Fish paste

Tuna Paste with Potato and Greens - Quick and Tasty Appetizer

Who doesn't love a quick and tasty appetizer that impresses guests? Tuna paste with potato and greens is a perfect choice for any occasion, from festive holiday meals to informal gatherings with friends. This simple and delicious recipe is easy to prepare and boasts a perfect combination of flavors. Additionally, it is a healthy option packed with nutrients, ideal for those who want to enjoy a savory dish without compromising a balanced diet.

Preparation Time: 15 minutes
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients:

- 1 can of tuna in oil (about 200g)
- 1 medium boiled potato (about 200g)
- 1 boiled egg
- ½ lemon (peeled)
- ½ bunch of fresh greens (such as parsley or dill, using only the leaves)
- ½ pack of butter (about 125g), softened
- Salt and pepper to taste

Recipe History

Tuna paste is a popular appetizer that has gained popularity due to its versatility. With a history spanning decades, this dish has often been associated with festive meals, served as a delicious snack during family gatherings or parties. This recipe has evolved over time, with variations in different corners of the world, but the basic ingredients have remained constant: fish, potatoes, and greens.

Step-by-Step Preparation:

1. Boiling Ingredients:
- Start by boiling the potato with the skin on. This will add a creamy texture to your paste. Place the potato in a pot of cold water, add a pinch of salt, and boil for about 20 minutes or until tender. Check with a fork to see if it’s ready.
- At the same time, boil the egg in another pot for 10 minutes until it turns hard-boiled. Once cooked, place it under cold running water to stop the cooking process.

2. Preparing Ingredients:
- After the potato has cooled, peel it and cut it into cubes. Also, peel the boiled egg.
- Cut the lemon into a few pieces for easier addition to the food processor.

3. Mixing Ingredients:
- In a food processor, add the drained tuna, boiled potato, boiled egg, lemon, fresh greens (only leaves), softened butter, salt, and pepper.
- Blend everything until you achieve a smooth paste. If the paste is too thick, you can add a little olive oil to achieve a creamier consistency.

4. Tasting and Adjusting:
- Taste the paste and adjust the seasonings to your liking. You may want more lemon or a pinch of extra salt.

5. Serving:
- Transfer the paste to a serving bowl. You can garnish with a few fresh green leaves on top for an appealing look. It is delicious served on toasted bread slices, savory crackers, or even with sliced fresh vegetables (carrots, bell peppers, or cucumbers).

Practical Tips:

- Choosing Tuna: Opt for high-quality tuna, preferably in oil, for a tastier and more flavorful paste.
- Greens: You can experiment with different types of greens, such as dill or basil, to provide a distinct flavor.
- Serving: If you want to turn this recipe into a festive appetizer, you can add some green or black olives to the mixture for extra flavor and color.

Calories and Nutritional Benefits:

This tuna paste is not only delicious but also healthy. Each serving contains approximately 210 calories, being rich in protein due to the tuna and egg. The potato provides complex carbohydrates, while the greens are packed with vitamins and minerals. The butter adds a creamy note but can be replaced with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. Can I use tuna in water instead of tuna in oil?
- Absolutely! Tuna in water will make the paste less rich, but it is a lighter option. You can add a little olive oil to compensate.

2. How can I store the paste?
- The paste can be stored in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Make sure to cover it well to prevent drying out.

3. Is this recipe suitable for vegans?
- No, but you can adapt the recipe using tofu or chickpeas instead of tuna and vegan butter for a delicious vegan version.

Possible Variations:

- Feta Paste: Add crumbled feta cheese for a salty and creamy flavor.
- Spicy Paste: Incorporate a few drops of hot sauce to add a bit of heat.
- Sun-Dried Tomato Paste: Add sun-dried tomatoes for an intense flavor and a Mediterranean touch.

Recommended Pairings:

This tuna paste pairs perfectly with a fresh green salad or a glass of dry white wine. You can also serve it alongside a refreshing drink, such as mint lemonade or a fruit cocktail.

In conclusion, this is a versatile recipe, perfect for any occasion, that can be adapted to your tastes. Whether you serve it at a festive meal or a casual dinner, the tuna paste with potato and greens will surely bring smiles to the faces of your loved ones. Enjoy!