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Homemade Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes Recipe photo

Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes Recipe

These Lemon Garlic Tuna Cakes are a quick, protein-packed dish bursting with zesty flavor! Perfect for a busy weeknight meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

For the Tuna Cakes:
  • 10 oz tuna in water well-drained
  • 3 cloves garlic grated
  • 1/2 cup white onion finely chopped
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 tablespoon lemon zest
  • 1 large egg
  • 1/2 cup plain breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • 4 tablespoons plain breadcrumbs for coating
  • 3 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese for coating
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil divided for frying

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Frying pan
  • Spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Grater

Method
 

Preparation Steps:
  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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.
  7. 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.