Creamy Tuna Mold
Creamy Tuna Mold is a chilled, savory appetizer featuring flaked tuna combined with mayonnaise, sour cream, and a hint of lemon. Topped with fresh cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes, it offers a refreshing, flavorful bite perfect for gatherings or light lunches. Its smooth texture and vibrant presentation make it a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a small pan, soften gelatin in cold water; stir over low heat until dissolved.
- In a small bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and chopped onion; beat until smooth.
- Blend in dissolved gelatin, sour cream, and capers (if using).
- Spoon mixture into a 3 1/2-cup mold and chill until firm.
- Unmold onto a platter lined with lettuce.
- Garnish with cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley, which pair well with seafood recipes. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for the sour cream. For a twist, try using smoked tuna instead of regular tuna for a deeper flavor. Ensure the gelatin is completely dissolved to achieve a smooth texture in the mold.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the Creamy Tuna Mold on a bed of crisp lettuce for a refreshing touch. It pairs beautifully with cucumber slices and cherry tomatoes for a colorful presentation. Consider serving alongside crackers or toasted baguette slices for added crunch. This dish also complements well with a light salad like Anita'S Seacoast Salad.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover Creamy Tuna Mold in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, gently warm it in a microwave on low power, but note that this dish is best enjoyed cold. Avoid refreezing once thawed, as it may affect texture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Creamy Tuna Mold contains roughly 119 calories, with 7g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 7g fat. It is a good source of protein (14% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 508mg per serving (22% of the Daily Value).
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
Is the gelatin necessary for the recipe?
Yes, the gelatin is crucial for setting the tuna mold and giving it a stable shape. If you're looking for a vegetarian option, you can substitute gelatin with agar-agar, following the equivalent instructions on the package to achieve similar results.
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).