Tuna In Tomato Juice
A refreshing tuna and vegetable mold in tomato juice, combining tangy lemon, crisp celery, peppers, and pickles, perfect for light lunches or elegant appetizers.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Soak the gelatine in cold water for 5 minutes.
- Dissolve the gelatine in 1 cup of boiling tomato juice; then cool.
- Combine the remaining cup of tomato juice with lemon juice, salt, and grated onion.
- When the mixture begins to thicken, add the cooled gelatine mixture to it.
- Add celery, green pepper, olives, pickles, and tuna fish to the thickening mixture.
- Pour into individual molds and chill until set.
Tips & Substitutions
To enhance flavor, consider adding a splash of Worcestershire sauce or hot sauce to the mixture. If you don't have celery salt, regular salt with a pinch of celery seed can be a good substitute. For a vegetarian version, you can replace the tuna with chickpeas. This dish can also be made ahead of time, which makes it perfect for gatherings or as part of a seafood recipes spread.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish chilled in individual molds for an elegant presentation. It pairs nicely with a crisp green salad or crusty bread. For an added touch, garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or dill. This dish also complements a spread of seafood recipes, making it great for parties or casual gatherings.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of tomato juice if it has thickened too much. Avoid microwaving to maintain texture and flavor.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna In Tomato Juice contains roughly 99 calories, with 4g protein, 10g carbohydrates, and 5g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (26% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2186mg per serving (95% 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 tomatoes instead of tomato juice?
Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes. Blend and strain them to make approximately 2 cups of tomato juice. Just ensure to season it similarly with lemon juice, salt, and other ingredients to achieve a balanced flavor in the recipe.
How long does it take for the dish to set?
The dish typically takes about 4-6 hours to set in the refrigerator. For best results, prepare it the night before serving, allowing ample time for it to firm up completely before unmolding.
Can I make this dish vegan?
Absolutely! You can substitute the gelatin with agar-agar, a plant-based alternative. Additionally, replace tuna with chickpeas or a combination of diced vegetables for a satisfying and flavorful vegan version.
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).