Amidst the hustle and bustle of daily life, I often find myself on a quest for meals that are not just quick but also satisfyingly delicious. Enter my Crispy Lemon Parmesan, Garlic & Herb Tuna Patties—a flavorful revelation that transforms ordinary canned tuna into something extraordinary! These delightful little patties boast a crunchy bite and are both kid-friendly and gluten-free when using gluten-free panko. Not only do they come together in a matter of minutes, but they also make for a fantastic addition to lunch or dinner, revitalizing your meal rotation without the guilt of fast food. Curious how easy it is to whip up this treasure? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Why are these tuna patties a must-try?
Quick, Easy Meal: These patties come together in under 30 minutes, making them a fantastic choice for busy nights.
Kid-Friendly Appeal: Even picky eaters will be asking for seconds, thanks to their crispy exterior and flavorful filling.
Guilt-Free Indulgence: Made with simple, wholesome ingredients, they offer a healthier twist on traditional fried foods.
Versatile Base: Swap out tuna for canned salmon or crab, or add veggies to customize the recipe to your taste!
Perfect Pairing Options: Serve them alongside fresh garden salad or southern coleslaw for a complete meal that’s as delicious as it is satisfying.
Crispy Lemon Parmesan Tuna Patties Ingredients
For the Tuna Patties
• Tuna in water – Ensure it’s well-drained to avoid excess moisture for perfect cakes.
• Panko – Adds crunch; opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs for a gluten-free version.
• Parmesan cheese – Enhances the overall taste with savory richness.
• Chopped red onions – Provides sweetness; green onions can substitute for a milder flavor.
• Minced garlic – Fresh garlic offers the best aroma and flavor.
• Dried parsley – Adds a fresh, herbal note; fresh parsley can be used instead.
• Dried dill – Complements tuna beautifully; fresh dill is a great substitute.
• Onion powder – Enhances flavor without the texture; can be omitted if desired.
• Celery seeds – Gives a slight crunch; feel free to omit if unavailable.
• Crushed red pepper – Provides a hint of heat; adjust based on your spice preference.
• Salt and pepper – Essential for seasoning; tailor to your taste.
• Mayonnaise – Binds the mixture and adds creaminess; consider Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
• Lemon zest and juice – Imparts a zesty brightness that elevates the dish.
• Eggs – Acts as a binder; for a vegan version, replace with flax eggs.
• Vegetable oil – Ideal for frying; try olive oil for added flavor.
Optional Serving Ideas
• Southern coleslaw – A delicious, crunchy side that complements the patties.
• Fresh garden salad – A light and refreshing option that enhances your meal.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crispy Lemon Parmesan, Garlic & Herb Tuna Patties
Step 1: Prepare Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, combine the well-drained tuna, minced garlic, chopped red onion, dried parsley, dill, onion powder, celery seeds, crushed red pepper, salt, pepper, mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, and eggs. Mix everything thoroughly until well incorporated, adding a half cup of the panko to the mixture for texture. You want a firm consistency that can hold its shape when formed into patties.
Step 2: Form Patties
Using about 1/4 cup of the tuna mixture, shape it into a round patty, packing it firmly. Repeat this process until all the mixture is formed into patties. Once shaped, carefully coat both sides of each patty with the remaining panko, ensuring a nice, even layer. This breadcrumb coating will give your Crispy Lemon Parmesan Tuna Patties that desired crunchy exterior.
Step 3: Heat Oil
In a large skillet, heat approximately 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat. You’ll know the oil is ready when it shimmers and a small piece of bread dropped in bubbles immediately. This step is critical for creating a beautifully crisp texture on your tuna patties as they fry. Make sure not to overheat the oil to avoid burning.
Step 4: Cook Patties
Carefully place 4-5 patties in the hot skillet, frying them for about 3-4 minutes on each side. You want to achieve a golden-brown color on each side, which indicates they are perfectly crispy. Use a spatula to gently flip the patties, ensuring they don’t break apart. Work in batches to avoid overcrowding the pan, which can lead to steaming instead of frying.
Step 5: Drain & Serve
Once the patties are golden brown and cooked through, use a slotted spatula to transfer them to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil. Allow the Crispy Lemon Parmesan, Garlic & Herb Tuna Patties to cool slightly for a few minutes before serving. This resting period helps maintain their crispiness, and it’s the perfect time to prepare any sides or dipping sauces you’d like!
Expert Tips for Crispy Tuna Patties
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Proper Draining: Ensure your tuna is well-drained to prevent mushy patties. Excess moisture can cause them to fall apart during cooking.
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Panko Perfection: For the ultimate crunch, don’t skip the outer layer of panko. It’s key to achieving that golden-brown texture.
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Batch Cooking: Avoid overcrowding the skillet. Fry the patties in batches to keep them crisp and prevent steaming, which can lead to sogginess.
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Gentle Flipping: Use two spatulas to carefully flip the patties. This will help prevent them from breaking apart during cooking.
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Stay Fresh: If not serving immediately, allow cooked patties to cool on a wire rack to maintain their crispiness. Enjoy your Crispy Lemon Parmesan, Garlic & Herb Tuna Patties fresh!
What to Serve with Crispy Lemon Parmesan Tuna Patties
Transform your meal into a delightful celebration that tantalizes the palate and warms the heart.
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Southern Coleslaw: This creamy, crunchy side adds a refreshing contrast, balancing the crispy texture of the patties beautifully.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light medley of greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers, this salad offers a vibrant, fresh touch to your meal, enhancing the overall experience.
