Exploring Perfect Side Dishes for Canned Tuna

Canned tuna is a versatile and convenient ingredient to add to your meals. However, to truly enhance its flavors, you need to consider serving it with the right side dishes. In this article, we will explore various options to pair with canned tuna, ensuring a balance of flavors and textures.

Salad Combos To Balance Canned Tuna

Since canned tuna is known for its salty and meaty flavors, it’s essential to serve it with side dishes that can contrast these qualities. Here are a few suggestions:

Citrus and Vinegar Salad

A salad with a considerable amount of citrus or vinegar complements the saltiness of canned tuna. You can mix sliced cucumbers, avocado, and cherry tomatoes with a vinaigrette dressing. For an extra punch of flavor, add a dash of Malabar pepper.

Starchy Side Dishes

Starchy sides like chips or rice can absorb the flavorful oils from the tuna, creating a satisfying and mouthwatering combination. For a healthier option, you can serve steamed rice or roasted sweet potatoes with your tuna.

Smooth and Oily Mezzes

Side dishes that are smooth and rich in oil or fat also help to enhance the flavors of canned tuna. Hummus, baba ghanoush, or goat cheese are excellent choices. These dishes are creamy and spreadable, making them perfect for accompanying tuna in sandwiches or wraps.

Finding Inspiration: Tonno e Fagioli

For those who enjoy a simple yet flavorful combination, Tonno e Fagioli is a classic option. Here’s how to make it:

Canned tuna in olive oil (not water) Canned cannellini beans, drained and rinsed Sliced scallions or red onions Red pepper flakes to taste Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) for garnish

Combine the tuna, beans, and onions in a bowl. Add seasoning with red pepper flakes to your preference. Drizzle the mixture with EVOO for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy this meal on its own or as a side with your tuna sandwich.

Albacore Tuna Salad for a Vinaigrette Flair

If you prefer a salad over a starchy side, albacore tuna on a salad is an excellent choice. Here’s how to make it:

Canned albacore tuna in water (drained and flaked) A mix of lettuces and arugula Tomato wedges Diced small cucumbers Your favorite vinaigrette

Toast the mix of greens with some tomato wedges and small cucumber slices. Add the flaked albacore tuna and toss everything together with your favorite vinaigrette. Finish with a sprinkle of coarsely ground Malabar pepper for an extra kick.

A Fresh Salad or Grain Salad for Tuna

A fresh salad is my personal favorite accompaniment for canned tuna. However, if you prefer something with more texture, consider using grains like cous-cous or quinoa. Here’s a classic recipe that can be adapted:

Salade Ni?oise

Hard-boiled eggs, sliced Olives, pitted and sliced Mixed field greens (arugula, spinach, etc.) Canned tuna in olive oil Roasted or grilled potatoes, diced Grilled red onions, thinly sliced Cornichons, sliced Olives, pitted and sliced (again) Tomatoes, halved or sliced Pitted olives, sliced Mayonnaise or tuna mixture Black olives, roughly chopped Cherry tomatoes, halved Red onion, thinly sliced Capers, drained and finely chopped Hard-boiled egg, quartered White asparagus or blanched green beans

Combine all the ingredients into a large salad bowl. Dress with olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, and salt and pepper to taste. This dish provides a variety of flavors and textures that pair wonderfully with canned tuna.

In conclusion, there are numerous ways to enhance the flavor of canned tuna with the right side dishes. Whether you opt for a salad, a grain-based side, or a simple mezzes, the key is to balance the flavors and textures to create a dish that is both satisfying and delicious.