Lemon Herb Tuna Patties
Craving a high-protein, low-effort dinner that feels sophisticated but takes less than 30 minutes.
When you're exhausted and need a satisfying meal without the long prep time, these lemon herb tuna patties are your best friend. They offer a sophisticated flavor profile thanks to fresh herbs and bright citrus, while being incredibly simple to assemble. The secret is in the sear—getting that golden-brown crust makes them feel like they came from a bistro rather than your own kitchen. You can whip these up on a weeknight when you have zero energy but still want something more exciting than a plain sandwich. They are packed with protein and finished with a hit of zest that cuts through the richness perfectly. Just pan-fry, serve with a quick side, and enjoy your well-deserved easy dinner.
Ingredients
- 14 oz canned tuna — drained of all liquid
- 0.5 cup breadcrumbs
- 1 unit egg — lightly beaten
- 2 tbsp fresh parsley — finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp salt
- 2 tbsp olive oil — for frying
Method
- 1 In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, breadcrumbs, chopped parsley, lemon zest, garlic powder, and salt.
- 2 Add the beaten egg and mix thoroughly until all ingredients are evenly distributed into a thick paste.
- 3 Form the mixture into 8 small patties (about 3 inches wide) using your hands or a spoon.
- 4 Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering.
- 5 Fry the patties for about 4-5 minutes per side, or until they develop a deep golden-brown crust.
- 6 Remove from pan and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Variations
- Spicy Kick — Add 1 tsp of sriracha or chopped jalapeño to the mix for an extra heat.
- Gluten-Free Swap — Replace the breadcrumbs with almond flour or gluten-free breadcrumbs.
Notes
If you want an extra kick of flavor, add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the mixture. Serve with a simple wedge of lemon and a side salad.
Equipment that helps
- Large Skillet — Provides even heat distribution for a consistent golden crust on every patty.
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