Tuna Oriental
A creamy, crunchy tuna casserole with Chinese-inspired chow mein noodles, flavorful vegetables, and a savory mushroom sauce, perfect for a quick and satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place chopped celery, chopped onion, and butter in a 1-quart casserole dish.
- Heat in microwave on full power for 3 minutes or until celery and onion are tender.
- Stir in cream of mushroom soup, drained tuna, milk, cashews (if using), salt, and pepper, using only 1 cup of chow mein noodles.
- Top with the remaining chow mein noodles.
- Cook in microwave on full power for 6 to 7 minutes or until heated through and the internal temperature reaches 150°F.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt to the mixture. If you prefer a crunchier topping, toast the chow mein noodles in a pan before adding them on top. You can substitute the tuna with canned chicken or salmon for a different flavor. Adjust the seasoning according to your taste, especially if using salted cashews.
Serving Suggestions
Serve Tuna Oriental hot, garnished with additional cashews for crunch. It pairs beautifully with a fresh garden salad or steamed vegetables for a complete meal. For a heartier option, consider serving it with rice or quinoa. This dish is also a great candidate for potlucks, where it can be enjoyed alongside other American recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating. You can also bake it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This dish can also be frozen for up to a month; just be aware that the noodles may lose some texture upon reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Oriental contains roughly 1019 calories, with 26g protein, 63g carbohydrates, and 79g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (51% of the Daily Value), iron (47% of the Daily Value), and vitamin C (45% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 796mg per serving (35% 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 vegetables instead of canned soup?
Yes, you can use a homemade cream sauce instead of canned soup for a fresher taste. Simply sauté fresh mushrooms and onions, add cream, and simmer until thickened. This will enhance the overall flavor and texture of the dish.
What can I substitute for chow mein noodles?
If you can't find chow mein noodles, you can use crispy fried onions or even crushed tortilla chips for a different crunch. Alternatively, serve the casserole over a bed of rice or noodles to keep it hearty.
Is this dish suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! Tuna Oriental can be made ahead and stored for quick meals. Just prepare it as directed, let it cool, and portion it into containers. It's convenient for lunches or busy weeknight dinners, and flavors improve after a day in the fridge.
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).