Tuna Balls(16 Calorie Appetizer)
Tuna Balls are a light and flavorful appetizer perfect for entertaining or snacking. Combining canned tuna with cheddar cheese and fresh herbs, these bite-sized treats are simple to prepare and appealing to seafood lovers and cheese enthusiasts alike, offering a savory, herbaceous flavor with a hint of lemon.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend the drained and flaked tuna with the cheddar cheese until well combined.
- Add chopped celery, lemon juice, Worcestershire sauce, and salt to the mixture.
- Mix everything thoroughly until evenly incorporated.
- Form the mixture into small balls, using about 2 teaspoons for each.
- Roll each ball in chopped parsley to coat evenly.
- Chill the parsley-coated tuna balls well before serving.
- Serve with cocktail picks.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in some finely chopped green onions or a splash of hot sauce for a kick. If you're out of parsley, dill or cilantro can make great substitutes. Ensure the tuna is well-drained to prevent excess moisture, which can make forming the balls challenging. Experiment with different cheeses, such as pepper jack, to create a unique twist on this classic appetizer.
Serving Suggestions
These tuna balls make a delightful appetizer for any gathering, especially when paired with a tangy dipping sauce or served alongside a platter of fresh vegetables. They are perfect for game day or summer picnics. For an elegant touch, serve with cocktail picks and a side of cream cheese dip, which pairs beautifully with the flavors of this dish.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tuna balls in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. They can also be frozen for up to a month. To reheat, place them in a preheated oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes until warmed through, or enjoy them cold directly from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Balls(16 Calorie Appetizer) contains roughly 6 calories, with 0g protein, 0g carbohydrates, and 0g fat.
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?
Absolutely! You can use cooked and flaked fresh tuna in this recipe. Just ensure it's seasoned well since canned tuna often has added salt. Cooked fresh tuna will provide a richer flavor and firmer texture, making for a delicious variation on the classic tuna balls.
How can I make this recipe low-carb?
To make these tuna balls low-carb, simply omit the cheddar cheese or substitute it with a low-carb cheese option. You can also skip the lemon juice if you're looking to reduce carbs further. The other ingredients, like celery and parsley, are naturally low in carbohydrates, so you can enjoy these tasty bites without worry.
What can I serve these tuna balls with?
Tuna balls are versatile and can be served with a variety of dips such as ranch or a spicy sriracha mayo. Pair them with fresh vegetable sticks for a crunchy side or serve alongside a refreshing salad. They also complement seafood recipes well, making them a fabulous addition to any seafood-themed spread.
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).