Stuffed endives with tuna

The appetizer of endives stuffed with tuna is a wonderful choice for moments when you want to impress your guests or simply indulge in a light and refined snack. This simple yet elegant recipe combines the crunchy texture of endives with the richness of tuna, offering a delicious culinary experience. Additionally, endives are nutrient-rich and low in calories, making them an excellent option for those looking to eat healthily.

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Servings: 2-4

Ingredients:
- 2 large endives
- 1 can of tuna in oil or water (preferably chunks)
- Juice of 1/2 lemon
- Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
- Salt and pepper to taste (optional)

Step by Step:

1. Preparing the ingredients: Start by washing the endives thoroughly under cold running water. Ensure they are free from impurities or hidden insects. Endives are often used in salads and appetizers due to their crunchy texture and slightly bitter taste, which pairs wonderfully with various fillings.

2. Separating the endives: With a sharp knife, cut the base of the endives and carefully separate the leaves. Only keep the larger leaves, which will be used for stuffing. In this recipe, you will need about 9 large leaves, but the number may vary depending on the size of the endives and how much tuna you want to use.

3. Sprinkling with lemon juice: Place the endive leaves on a platter and drizzle them with the juice of 1/4 of a lemon. This step will not only add a fresh taste but also help maintain the white color of the endives, preventing yellowing.

4. Preparing the tuna: Open the can of tuna and drain the liquid well. It is important to remove excess liquid so that the appetizer is not too wet. Place the tuna in a strainer and let it drain for a few minutes.

5. Stuffing the endives: Divide the tuna evenly among the endive leaves. Use a spoon or spatula to distribute the tuna evenly, being careful not to tear the delicate leaves. If desired, you can add a pinch of salt and pepper for extra flavor.

6. Garnishing: Drizzle the appetizer again with a little lemon juice and decorate with fresh parsley leaves. These will add a pop of color and a fresh aroma to the dish.

7. Serving: The appetizer is ready to serve! You can enjoy it immediately or let it chill in the refrigerator for a bit before serving. This recipe pairs wonderfully with a dry white wine or a fresh cocktail, such as a mojito.

Useful tips:
- If you want to experiment, try adding extra ingredients to the tuna filling, such as chopped olives, corn, or even some chopped nuts for added texture.
- This recipe is very versatile. You can replace the tuna with smoked salmon or a vegetarian version using cottage cheese or avocado.
- Make sure the endives are fresh by choosing ones with firm leaves, free from spots or discoloration.

Nutritional information (per serving):
- Calories: approximately 150 kcal
- Protein: 12 g
- Fat: 7 g
- Carbohydrates: 5 g
- Fiber: 2 g

This endive appetizer stuffed with tuna is not only tasty but also a healthy choice, rich in protein and low in calories. It is ideal for parties, festive meals, or even for a light dinner during the week.

Frequently asked questions:
1. Can I use green endives instead of white ones?
Yes, green endives have a milder taste and can provide an interesting contrast of texture and flavor.

2. How can I keep endives fresh?
Store them in the refrigerator in a perforated plastic bag to keep them crunchy.

3. Can the endives be prepared a few hours before serving?
Yes, but it is recommended to fill them with tuna just before serving to avoid sogginess.

In conclusion, the recipe for endives stuffed with tuna is a simple and elegant appetizer, perfect for any occasion. Experiment with different fillings and garnishes to find your favorite combination. Enjoy!