Baked tuna & spinach patties

Discover a fresh, healthy, and incredibly tasty way to enjoy seafood with these baked tuna & spinach patties. Combining the richness of tuna with the vibrant, nutrient-packed punch of spinach, these patties are easy to prepare and perfect for any meal of the day. Whether you’re craving something light for lunch, a quick dinner, or a wholesome snack, these baked tuna & spinach patties deliver satisfying flavors and wholesome goodness every single time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Simple and Quick: Ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days.
• Nutritious Boost: Packed with omega-3s from tuna and vitamins from fresh spinach.
• Low in Calories: Baked instead of fried for a lighter, guilt-free meal.
• Versatile Flavor: Mild taste suitable for all ages and easily paired with various sides.
• Great for Meal Prep: Keeps well for leftovers, making weeknight dinners even easier.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients for these baked tuna & spinach patties are straightforward yet essential, each adding unique texture and flavor to the dish. From the tender spinach that gives a vibrant color to the protein-rich tuna that offers a satisfying bite, every component plays a key role.

• Canned Tuna: Choose chunk light or albacore packed in water for the best freshness and texture.
• Fresh Spinach: Provides moisture and a lovely green touch, packed with vitamins.
• Eggs: Acts as a natural binder, holding your patties together perfectly.
• Bread Crumbs: Adds texture and helps keep the patties light and crispy on the outside.
• Garlic: Infuses a subtle savory note that blends beautifully with tuna.
• Onion: Diced finely to add a gentle sweetness and crunch to the mix.
• Lemon Zest: Brightens the flavor with a citrusy aroma that complements seafood.
• Salt and Pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance all other ingredients naturally.
• Olive Oil: For brushing the patties before baking, creating a golden finish.

Variations for Baked tuna & spinach patties

One of the best things about this recipe is how easy it is to tweak for your taste or dietary preferences. Feel free to experiment and make it your own with these simple variations.

• Cheesy Twist: Add shredded cheddar or feta cheese into the mixture for an extra creamy texture.
• Spicy Kick: Incorporate finely chopped jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper for heat.
• Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts like almonds instead.
• Herbal Notes: Mix in fresh herbs like dill, parsley, or basil for a fragrant lift.
• Veggie Boost: Add grated zucchini or carrot to increase fiber and color diversity.

How to Make Baked tuna & spinach patties

Step 1: Prepare the spinach and aromatics

Begin by washing fresh spinach and lightly steaming or sautéing it until just wilted. Drain any excess water thoroughly, then finely chop the spinach. In a small pan, gently sauté garlic and onions until translucent and fragrant, then cool slightly.

Step 2: Mix the main ingredients

In a large mixing bowl, combine canned tuna (drained), the chopped spinach, sautéed garlic and onions, eggs, bread crumbs, lemon zest, salt, and pepper. Mix everything well but avoid overworking the mixture to keep the patties tender.

Step 3: Form the patties

Using your hands, shape the mixture into equal-sized patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Place them on a tray lined with parchment paper or a lightly greased baking sheet to prevent sticking.

Step 4: Bake the patties

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Brush each patty lightly with olive oil for a beautiful golden crust, then bake for 15-20 minutes. Flip halfway through to ensure even baking until the patties are firm and lightly browned.

Step 5: Serve and enjoy

Once baked, let the patties rest a few minutes before serving. They’re delicious hot or at room temperature and perfect with various accompaniments.

Pro Tips for Making Baked tuna & spinach patties

• Drain Well: Thoroughly drain tuna and spinach to avoid soggy patties.
• Avoid Overmixing: Combine ingredients gently to keep a light texture.
• Consistent Size: Shape all patties the same size to ensure even cooking.
• Oil Brush: Lightly brush olive oil for crispiness without frying.
• Use Parchment Paper: Prevents sticking and makes cleanup easier.

How to Serve Baked tuna & spinach patties

Garnishes

Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top to brighten the flavors and add a creamy contrast that complements the tuna and spinach beautifully.

Side Dishes

These patties pair wonderfully with a crisp green salad, roasted veggies, or quinoa for a balanced and hearty meal. For something lighter, serve with steamed asparagus or a fresh tomato salsa.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving these patties on whole grain buns as fish burgers or crumble them over mixed greens for a twist on a tuna salad. They also work well as finger foods at parties when paired with dipping sauces like tzatziki or spicy aioli.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover patties in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. They maintain their flavor and texture nicely when properly covered.

Freezing

For longer storage, freeze uncooked patties individually on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. They can be baked directly from frozen but may require a few extra minutes in the oven.

Reheating

Reheat patties in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10 minutes to keep them crisp without drying them out. Avoid microwaving to prevent sogginess.

FAQs

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tuna can be cooked and flaked to use in this recipe, though canned tuna offers convenience and consistent texture.

Are these patties suitable for kids?

Absolutely! The mild flavors and soft texture make baked tuna & spinach patties a kid-friendly option.

Can I make these gluten-free?

Yes, substitute standard bread crumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs or crushed nuts to keep the patties gluten-free.

How many patties does this recipe make?

Typically, this recipe yields about 8 medium-sized patties, perfect for serving 3 to 4 people.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely. Grated carrots, zucchini, or even corn can be mixed in to diversify flavor and increase nutritional value.

Final Thoughts

Baked tuna & spinach patties strike the perfect balance of flavor, nutrition, and ease, making them a real kitchen winner you’ll return to time and again. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a fresh, wholesome meal that feels both comforting and exciting!

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