Portuguese Tuna Custard Pie
A savory Portuguese-inspired tuna custard pie featuring flaky pastry, creamy filling, and a touch of Swiss cheese and chives, perfect for brunch or light dinner.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Bake the unbaked pastry shell in a preheated 425°F oven for about 5 minutes, until set but not brown.
- In a bowl, beat together the eggs, light cream or half and half, salt, and hot pepper sauce.
- Stir in the drained tuna, shredded Swiss cheese, and chopped chives.
- Pour the mixture into the partially baked pie shell.
- Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for 40 minutes or until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean.
- Remove from oven and let stand for 10 minutes before cutting into wedges.
- Serve with tomato sauce, if desired.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier filling, consider using a mixture of light cream and half and half. If Swiss cheese isn't available, Gruyère or cheddar can work well as substitutes. Adding some sautéed onions or bell peppers can enhance the flavor profile. Make sure to drain the tuna thoroughly to prevent excess moisture in the pie.
Serving Suggestions
This Portuguese Tuna Custard Pie pairs beautifully with a fresh salad or a side of Sour Cream Or Yogurt Dressing for added creaminess. For a more substantial meal, serve it with crusty bread or roasted vegetables. A drizzle of tomato sauce on top can also enhance its flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in a microwave-safe dish and cover with a damp paper towel to maintain moisture. Heat in short intervals until warmed through, or reheat in a 350°F oven for about 10-15 minutes.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Portuguese Tuna Custard Pie contains roughly 281 calories, with 12g protein, 57g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (245% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (133% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (61% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1270mg per serving (55% 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 it will require cooking beforehand. Poach or grill the tuna until cooked through, then flake it into the mixture. This will add a fresher flavor, but remember to adjust the seasoning accordingly.
Can this pie be made ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the pie a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking to ensure even cooking.
What can I serve with this pie?
This pie is delicious on its own, but it can also be complemented with a light salad or roasted vegetables. For a festive touch, serve it alongside Finnish Cardamon Bread Tree for a delightful contrast of flavors.
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).