Tuna Plate
A versatile and creamy tuna appetizer flavored with herbs and hot sauce, perfect for parties or light snacks, served chilled with crackers or pita bread.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Blend together the Neufchatel cheese, chili sauce, parsley, minced onion, hot sauce, and drained tuna until well combined.
- Pack the mixture into a small bowl or mold and chill for 2 hours or until firm.
- Invert the chilled mixture onto a serving platter.
- Surround with crackers or wedges of pita bread.
- For variety, replace chili sauce with well-drained relish, soy sauce, or salad dressing, ensuring the mixture remains thick enough to firm by chilling.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, allow the Neufchatel cheese to soften at room temperature before blending. If you're out of chili sauce, try using well-drained relish or a splash of soy sauce for a different flavor profile. Adding a squeeze of lemon juice can also brighten the dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the hot sauce to taste.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tuna plate with an assortment of crackers or wedges of pita bread for dipping. This dish pairs beautifully with Dill Dip(For Raw Fresh Vegetables), enhancing the overall flavor experience. Consider adding a side salad or fresh vegetables to create a more balanced meal or appetizer spread.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, allow it to come to room temperature, or serve cold as it is intended. If the mixture becomes too soft after storing, simply re-chill it before serving to regain firmness.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Plate contains roughly 169 calories, with 6g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 14g fat. It is a good source of vitamin C (19% of the Daily Value), vitamin A (16% of the Daily Value), and protein (12% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 618mg per serving (27% 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 a different type of cheese instead of Neufchatel?
Yes, you can substitute Neufchatel cheese with cream cheese or a dairy-free alternative if preferred. Just ensure that the cheese is softened for easier blending. The flavor will vary slightly, but it will still create a delicious tuna dip.
How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply serve it with gluten-free crackers or vegetable sticks instead of regular crackers or pita bread. You can also use gluten-free bread as an alternative for dipping.
Can I prepare this dish in advance?
Absolutely! This dish can be prepared a day ahead of time. Just follow the instructions and chill it as directed. It's a great option for parties or gatherings, allowing you more time to enjoy with guests while still serving a delicious appetizer.
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).