Barbecue Tuna Spread

Prep: 10 min Cuisine: American

A smoky, tangy tuna spread with barbecue flavor, perfect for casual gatherings and parties, offering a creamy texture with a hint of onion and herbs.

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Ingredients

  • 1 large can spring water tuna or 2 (6 1/8 oz.) cans
  • 3 Tbsp. barbecue sauce
  • 1 (8 oz.) cream cheese, softened
  • 1 Tbsp. lemon juice
  • 1 Tbsp. Worcestershire sauce
  • 2 Tbsp. minced onion
  • 1 Tbsp. chopped parsley

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until well combined.
  2. Serve with crackers or your favorite bread or vegetables.

Tips & Substitutions

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese. If you prefer a spicier kick, add a dash of hot sauce or cayenne pepper. Using smoked tuna can enhance the barbecue flavor. Minced bell peppers can also be a great addition for extra crunch and color. This spread is versatile and can be adjusted to your taste preferences.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this Barbecue Tuna Spread as an appetizer at your next gathering or picnic. It pairs beautifully with fresh vegetables like celery sticks and bell pepper strips, or with crunchy crackers. For a heartier option, spread it on toasted baguette slices or your favorite bread. It also complements salads, like Company'S Coming Salad, for a complete meal.

Storage & Reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To maintain the best texture, avoid freezing the spread as cream cheese does not thaw well. To refresh the spread, simply stir it again before serving and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Barbecue Tuna Spread contains roughly 200 calories, with 6g protein, 24g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and dietary fiber. It also contributes 4g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.

200 kcal 10% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 5.5g 11% DV
Total Fat 9.7g 12% DV
Carbs 24.5g 9% DV
Fiber 3.7g 13% DV
Sugar 4.1g 8% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 332.7mg 14% DV
Potassium 600.5mg 13% DV
Cholesterol 4.7mg 2% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 12mcg 1% DV
Vitamin C 12.6mg 14% DV
Vitamin D 0mcg
Calcium 40.3mg 3% DV
Iron 5.1mg 28% DV
Diet fit Under 400 cal
Contains Milk Fish

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?

Yes, fresh tuna can be used, but it must be cooked and flaked before mixing with the other ingredients. Canned tuna provides convenience and flavor, but fresh tuna offers a different texture and taste. Make sure to season it well to achieve a similar flavor profile.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This Barbecue Tuna Spread is perfect for meal prep. You can make it ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just keep it in an airtight container, and it will be ready for snacks or lunches throughout the week. Pair it with veggies or crackers for a quick bite.

What can I substitute for barbecue sauce?

If you want to change the flavor profile, you can substitute barbecue sauce with a spicy mustard or even a honey glaze for sweetness. Alternatively, a homemade sauce with ketchup, vinegar, and spices can work well. Just adjust the amounts to keep the spread balanced.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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