egg

Salt and pepper, to taste

1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)

For Serving:

4 whole wheat or brioche burger buns

Lettuce leaves

Tomato slices

Red onion slices

Avocado slices (optional)

Tartar sauce or aioli (optional)

How to Make:

Prepare the Tuna Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the finely chopped fresh tuna (or drained canned tuna) with the breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, soy sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, fresh parsley, and egg. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to taste. Gently mix all the ingredients together until well combined, being careful not to overwork the tuna. Over-mixing can make the patties tough.

Form the Patties: Divide the tuna mixture into 4 equal portions. Gently shape each portion into a round patty, pressing lightly to form a uniform thickness. Be sure not to compact the patties too tightly, as they need to remain tender.

Cook the Tuna Burgers: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tuna patties to the pan. Cook for about 3-4 minutes per side, or until the patties are golden brown on the outside and cooked through but still moist on the inside. Tuna cooks quickly, so be sure not to overcook it. The center should remain slightly pink for the best texture.

Assemble the Burgers: Toast the burger buns in the pan or on a grill for a few minutes until lightly golden. Place a lettuce leaf on the bottom of each bun, then top with a tuna patty. Add a slice of tomato, red onion, and avocado (if using). Optionally, spread tartar sauce or aioli on the top bun for extra flavor. Place the top bun on and serve immediately.

Serve: Serve the tuna burgers with your favorite sides, such as sweet potato fries, a crisp salad, or roasted vegetables. Enjoy!

Chef’s Note:

For a more flavorful burger, you can experiment with seasonings like fresh lemon zest, chili flakes, or finely chopped capers. If you prefer a slightly richer flavor, adding a bit of grated Parmesan cheese to the mixture can elevate the taste. To make the burgers even more festive, top them with a fried egg or serve with a tangy pickled cucumber relish. You can also serve these burgers with a side of homemade coleslaw for a classic diner-style meal.

If you’re using canned tuna, be sure to choose high-quality, wild-caught tuna to ensure the best taste. Fresh tuna, however, provides the most tender and flavorful burgers. If you want to make the burgers more substantial, consider adding a slice of melted cheese like cheddar or Swiss for extra creaminess.

Nutrition Information (per serving, 1 burger with bun, 4 servings total):

Calories: 320

Protein: 30g

Carbohydrates: 30g

Fat: 14g

Saturated Fat: 2g

Cholesterol: 80mg

Sodium: 700mg

Fiber: 4g

Sugars: 6g

Tuna burgers offer a light and flavorful alternative to traditional beef burgers, and they’re packed with nutrients that support a healthy diet. They’re perfect for a summer barbecue or a weeknight dinner and are guaranteed to be a hit at the table. With their tender texture, savory flavor, and customizable toppings, tuna burgers are a fresh and exciting addition to your culinary repertoire.