Tuna paste

Delicious tuna cheese spread - a perfect appetizer for the holidays

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Chilling time: 30-40 minutes
Total time: 55-60 minutes
Servings: 6-8

Introduction

Tuna cheese spread is an appetizer that brings joy to our festive tables, loved by the whole family. This simple and quick recipe transforms basic ingredients into a delicacy that combines various flavors and textures. It is perfect to be served on slices of vegetables, on crackers, or on toasted bread, and the combination of tuna, cheeses, and herbs makes it an irresistible appetizer. Let's discover together how to prepare it!

Necessary ingredients

- 4 cans of tuna fillets in olive oil
- 1 tub of creamy cheese with salmon (from Delaco)
- 1 tub of creamy cheese with herbs (from Delaco)
- 1 medium red onion
- 6 pickles
- 1 tablespoon classic mustard
- 1 tablespoon caviar salad
- Juice of one lemon
- Salt, to taste
- Lemon pepper, to taste
- Sweet paprika, for decoration

Additional ingredients (optional)

- Fresh dill, finely chopped, for extra flavor

Recipe history

Over time, tuna spread has become a popular dish in many cultures, often associated with festive meals and special occasions. It has evolved from simple recipes based on fish preservation into sophisticated dishes full of flavor. The addition of cheeses and spices has transformed it into a versatile appetizer that pairs well with various types of dishes and drinks.

Step-by-step preparation

1. Draining the tuna: Open the tuna cans and let the fillet drain in a sieve. It is important that the tuna is well-drained so that it does not dilute the texture of the spread. You can gently press it with a spatula to speed up the process.

2. Preparing the creamy base: In a large bowl, add the drained tuna fillet, creamy cheese with salmon, and creamy cheese with herbs. These cheeses not only add creaminess but also a rich flavor. Mix with a spatula or a hand mixer until you achieve a smooth composition.

3. Adding the vegetables: Cut the red onion into fine cubes and add it to the bowl. This will provide a note of freshness and a pleasant contrast with the other ingredients. Cut the pickles into small cubes, keeping a few whole slices for decoration. Add them to the bowl, being careful not to drain them too much, so the spread remains slightly moist and creamy.

4. Seasoning: Add the classic mustard, caviar salad, lemon juice, salt, lemon pepper, and sweet paprika. Mix everything well, ensuring that the ingredients are evenly distributed.

5. Chilling the spread: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and let the spread chill in the refrigerator for 30-40 minutes. This chilling time is essential for the flavors to blend and intensify.

6. Serving: After the spread has chilled, take it out of the refrigerator and mix again. If desired, you can now add freshly chopped dill for extra flavor. Serve the spread on slices of colorful bell peppers, which not only add a splash of color but also a pleasant taste.

Serving suggestions

Tuna spread can be served alongside other appetizers, such as olive muffins, vegetable meatballs, or a cheese platter. It also pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a refreshing lemonade.

Useful tips

- Types of tuna: You can experiment with different types of tuna, such as white tuna or red tuna, depending on your preferences.
- Cheeses: If you do not have creamy cheese with salmon, you can use only the cheese with herbs or even a fine cottage cheese.
- Vegetarian option: For a vegetarian version, you can replace the tuna with a chickpea or bean spread, adding extra spices to enhance the flavor.

Nutritional benefits

This tuna spread is rich in protein due to the fish and cheese content. Additionally, tuna is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. The pickles and red onion add fiber and vitamins, contributing to a balanced diet.

Frequently asked questions

- Can I use tuna in water instead of oil? Yes, but the spread will have a less rich and flavorful texture.

- Can the tuna spread be frozen? It is not recommended to freeze the tuna spread, as the texture will change upon thawing.

- What drinks pair well with this appetizer? A dry white wine or a gin and tonic cocktail is the ideal choice to complement the flavor of the tuna spread.

In conclusion, this tuna cheese spread recipe is quick, easy to prepare, and full of flavor, perfect for any occasion. Don't hesitate to play with the ingredients and add your own personal touches. Try it at your next party or simply for a weekend dinner! Enjoy!