Friday Special Tuna
A savory baked tuna loaf with crunchy saltine crackers and creamy celery, perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings, served with peas or gelatin salad for added freshness.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Mix the crushed saltine crackers, tuna, cream of celery soup, and beaten eggs until well combined.
- Pour the mixture into a greased loaf pan.
- Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 40 minutes until set and golden.
- Serve with peas or a gelatin salad on the side.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some chopped onions or bell peppers to the tuna mixture. If you're out of cream of celery soup, you can substitute it with cream of mushroom or chicken soup. For a healthier option, try using whole grain crackers instead of saltines. This dish is versatile, pairing nicely with a light salad, such as Tuna Summer Salad.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tuna dish warm with a side of peas or a refreshing gelatin salad for a complete meal. It also pairs well with a light green salad or roasted vegetables. For a bit of crunch, consider serving it alongside Barbecue Snack Mix, which complements the flavors beautifully.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, place individual portions in the microwave for about 1-2 minutes or until heated through. Alternatively, you can reheat it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, covering it with foil to retain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Friday Special Tuna contains roughly 388 calories, with 18g protein, 59g carbohydrates, and 10g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value), and a good source of iron and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 987mg per serving (43% 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
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but be sure to cook it first. Flake the cooked tuna and mix it with the other ingredients. Fresh tuna will give a different texture and flavor but will work well in this recipe.
Is there a way to make this recipe gluten-free?
Absolutely! You can substitute the saltine crackers with gluten-free crackers or crushed cornflakes. Just make sure to check the labels on your soup and other ingredients to ensure they're gluten-free.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked tuna mixture. Allow it to cool completely, then store in an airtight container or freezer bag for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating and serving.
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).