How To Make Canned Tuna Taste Good: Beginner’s Guide

Last Updated on September 15, 2024 by Shari Mason

Loving seafood, I often **reach for canned tuna** since it’s a cheap and easy protein. Yet, its **taste and texture sometimes** feel very disappointing.

I’ll share my experience and tips on making canned tuna taste good so you can enjoy this pantry staple in delicious and satisfying ways.

5 Best Ways To Make Canned Tuna Better

1. Mix It With Flavorful Ingredients

Mixing canned tuna with flavorful ingredients is one of the best ways to make it taste better.

Canned tuna can sometimes taste bland, but adding ingredients like mayonnaise [1], mustard, diced onions, and celery can enhance its flavor and texture. 

“Is this chicken, what I have, or is this fish? I know it’s tuna, but it says ‘Chicken of the Sea.'”

Jessica Simpson, Singer

Fresh herbs like parsley or dill can also provide a burst of flavor. Swap out the traditional mayonnaise-based dressing with a vinaigrette or yogurt-based dressing to take it up a notch.

Read:

• Ways To Make Cottage Cheese Better
• Why Is Cranberry Sauce Canned Upside Down?

2. Use It In Non-Traditional Ways

Canned tuna is a versatile and convenient ingredient that can be used in many non-traditional ways to add flavor and nutrition to your meals.

One of the best ways to improve canned tuna is by incorporating it into unexpected dishes, such as pasta salads, wraps, tacos, or pizzas. 

You can also mix it with avocado, hummus, or cream cheese to create delicious spreads for sandwiches or crackers. 

Additionally, adding herbs, spices, or a splash of lemon juice can enhance the flavor of canned tuna and make it more appealing. 

3. Add Crunch With Vegetables & Nuts

 One of the best ways to make canned tuna better is by adding crunch with vegetables and nuts. Mixing in diced celery, shredded carrots, or sliced cucumbers adds texture and freshness to your tuna salad. 

Similarly, adding chopped nuts like almonds, pecans, or walnuts can provide a satisfying crunch and boost of healthy fats.

For a sweet and savory twist, you can also experiment with flavor combinations, such as adding diced apples, raisins, or cranberries. 

With the addition of vegetables and nuts, canned tuna [2] can be transformed into a nutritious and satisfying meal that is easy to prepare and delicious.

4. Experiment With Spices & Seasonings

One of the best ways to improve canned tuna is by experimenting with different flavors and combinations. 

For example, mixing some smoked paprika, cumin, and garlic can add a smoky and savory taste to your tuna salad. 

Alternatively, adding curry powder, turmeric, and ginger can give your tuna a bold and exotic flavor. You can also play with herbs like dill, parsley, or basil to add freshness and aroma. 

5. Use Low-Calorie Dressings

Canned tuna is a healthy and convenient source of protein, but it can sometimes be bland on its own. You can make canned tuna better by using low-calorie dressings to add flavor without adding extra calories. 

Greek yogurt mixed with lemon juice and Dijon mustard is a delicious and creamy dressing that pairs well with tuna. Mix olive oil, vinegar, and honey for a tangy, sweet vinaigrette. 

“From salads to sandwiches, pastas to patties, canned tuna weaves its magic, infusing meals with a touch of briny elegance, reminding us that even from a can, great flavors can emerge.”

Eat Pallet Restaurant & Food Advice

Another option is to use hummus or avocado as a base for your dressing, which can add healthy fats and a creamy texture. 

FAQs

In Conclusion

Canned tuna is a convenient and healthy ingredient that can be transformed into a delicious meal with creativity and experimentation. 

Many ways to make canned tuna taste suitable include incorporating non-traditional ingredients such as vegetables and nuts, experimenting with spices and seasonings, using low-calorie dressings, and exploring different cooking methods. 

With these tips and techniques, you can elevate the flavor and texture of canned tuna and enjoy it as a satisfying and nutritious meal.

References:

1. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/recipes/basic-mayonnaise
2. https://www.bbcgoodfood.com/howto/guide/canned-tuna-healthy