Tuna Spinach Braid
A flaky, savory braid filled with spinach, tuna, and cheese, perfect for brunch or light dinner, combining creamy textures with a crisp pastry exterior.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Preheat oven according to crescent roll package instructions.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine thawed and drained spinach, drained and flaked tuna, drained Ricotta cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, and minced garlic.
- Unroll the crescent rolls and arrange them on a baking sheet to form a rectangle or oval shape.
- Spread the spinach and tuna mixture evenly over the center of the dough, leaving borders along the edges.
- Fold the sides of the dough over the filling, overlapping slightly to form a braid or loaf shape.
- Bake in the preheated oven until the pastry is golden brown, about 20 minutes.
- Slice and serve warm.
Tips & Substitutions
For an extra flavor boost, consider adding some chopped fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the filling. If you don't have Ricotta cheese, cottage cheese can be a good substitute. You can also use fresh spinach instead of frozen if you prefer, just sauté it until wilted and drain well. To enhance the dish, serve with a side of Asparagus With Zest.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is wonderful served warm as a main course or as a hearty appetizer. Pair it with a light salad or some steamed vegetables for a complete meal. It also complements well with Mediterranean recipes, especially those featuring fresh herbs and citrus. Consider serving with a side of tzatziki for a refreshing contrast.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover Tuna Spinach Braid can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place slices in the oven at 350°F for about 10 minutes or until warmed through, ensuring the pastry stays flaky. You can also microwave individual portions, but the texture might not be as crisp.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Spinach Braid contains roughly 197 calories, with 18g protein, 5g carbohydrates, and 12g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (35% of the Daily Value) and calcium (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A. At about 197 calories per serving, it is a lighter, protein-rich choice.
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 make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the filling and assemble the braid in advance. Cover it tightly with plastic wrap and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Just be sure to let it sit at room temperature for about 15 minutes before placing it in the oven to ensure even cooking.
What can I use instead of tuna?
If you're looking for a different protein, canned salmon or shredded chicken are great alternatives. For a vegetarian option, consider using cooked lentils or chickpeas mixed with the spinach and cheeses to maintain a similar texture while keeping it meat-free.
How do I know when the braid is done baking?
The braid is done when the pastry is golden brown and flaky. Keep an eye on it during the last few minutes of baking, as oven temperatures can vary. A toothpick inserted into the filling should come out clean, indicating that it's heated through.
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).