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Garlic Roasted Potatoes: With their crispy edges and fluffy insides, these flavorful potatoes bring a comforting rustic vibe that pairs seamlessly with the tuna patties.
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Zucchini Noodles: A light and healthy alternative, these spiralized veggies bring a crisp texture and absorb any lingering sauce beautifully.
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Lemon Wedge: A simple squeeze of fresh lemon elevates the flavors of the patties and adds an extra zing that complements the garlic and herbs perfectly.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: A refreshing drink choice that cleanses the palate and works wonderfully with the zesty flavors of the patties. Adding a slice of lemon or lime enhances the experience.
Storage Tips for Crispy Lemon Parmesan Tuna Patties
Fridge: Store uncooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure they are well-covered to maintain freshness.
Freezer: Cooked patties can be frozen and stored for up to 2 months. Allow them to cool completely before flashing freezing on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag.
Reheating: To reheat, place frozen patties in a skillet over medium heat, warming each side for about 3-4 minutes until heated through and crispy again.
Room Temperature: If serving immediately, keep the crispy tuna patties out for no longer than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
Crispy Lemon Parmesan Tuna Patties Variations
Feel free to explore these delightful twists on our crispy tuna patties and make them your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute Parmesan with nutritional yeast for a vegan-friendly flavor boost. You won’t miss the cheese!
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Gluten-Free: For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs instead of panko to keep that fabulous crunch without gluten.
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Spicy: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for a zesty kick that awakens your taste buds. It’s an instant flavor party!
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Vegetable-Loaded: Include finely chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added color and sweetness. It makes for a delightful textural contrast!
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Herb Variations: Try swapping out dried dill for fresh tarragon or cilantro. Each herb brings its own unique flavor profile to the patties.
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Asian Twist: Incorporate a splash of soy sauce and sesame oil into the mixture for a fusion twist that can transport your taste buds to another world.
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Baked Option: Bake the patties at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes instead of frying, for a lighter yet still delicious take on this recipe.
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Zesty Citrus: Experiment with different citrus juices, like lime or orange, to change up the flavor profile while still keeping that bright zest.
Pair your crispy tuna patties with a refreshing garden salad or some tangy southern coleslaw for a meal that’s both satisfying and delicious!
Make Ahead Options
These Crispy Lemon Parmesan, Garlic & Herb Tuna Patties are a fantastic meal prep solution for busy home cooks! You can prepare the tuna mixture up to 24 hours in advance by combining all ingredients (except the panko coating), then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. This not only saves you time but also allows the flavors to meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply form the patties, coat them in panko, and fry them until they’re golden and crispy. For even more convenience, you can freeze uncooked patties for up to 3 months. Just flash freeze them on a baking sheet before transferring to an airtight container. When you’re ready, cook from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the frying time for delicious results with minimal effort!
Crispy Lemon Parmesan, Garlic & Herb Tuna Patties Recipe FAQs
How do I select the best canned tuna?
Absolutely! Look for high-quality tuna packed in water, with minimal added ingredients. The tuna should be firm and flaky, with no dark spots or a strong fishy odor. Brands that emphasize sustainability are also a great choice!
How should I store leftover tuna patties?
Very! Store uncooked patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. For cooked patties, let them cool completely and place them in a freezer-safe bag, where they can be frozen for up to 2 months. Remember to label the bags with dates for a quick reference!
Can I freeze the tuna patties? How?
Of course! To freeze, prepare the patties uncooked. Arrange them on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and flash freeze for about 1 hour until solid. Then transfer the frozen patties into a freezer-safe bag or container, separating layers with parchment paper. They’ll maintain their texture and flavor for up to 3 months!
What should I do if the patties fall apart while cooking?
Don’t worry! If your patties are crumbling, it may be due to excess moisture in the tuna. Ensure the tuna is well-drained. You can also try adding a bit more panko or another egg to help bind the mixture. When shaping, pack them tightly to retain their form during cooking.
Are these tuna patties suitable for kids and people with allergies?
Absolutely! These Crispy Lemon Parmesan, Garlic & Herb Tuna Patties are kid-friendly and can be made gluten-free with gluten-free panko. If there are allergies, be cautious with ingredients like eggs and parmesan. You can substitute eggs with flax eggs or omit the cheese for a dairy-free version.
What are some delicious dipping sauces for the patties?
Very! A tangy tartar sauce or a refreshing yogurt dip pairs perfectly with these patties. For a zesty kick, try mixing mayonnaise with lime juice and a dash of hot sauce! You can also serve with a side of fresh salsa for a vibrant flavor contrast.
Crispy Lemon Parmesan Tuna Patties for Flavorful Family Meals
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large mixing bowl, combine well-drained tuna, minced garlic, chopped red onion, dried parsley, dill, onion powder, celery seeds, crushed red pepper, salt, pepper, mayonnaise, lemon zest, lemon juice, and eggs. Mix thoroughly and add half a cup of panko for texture.
- Using about 1/4 cup of the tuna mixture, shape it into a round patty, packing it firmly. Coat both sides with the remaining panko.
- In a large skillet, heat 1/4 inch of vegetable oil over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- Carefully place 4-5 patties in the skillet, frying for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden-brown.
- Once golden brown, transfer patties to a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess oil and cool slightly before serving.
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