Tuna gets a well-deserved upgrade with creative, modern twists that go beyond the classic sandwich. Each dish pairs the rich, meaty flavor of tuna with bright herbs, citrus, or global spices that wake up the palate. From seared steaks to easy salads, every idea keeps things light yet deeply satisfying. Fresh, fast, and endlessly versatile, it’s tuna like you’ve never tasted before.

Chickpea Tuna Salad

Chickpea Tuna Salad. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

This chickpea tuna salad is packed with protein and bright flavors from capers, sweet relish, and olive oil. Even without mayo, it turns creamy thanks to the mix of mashed chickpeas, flaky tuna, and chopped eggs. It’s perfect for meal prep, stays fresh for days, and makes a quick, satisfying lunch anytime.
Get the Recipe: Chickpea Tuna Salad

Spicy Tuna Rolls

Image shows Chopsticks holding spicy tuna roll over a plate with more of the roll.
Spicy Tuna Rolls. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

These spicy tuna rolls offer an easy, budget-friendly way to enjoy sushi at home using canned tuna. The mix of heat, creaminess, and texture creates a surprisingly satisfying roll that feels restaurant-worthy. It’s a fun, flavorful recipe perfect for sushi lovers of any skill level.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rolls

Tuna Salad with Fresh Herbs

Healthy Tuna salad without mayo sits on a bed of iceberg lettuce surrounded by two forks, dill, and a green linen.
Tuna Salad with Fresh Herbs. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This fresh and healthy tuna salad skips the mayo and uses Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and olive oil for a lighter flavor. You can keep it dairy-free or add Greek yogurt for extra creaminess. It’s a versatile recipe that works well in wraps, salads, or on its own.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Salad with Fresh Herbs

Tuna Pesto Pasta

A plate of tuna pesto pasta with cherry tomatoes, a copper fork, and a pink linen next to a pan full of tuna pesto pasta.
Tuna Pesto Pasta. Photo credit: Two Cloves Kitchen.

This tuna pesto pasta is a quick and vibrant weeknight meal loaded with cherry tomatoes, spinach, and garlic. The tuna adds protein while the pesto ties everything together with bold, herby flavor. It’s simple, satisfying, and ready in minutes.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Pesto Pasta

Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats with Cream Cheese

Spicy tuna cucumber boats on a plate.
Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats with Cream Cheese. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

These spicy tuna cucumber boats are a crunchy, refreshing, low-carb snack ready in just 10 minutes. Cream cheese, tuna, and seasonings add richness and heat to the cool cucumber base. They’re perfect for quick bites, appetizers, or meal-prep snacks.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Cucumber Boats with Cream Cheese

Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Image shows a closeup view of tuna and tomato pasta in a white patterned bowl.
Tuna and Tomato Pasta. Photo credit: Honest and Truly.

This simple tuna and tomato pasta is easy enough for kids to help make and comes together in about 25 minutes. The combination of tender pasta, tomatoes, and tuna creates a comforting, protein-rich dish. It’s a reliable weeknight favorite with minimal fuss.
Get the Recipe: Tuna and Tomato Pasta

Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl

A bowl of tuna rice with sliced avocados.
Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This 20-minute spicy tuna rice bowl delivers bold flavors and contrasting textures in every bite. With its mix of heat, freshness, and satisfying rice, it’s perfect for busy weeknights. It’s quick, customizable, and keeps dinner exciting.
Get the Recipe: Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl

Cheesy Tuna Air Fryer Flautas

Blue plate with flautas and guacamole and sour cream to the side.
Cheesy Tuna Air Fryer Flautas. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

These cheesy tuna air fryer flautas are crispy on the outside and creamy on the inside. They’re easy to assemble and cook up fast for a fun lunch, dinner, or snack. Every bite is packed with flavor and satisfying crunch.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Tuna Air Fryer Flautas

Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Wheat Berry Salad with Tomato & Tuna in a bowl.
Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

This hearty wheat berry tuna salad is packed with protein, fiber, and bright, fresh flavors. Juicy tomatoes and a light lemon dressing keep it vibrant and balanced. It’s a wholesome meal that’s great for lunch or meal prep.
Get the Recipe: Wheat Berry Salad with Tuna & Tomatoes

Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

A casserole dish filled with pasta and peas.
Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole. Photo credit: Real Balanced.

This tuna noodle casserole comes together in under an hour and makes a comforting family meal. It’s straightforward to prepare, creamy, and perfect for cold evenings. The leftovers reheat beautifully for an easy next-day lunch.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole

Tuna Stuffed Avocados

A glass bowl of tuna salad with pickles and multiple avocados stuffed with the salad around it.
Tuna Stuffed Avocados. Photo credit: Fitasamamabear.

Tuna stuffed avocados are a filling, protein-rich option that works as a snack, appetizer, or light meal. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with seasoned tuna for a fresh, satisfying bite. They’re simple to assemble and naturally low-carb.
Get the Recipe: Tuna Stuffed Avocados

Mediterranean Tuna Orzo Salad

A bowl of Mediterranean-style salad with orzo, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, olives, red peppers, tuna, and a lemon wedge, garnished with basil.
Mediterranean Tuna Orzo Salad. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

This Mediterranean tuna orzo salad is a quick, flavor-packed option perfect for busy weeknights. With tender orzo, fresh veggies, and savory tuna, it makes a balanced and satisfying meal. It’s simple to toss together and delicious served warm or chilled.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Tuna Orzo Salad

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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