Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes Recipe
If you’re looking for a light, flavorful dish that’s easy to whip up on a busy weeknight, look no further than these Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes! Packed with protein and bursting with zesty lemon flavor, these cakes are a delightful twist on traditional tuna patties. With a crispy exterior and a tender inside, they’re perfect for serving with a fresh salad or as a filling sandwich. So grab your ingredients and let’s dive into this delicious recipe!
Why This Recipe Works
Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes are not only simple to prepare but also incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender tuna, aromatic garlic, and bright lemon zest creates a flavor profile that is both refreshing and comforting. The addition of Parmesan cheese and breadcrumbs gives these cakes a delightful texture, while the olive oil ensures they are perfectly crispy when cooked. This recipe is versatile, allowing you to serve it as a main dish or an appetizer, making it a fantastic choice for any occasion.
Ingredient Notes
- 10 oz tuna in water: Use two 5-ounce cans, well-drained. Albacore tuna is a great option for its mild flavor.
- 3 garlic cloves: Grated for maximum flavor infusion.
- 1/2 cup finely chopped white onion: Adds sweetness and moisture to the cakes.
- 1 teaspoon salt: Enhances the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: For a hint of spice.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice: Brightens the flavor profile.
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest: Provides a burst of citrus aroma.
- 1 large egg: Acts as a binder for the cakes.
- 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs: Helps to hold the mixture together.
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and moisture.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Gives a savory flavor and enhances the texture.
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley: For a touch of color and flavor.
- 4 tablespoons plain breadcrumbs: For coating the cakes before frying.
- 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese: For the coating mixture to add extra flavor.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: Divided for frying the cakes.
Setup & Equipment
- Mixing bowl: For combining all the ingredients.
- Frying pan: For cooking the tuna cakes to golden perfection.
- Spatula: For flipping the cakes without breaking them.
- Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Grater: For grating garlic and Parmesan cheese.
Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes Recipe: From Prep to Plate
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by draining the tuna thoroughly and placing it in a mixing bowl. Grate the garlic cloves and add them to the bowl along with the finely chopped white onion, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Step 2: Mix in the Bindings
Add the egg, 1/2 cup of plain breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley to the mixture. Use a fork or your hands to combine everything until it’s well mixed but not overworked.
Step 3: Form the Cakes
With clean hands, divide the mixture into equal portions and form them into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Place the patties on a plate and chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help them hold together during cooking.
Step 4: Prepare the Coating
In a small bowl, combine the remaining 4 tablespoons of plain breadcrumbs and 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Gently press each tuna cake into the breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides.
Step 5: Heat the Oil
In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add half of the tuna cakes to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it.
Step 6: Cook the Cakes
Cook the cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan for the second batch and repeat the cooking process.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Once all the cakes are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or atop a fresh salad. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes!
No-Store Runs Needed
- Canned tuna is a pantry staple, making this recipe perfect for a quick meal.
- Most of the other ingredients, like garlic, onion, and breadcrumbs, are common household items.
- This recipe is adaptable; you can substitute ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- If you don’t have fresh parsley, feel free to leave it out or use another dried herb.
Troubles You Can Avoid
When making Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes, here are a few tips to avoid common pitfalls:
- Ensure the tuna is well-drained to prevent soggy cakes.
- Don’t skip chilling the patties; this helps them hold their shape while cooking.
- Be careful not to overcrowd the frying pan, as this can lead to uneven cooking.
- Adjust the heat as necessary; if the cakes are browning too quickly, reduce the heat to cook them through without burning.
How to Store & Reheat
If you have leftovers or want to make these cakes ahead of time, follow these storage tips:
- Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- To freeze, place the uncooked patties on a baking sheet and freeze until solid, then transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Reheat cooked cakes in a frying pan over medium heat for best results, or use an oven set to 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
- For frozen uncooked patties, cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
Quick Q&A
Can I use different types of fish for this recipe?
Yes! You can substitute canned salmon or even cooked shredded chicken if you prefer. The flavors will change slightly, but the recipe will still be delicious.
What can I serve with Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes?
These cakes pair wonderfully with a fresh salad, a side of roasted vegetables, or even on a toasted bun for a seafood sandwich.
Can I omit the Parmesan cheese?
Yes, you can omit the Parmesan cheese if you’re looking for a dairy-free option. You can also substitute it with a dairy-free cheese alternative if desired.
How do I know when the cakes are cooked through?
The cakes should be golden brown on the outside and firm to the touch. You can also use a food thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 145°F (63°C).
Wrap-Up
Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes are a delightful addition to your dinner rotation, offering a healthy yet indulgent option that the whole family will love. With their bright flavors and satisfying crunch, these cakes are sure to impress your guests or become a quick go-to meal for yourself. The best part? They come together in less than an hour, making them perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekend lunches. So, gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy every bite of your homemade Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes!
Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Start by draining the tuna thoroughly and placing it in a mixing bowl. Grate the garlic cloves and add them to the bowl along with the finely chopped white onion, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
- Add the egg, 1/2 cup of plain breadcrumbs, mayonnaise, grated Parmesan cheese, and dried parsley to the mixture. Use a fork or your hands to combine everything until it’s well mixed but not overworked.
- With clean hands, divide the mixture into equal portions and form them into small patties, about 2 inches in diameter. Place the patties on a plate and chill in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes to help them hold together during cooking.
- In a small bowl, combine the remaining 4 tablespoons of plain breadcrumbs and 3 tablespoons of grated Parmesan cheese. Gently press each tuna cake into the breadcrumb mixture to coat both sides.
- In a large frying pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add half of the tuna cakes to the pan, making sure not to overcrowd it.
- Cook the cakes for about 3-4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and crispy. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the pan for the second batch and repeat the cooking process.
- Once all the cakes are cooked, transfer them to a plate lined with paper towels to absorb any excess oil. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce or atop a fresh salad. Enjoy the delightful flavors of your Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes!
Notes
- Ensure the tuna is well-drained to prevent soggy cakes.
- Chill the patties before cooking to help them hold their shape.
- Don’t overcrowd the frying pan for even cooking.
- Adjust the heat to avoid burning while ensuring they cook through.
