White Tuna Balls are a flavorful, protein-packed dish perfect as an appetizer, snack, or even a light meal. Made with canned white tuna, fresh herbs, and a hint of zesty lemon, these crispy-on-the-outside, tender-on-the-inside balls are incredibly versatile. You can bake, fry, or air-fry them, making them a healthier alternative to traditional meatballs while maintaining all the deliciousness.
Pair them with your favorite dipping sauce, toss them into a salad, or serve them as a fun party appetizer. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
For the Tuna Balls:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) white tuna in water (drained)
- 1 large egg
- ½ cup breadcrumbs (plain or panko)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill (optional, chopped)
- 1 clove garlic (minced)
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying, or cooking spray for baking/air frying)
Optional Dipping Sauce:
- ½ cup Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 teaspoon fresh dill or parsley
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, egg, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, parsley, dill (if using), garlic, lemon zest, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Mix well until the ingredients are fully combined and the mixture holds together.
Step 2: Shape the Balls
- Using your hands, form the mixture into small balls, about 1 to 1 ½ inches in diameter. Place them on a plate or tray.
- If the mixture feels too wet, add a little more breadcrumbs. If it’s too dry, add a splash of water or a bit more lemon juice.
Step 3: Cook the Tuna Balls
- Frying: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Cook the tuna balls for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown and heated through.
- Baking: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the tuna balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Lightly spray with cooking oil and bake for 15-18 minutes, turning halfway through.
- Air Frying: Preheat the air fryer to 375°F (190°C). Place the tuna balls in a single layer in the air fryer basket. Cook for 10-12 minutes, shaking the basket halfway through.
Step 4: Make the Dipping Sauce
- In a small bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, honey, and fresh herbs.
- Serve the sauce on the side for dipping or drizzle over the tuna balls.
Tips
- Tuna Selection: Use high-quality canned white tuna for the best flavor. Tuna in olive oil can also work but should be drained well.
- Customizable Flavors: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes, capers, or a dash of hot sauce for added flavor.
- Crispier Texture: Use panko breadcrumbs instead of regular breadcrumbs for extra crunch.
- Meal Prep Friendly: Make a double batch and freeze uncooked tuna balls for quick meals later.
Storage Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store cooked tuna balls in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Freeze: Freeze uncooked or cooked tuna balls on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. Freeze for up to 3 months.
- Reheat: Warm in a skillet, oven, or air fryer until heated through.
Variations
- Spicy Tuna Balls: Add ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper or finely chopped jalapeños for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Style: Include chopped olives, feta cheese, and a pinch of oregano.
- Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour as a substitute.
- Low-Carb: Swap breadcrumbs for crushed pork rinds or Parmesan cheese.
Nutrition Details
Per Serving (Approximate, based on 12 tuna balls):
- Calories: 75
- Total Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Cholesterol: 25mg
- Sodium: 220mg
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 0g
- Sugars: 1g
- Protein: 7g
FAQ
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, but you’ll need to cook and flake the fresh tuna before mixing it into the recipe.
Can I make these ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the mixture, shape the balls, and refrigerate them for up to 24 hours before cooking.
What sides go well with tuna balls?
They pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or rice pilaf.
Can I use a different fish?
Yes! Salmon, mackerel, or crab can be used as substitutes for tuna in this recipe.
