Get ready to reel in the flavors with these 20 quick and delicious canned tuna and rice recipes! Whether you’re a busy home cook or a college student looking for a satisfying meal, this versatile combination of protein and carbs is sure to please. And the best part? These recipes are incredibly easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste preferences.
From spicy bowls to creamy casseroles, savory stir-fries to flavorful salads, we’ve got you covered with these mouthwatering tuna and rice creations. So why settle for boring old tuna salad when you can have a flavorful fiesta in every bite? Dive into this collection of recipes and discover the countless ways you can elevate your meal game with canned tuna and rice.
Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl with Sriracha Mayo
This recipe combines the flavors of spicy tuna sashimi, creamy sriracha mayonnaise, and savory Japanese rice for a bold and delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
2. In a small bowl, mix together sriracha sauce, mayonnaise, soy sauce, and sesame oil.
3. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in the tuna flakes.
4. Add the sriracha mayo mixture on top of the tuna-rice mixture.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Garlic Butter Tuna and Rice Skillet
A flavorful and easy one-pot meal that combines the richness of tuna with the comfort of garlic butter and fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (6 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, tuna, paprika, salt, and pepper.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are well combined.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tuna Poke Bowl with Sushi Rice
Experience the flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing Tuna Poke Bowl recipe, featuring sushi rice and a variety of textures and tastes. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of sushi rice
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 tablespoon of grated ginger
– 1 tablespoon of chopped green onions
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: pickled ginger, wasabi, and sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, mix tuna with soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger.
3. Combine cooked sushi rice with the tuna mixture.
4. Garnish with chopped green onions, pickled ginger (if using), wasabi (if using), and sesame seeds (if using).
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cheesy Tuna Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of tuna with the creaminess of cheese and the simplicity of rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, tuna, peas and carrots, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. In a separate bowl, combine milk and shredded cheese. Stir until the cheese is melted and smooth.
4. Add the butter to the cheese mixture and stir until combined.
5. Pour the tuna-rice mixture into a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with the cheesy sauce.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and the cheese is bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Fried Rice with Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines cooked tuna with a variety of colorful vegetables for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: soy sauce, sesame oil, or chopped scallions for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and frozen vegetables; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, until thawed.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
5. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetable mixture for about 5 minutes, until heated through.
6. Mix in the flaked tuna and season with salt, pepper, and optional flavorings (if using).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna and Rice Salad
Mediterranean Tuna and Rice Salad Recipe
A refreshing twist on traditional tuna salad, this Mediterranean-inspired dish combines the richness of tuna with the creaminess of Greek yogurt, all atop a bed of fluffy rice and crunchy veggies.
Ingredients:
• 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
• 1/4 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
• 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, flaked tuna, Greek yogurt, red onion, cucumber, and feta cheese.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
4. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: Prep time – 10 minutes, Cook time – 0 minutes (no cooking required)
Tuna Kimchi Rice Stir-Fry
A flavorful fusion of Korean kimchi and Japanese tuna, this recipe combines the spicy kick of fermented vegetables with the richness of canned tuna.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup kimchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Stir in the kimchi and cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly caramelized.
4. Add the cooked rice to the wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is well coated with the kimchi flavor.
5. Add the tuna flakes and stir-fry for an additional minute.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Creamy Tuna and Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the comfort of tuna and rice with the sweetness of bell peppers. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh parsley or paprika for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a bowl, mix tuna, rice, cream cheese, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until well combined.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the tuna mixture, filling to the top.
5. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
7. Remove foil and bake an additional 10 minutes to lightly brown the tops.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Tuna Rice Croquettes with Spicy Aioli
Transform humble tuna into a crispy, flavorful snack with these addictive Tuna Rice Croquettes. Paired with a creamy and spicy aioli dipping sauce, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
– For the Spicy Aioli:
+ 1/2 cup mayonnaise
+ 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce
+ 1 tablespoon lemon juice
+ Garlic powder to taste
Instructions:
1. Mix tuna, rice, panko breadcrumbs, egg, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a bowl.
2. Shape into small patties (about 1 inch in diameter).
3. Fry patties in hot vegetable oil until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per side).
4. Drain on paper towels.
5. For the Spicy Aioli: Mix mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lemon juice, and garlic powder in a bowl.
6. Serve tuna croquettes with spicy aioli dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-15 minutes for frying and preparation.
Lemon Herb Tuna Rice Pilaf
A bright and citrusy twist on a classic pilaf, this recipe combines the freshness of lemon with the savory flavor of tuna and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (5 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh lemon wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the flaked tuna, cooked rice, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is heated through.
6. Serve hot, garnished with fresh lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Rice Sushi Rolls
Create delicious and refreshing tuna-filled sushi rolls with this simple recipe. Perfect as a snack or light meal, these bite-sized treats are easy to make and require minimal ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked Japanese rice (preferably short-grain rice)
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions or using a rice cooker.
