Introduction
Tuna burgers are a delightful and healthy option for a meal that’s both satisfying and packed with flavor. This recipe incorporates charred vegetables, creamy mashed potatoes, and tender tuna, all nestled in a soft bap. With the addition of fresh tomatoes and olives, you get a burst of freshness in every bite. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this dish is easy to prepare and pleasing to the palate.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 red onion
160g frozen green beans
Red wine vinegar
Extra virgin olive oil
1 medium free-range egg
1 x 300g tin of peeled new potatoes
1 x 145g tin of tuna in spring water, from sustainable sources
3 large white baps
Olive oil
2 ripe tomatoes
4 black kalamata olives, stone in
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
4 servings
Enjoy creating this flavorful tuna burger recipe with its vibrant blend of ingredients. It’s not just a meal; it’s a celebration of taste and nutrition!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Preparing the Vegetables
Place a large non-stick frying pan on medium heat. Peel and quarter the red onion, add it to the pan with the frozen green beans, and cook for 4 minutes, or until softened and charred, turning occasionally.
Step 2: Mixing the Dressing
In a large bowl, whisk together 1 teaspoon of red wine vinegar, 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil, and a pinch of black pepper. Add the hot charred vegetables and toss well.
Step 3: Cooking the Egg
Lower the egg into a small saucepan of vigorously simmering water and boil for 5 minutes (for soft-boiled). Refresh under cold water until cool enough to handle, then peel.
Step 4: Preparing the Tuna Mixture
Drain the potatoes and mash them with a fork in a large bowl. Drain and add the tuna. Blitz 1 bap in a food processor to fine crumbs and add to the bowl. Finely chop ¼ of the charred dressed vegetables and add to the bowl with a pinch of black pepper. Mix together with clean hands until combined.
Step 5: Forming the Patties
Divide the mixture into 4 and shape into patties.
Step 6: Cooking the Patties
Return the frying pan to medium heat with 1 teaspoon of olive oil and fry the patties for 4 minutes on each side, or until golden and crisp. Halve and lightly toast the remaining baps alongside.
Step 7: Assembling the Burgers
Drizzle a little of the vegetable dressing onto the halved baps. Thinly slice the tomatoes and divide them between the baps, placing 2 tuna burgers on top of each.
Step 8: Finishing the Salad
Squash and destone the olives, add them to the bowl of vegetables, and toss. Plate up alongside the burgers. Halve the egg and serve on top of the salads.
Notes
Note 1
Ensure that the frozen green beans are thoroughly cooked until they become softened and slightly charred for the best flavor.
Note 2
When cooking the egg, you can adjust the boiling time for a firmer yolk if desired.
Note 3
Feel free to customize the burger mixture by adding your favorite herbs or spices for additional flavor.
Note 4
If you do not have a food processor, you can manually crush the bap using a ziplock bag and a rolling pin.
Note 5
This recipe is flexible and can be adjusted according to available ingredients or dietary preferences.
Cook techniques
Charred Vegetables
Place the red onion and frozen green beans in a non-stick frying pan over medium heat, cooking until softened and charred, turning occasionally for even cooking.
Whisking a Dressing
In a bowl, combine red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, and black pepper. Whisk until well-mixed, then incorporate hot vegetables by tossing gently.
Boiling an Egg
Lower the egg into simmering water for 5 minutes for a soft-boiled texture. After boiling, transfer to cold water to cool before peeling.
Mashing Potatoes
Drain the peeled new potatoes and mash them with a fork until smooth. Combine mashed potatoes with tuna and vegetable remnants for added flavor.
Shape Patties
Divide the potato-tuna mixture into four equal portions and shape them into patties for frying.
Frying Patties
Heat olive oil in a frying pan and fry the patties for 4 minutes on each side until they are golden brown and crispy.
Toasting Baps
Slice the remaining baps in half and toast lightly to enhance texture and flavor.
Preparing Salad
Combine smashed kalamata olives with the charred vegetables for an added burst of flavor, then serve alongside the burgers.
Serving the Egg
After halving the boiled egg, place it atop the salad for a rich finish.
FAQ
Can I substitute the tuna with another protein?
Yes, you can use canned chicken, chickpeas, or a plant-based alternative if desired.
What type of potatoes can be used instead of peeled new potatoes?
You can use any waxy potato variety such as baby potatoes or Yukon Gold for similar texture.
How do I ensure my patties hold together?
Make sure to thoroughly mix the ingredients and gently handle them when forming patties to maintain their shape.
Can I make this dish in advance?
Yes, you can prepare the patties and dressing ahead of time, but it’s best to cook and assemble just before serving.
Are there any alternatives to red wine vinegar?
Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can be good substitutes for red wine vinegar in this recipe.
Conclusion
The combination of charred vegetables, soft-boiled eggs, and tuna patties creates a satisfying and nutritious meal that balances flavor and texture. The use of fresh ingredients like tomatoes and olives enhances the dish, providing a Mediterranean twist. Enjoying these tuna burgers in toasted baps adds a delightful crunch, making it a perfect option for lunch or dinner.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Stir-Fry
Combine frozen green beans with bell peppers, broccoli, and a splash of red wine vinegar for a quick stir-fry. Serve over rice or noodles for a complete meal.
Tuna Salad with Potatoes
Mash cooked new potatoes and mix with tuna, diced onions, and a dressing of olive oil and vinegar for a hearty salad.
Stuffed Baps with Vegetables
Fill halved baps with sautéed red onions, green beans, and sliced tomatoes, adding feta cheese for extra flavor.
Oven-Roasted Tuna Patties
Bake the tuna patties in the oven instead of frying for a healthier version, served with a side of roasted vegetables.
Simple Tomato and Olive Salad
Mix sliced ripe tomatoes with kalamata olives and a drizzle of olive oil for a refreshing side dish that pairs well with any main course.
Egg and Veggie Breakfast Sandwich
Use the remaining baps to create a breakfast sandwich with a soft-boiled egg, sautéed red onions, and green beans for a nutritious start to the day.
