White Tuna Balls Recipe

If you’re looking for a dish that’s both light and flavorful, these White Tuna Balls are a must-try! Imagine crispy, golden-brown balls of tender tuna, seasoned to perfection and packed with a delightful blend of flavors. Perfect for a snack, appetizer, or even a main dish, these tuna balls are easy to make and guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. Whether you’re a fan of tuna or new to it, trust me—you’re going to love these!

Why You’ll Love White Tuna Balls

• Deliciously Savory: These little tuna balls are packed with savory goodness. The tuna is complemented by fresh herbs, breadcrumbs, and just the right amount of seasoning.
• Quick & Easy: You won’t have to spend hours in the kitchen to create these tasty bites. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep, you can have them ready in no time!
• Versatile: Whether served on their own with a dipping sauce, tossed into a salad, or enjoyed with pasta, these tuna balls are incredibly versatile. You can even make them ahead of time and freeze them for later!
• Healthy & Light: Made with canned tuna, they’re a light yet satisfying choice, rich in protein and great for anyone looking to enjoy a healthy meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor.

Ingredients

For the White Tuna Balls:

• Canned white tuna: The star of the show! Be sure to use good quality tuna packed in water for a lighter flavor.
• Breadcrumbs: These help bind the mixture together and create that satisfying, crispy exterior when fried.
• Eggs: Essential for binding the ingredients and keeping the tuna balls moist inside.
• Fresh parsley: Adds a burst of fresh, herby flavor that brightens up the dish.
• Garlic: Minced fresh garlic for that delicious savory aroma.
• Lemon zest: Just a bit to add a fresh, citrusy kick that complements the tuna perfectly.
• Olive oil: For sautéing the tuna balls to golden perfection.
• Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning. Adjust to taste!

(Note: Full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card below.)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture

Start by draining the canned tuna and placing it in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork to break up the tuna into smaller pieces. Add the breadcrumbs, minced garlic, chopped parsley, lemon zest, and salt and pepper to the bowl. Crack the eggs into the mixture and stir everything together until well combined.

Step 2: Shape the Tuna Balls

Once the mixture is well combined, wet your hands slightly and scoop out small portions of the mixture. Roll them into bite-sized balls, about the size of a golf ball. This should yield around 12-14 tuna balls, depending on the size.

Step 3: Cook the Tuna Balls

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, carefully add the tuna balls, making sure they are spaced out in the pan to avoid overcrowding. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy on the outside. Use tongs to turn the balls gently, ensuring even cooking.

Step 4: Drain and Serve

Once the tuna balls are cooked through and crispy on all sides, remove them from the pan and place them on a plate lined with paper towels to drain any excess oil.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the white tuna balls warm, either on their own with a dipping sauce like tartar sauce or aioli, or toss them into a salad or pasta dish for extra flavor. They also make a perfect appetizer for parties!

Nutrition Facts

Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition for one serving (based on 4 servings):

• Calories per serving: 220-250 calories
• Total Fat: 13g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 320mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 12g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 19g
• Vitamin A: 8%
• Vitamin C: 15%
• Calcium: 6%
• Iron: 10%

Preparation Time

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-15 minutes
• Total Time: 20-25 minutes

How to Serve White Tuna Balls

• As an Appetizer: Serve these tuna balls with a tangy dipping sauce like homemade tartar sauce or a spicy aioli. It’s the perfect finger food for gatherings.
• In a Salad: Toss them on top of a green salad for an extra boost of protein and flavor.
• With Pasta: Add them to your favorite pasta dish for a protein-packed, savory meal. They pair wonderfully with a simple tomato or pesto sauce.
• As a Snack: Perfect for when you’re craving something savory but light. They’re easy to make and even easier to eat!

Additional Tips

• Crisp them up: If you want your tuna balls to be extra crispy, try rolling them in some extra breadcrumbs before frying.
• Make them ahead: You can prepare the tuna balls ahead of time and refrigerate them until you’re ready to cook. They can also be frozen for up to a month—just thaw and cook when you’re ready to enjoy them.
• Add extra veggies: Want to sneak in some extra veggies? You can finely chop zucchini, bell peppers, or onions and mix them into the tuna mixture for added nutrition and flavor.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water?

A1: Yes! If you prefer a richer flavor, canned tuna packed in oil works just as well. Just be sure to drain the excess oil before using it in the recipe.

Q2: Can I bake these tuna balls instead of frying them?

A2: Absolutely! For a healthier alternative, you can bake the tuna balls at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, turning halfway through, until golden brown.

Q3: Can I make these tuna balls gluten-free?

A3: Yes! Simply swap out the breadcrumbs for gluten-free breadcrumbs or use crushed gluten-free crackers to achieve a similar texture.

Q4: How do I store leftovers?

A4: Store any leftover tuna balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or in the oven for a few minutes to crisp them up again.

Q5: Can I freeze these tuna balls?

A5: Yes, you can freeze them! After shaping the tuna balls, place them on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 1 month. To cook, bake or fry from frozen.

Q6: Can I add cheese to the tuna balls?

A6: Absolutely! Grated parmesan or cheddar cheese would be a great addition to the mixture for an extra layer of flavor.

Q7: What other herbs can I use in the tuna balls?

A7: Feel free to get creative with your herbs! Dill, basil, or chives would work beautifully in this recipe.

Q8: How can I make these spicier?

A8: If you like a bit of heat, add some finely chopped jalapeños or red pepper flakes to the mixture for a spicy kick.

Q9: How do I serve these for a party?

A9: For parties, serve the tuna balls with a variety of dips like spicy mayo, tzatziki, or a tangy mustard sauce. Arrange them on a platter for an easy, grab-and-go snack!

Q10: Can I make these with other types of fish?

A10: Yes! You can substitute the white tuna with other canned fish, such as salmon or mackerel, for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion

These White Tuna Balls are not only a delicious way to enjoy tuna, but they’re also versatile enough to be served in so many different ways. Whether you serve them as an appetizer, add them to a salad, or enjoy them on their own with a tangy dipping sauce, they’re sure to be a hit. Plus, they’re simple to make, so you can whip them up in no time. Enjoy the crispy, savory goodness that these tuna balls bring to your table!

Print