2. Mix in soy sauce, sesame oil, and salt to season the rice.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board or other surface.
4. Spread about 1/2 cup of cooked rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place the flaked tuna in the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands (apply gentle pressure).
7. Slice into bite-sized pieces and serve.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (includes preparation time)
Tuna Rice Soup with Miso Broth
A comforting and nutritious soup that combines the richness of tuna with the creaminess of miso broth, all wrapped up in a hearty serving of Japanese-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 tablespoons white miso paste
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, combine the tuna, cooked rice, water, miso paste, soy sauce, and ginger.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Tuna Rice Patties with Avocado Salsa
Transform a classic tuna salad into crispy patties and pair them with a creamy avocado salsa for a delicious and healthy meal. This recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
For the Tuna Rice Patties:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocado Salsa:
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together tuna, rice, panko breadcrumbs, egg, and olive oil.
3. Form into patties and cook for 3-4 minutes per side, until golden brown.
4. Meanwhile, combine avocado, lime juice, red onion, and garlic in a separate bowl.
5. Serve the tuna patties with the avocado salsa and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Rice Jambalaya with Cajun Spice
This spicy twist on traditional jambalaya combines the flavors of the Gulf Coast with the protein-packed punch of tuna. A one-pot wonder that’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the Cajun seasoning and paprika; cook for 30 seconds.
5. Add the mixed bell peppers and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
6. Add the cooked rice, tuna, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir well.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the flavors are combined.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Tuna Rice Stuffed Tomatoes
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed tomatoes, this recipe combines the savory flavors of tuna and rice with the sweetness of fresh tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 4 large tomatoes, hollowed out
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, cooked rice, and chopped parsley.
3. Stuff each tomato with the tuna-rice mixture, filling to the top.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the tomatoes and season with salt and pepper.
5. If using lemon juice, drizzle it over the tomatoes.
6. Place the stuffed tomatoes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the tomatoes are tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Rice Bake with Breadcrumbs
A simple and satisfying casserole that combines canned tuna, cooked rice, and crunchy breadcrumbs, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine tuna, cooked rice, and chopped green onions.
3. In a separate bowl, mix breadcrumbs and grated cheddar cheese.
4. Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with olive oil.
5. Add the tuna-rice mixture to the prepared baking dish.
6. Top with the breadcrumb-cheese mixture.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tuna Rice Lettuce Wraps
These lettuce wraps are a great way to enjoy the flavors of tuna and rice in a light and refreshing package. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a delicious and healthy meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups mixed greens (lettuce, spinach, arugula)
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, cooked rice, and soy sauce.
2. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions and place each portion onto a bed of mixed greens.
3. Top with chopped green onions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes ( preparation only)
Tips:
– Use fresh and high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
– Adjust the amount of soy sauce to your taste.
– Consider adding other toppings like diced veggies or avocado for extra flavor and nutrition.
Tuna Rice Risotto with Parmesan
A creamy and protein-packed twist on traditional risotto, this recipe combines the richness of tuna with the comfort of Arborio rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in oil, drained and flaked
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the Arborio rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water, tuna, and white wine (if using). Bring to a simmer.
6. Reduce heat to low and cook, covered, for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is creamy and cooked.
7. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tuna Rice Burrito Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional burritos, this recipe combines the savory taste of tuna with fluffy rice and crunchy veggies. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the peas and carrots, bell pepper, and tuna. Cook for 3-4 minutes or until the veggies are tender.
3. Combine the cooked rice with the tuna mixture.
4. Serve in a bowl and add your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna Rice Omelette with Green Onions
This Tuna Rice Omelette is a protein-packed breakfast that combines the flavors of tuna, green onions, and rice in a crispy omelette. Perfect for busy mornings, this recipe can be prepared in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 2 eggs
– 1/4 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together the eggs and a pinch of salt.
2. Heat a non-stick pan over medium heat. Spray with cooking spray or add a small amount of oil.
3. Pour in the egg mixture and cook until the edges start to set (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Sprinkle the cooked rice, tuna, and green onions onto half of the omelette.
5. Fold the other half over the filling and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, until the eggs are almost set.
6. Slide the omelette out of the pan and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Discover 20 mouth-watering recipes that combine canned tuna and rice in creative ways. From spicy stir-fries to comforting casseroles, these flavorful dishes are quick and easy to prepare. Try a Spicy Tuna Rice Bowl with Sriracha Mayo, Garlic Butter Tuna and Rice Skillet, or Tuna Poke Bowl with Sushi Rice. Or, get adventurous with Mediterranean Tuna and Rice Salad or Tuna Kimchi Rice Stir-Fry. Whatever your taste, these tuna and rice recipes are sure to please!