Zesty Tuna Quinoa Patties

Name: Zesty Tuna Quinoa Patties
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 8 min
Total time: 23 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained; 1 cup cooked quinoa; 1 large egg; 1/4 cup breadcrumbs; 1/4 cup chopped parsley; 1/4 cup finely chopped onion; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil

🕒 Prep: 15 min

🔥 Cook: 8 min

🍽 Serves: 4

★★★★★

1 Review

If you’re on the hunt for a quick, nutritious meal that's packed with protein and flavor, these Zesty Tuna Quinoa Patties are just the ticket. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a light lunch, they bring together the satisfying texture of quinoa and the bright zing of lemon in every bite.

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Ingredients for Zesty Tuna Quinoa Patties

Tuna: The star protein, giving these patties a savory, satisfying flavor. Opt for tuna in water to keep things light.

Quinoa: Adds a delightful texture and nutty flavor, while boosting the protein content. It's also a great binder.

Egg: Acts as a binder to help hold the patties together.

Breadcrumbs: Provides structure and a bit of crunch. You can use regular, whole wheat, or even gluten-free breadcrumbs.

Parsley: Offers a fresh, herby note that complements the lemon and tuna beautifully.

Onion and Garlic: Bring depth and aromatic flavor, making each bite more savory and irresistible.

Lemon Juice and Zest: These add a vibrant, zesty punch that wakes up your taste buds.

Olive Oil: Used for frying, giving the patties a lovely golden-brown crust.

Tips & Tricks

Use a non-stick skillet to prevent the patties from sticking.
If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs.
Chill the mixture for 15 minutes before shaping for easier handling.

Serving Suggestions

These patties are fantastic served with a side salad of mixed greens and a light vinaigrette. For a heartier meal, you could pair them with roasted vegetables or a grain salad. They also work well in a sandwich with your favorite toppings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make these patties ahead of time?: Yes, you can prepare the mixture and shape the patties a day in advance. Store them in the fridge until you're ready to cook.
What if I don't have quinoa?: You can substitute with cooked rice or couscous, although the texture will be slightly different.

Zesty Tuna Quinoa Patties Recipe Walkthrough

Start by draining your can of tuna thoroughly to avoid soggy patties. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tuna with 1 cup of cooked quinoa. This should be cooled to room temperature to prevent the egg from cooking prematurely.

Add in a large egg, 1/4 cup of breadcrumbs, and a 1/4 cup of chopped parsley. Ensure your parsley is finely chopped for even flavor distribution.

Next, toss in the onion and minced garlic. Mix in 1 tablespoon of lemon juice and the zest of a lemon. These are essential for that bright, fresh flavor. Season with 1/2 teaspoon of salt and 1/4 teaspoon of black pepper.

Using your hands, shape the mixture into 8 small patties. Press them firmly to ensure they hold their shape during cooking.

Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the patties in the skillet, cooking them for about 4 minutes on each side. You’re looking for a golden-brown crust.

Transfer the cooked patties to a plate lined with paper towels to soak up any excess oil. Let them cool slightly before serving.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

Quick and easy to prepare — ready in under 30 minutes.
A great way to use up leftover quinoa.
Packed with protein from both tuna and quinoa.
Bright, fresh flavors from lemon zest and parsley.
Perfectly crispy on the outside, tender inside.

Ingredients

1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained

1 cup cooked quinoa

1 large egg

1/4 cup breadcrumbs

1/4 cup chopped parsley

1/4 cup finely chopped onion

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 tbsp lemon juice

1 tsp lemon zest

1/2 tsp salt

1/4 tsp black pepper

2 tbsp olive oil

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large bowl, combine drained tuna, cooked quinoa, egg, breadcrumbs, parsley, onion, garlic, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.

2. Shape the mixture into 8 small patties using your hands, pressing them firmly to ensure they hold together.

3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.

4. Place patties in the skillet and cook for about 4 minutes on each side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.

5. Remove from skillet and transfer to a paper towel-lined plate to cool slightly before serving.