Tuna Stuffed Jumbo Shells
Creamy tuna-filled jumbo shells layered with fresh vegetables make a delightful, easy appetizer or light main dish perfect for family dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise and sugar.
- Add the drained tuna, diced celery, diced green or sweet onion, shredded carrot, and minced parsley to the bowl and mix well.
- Spoon the tuna mixture into the cooked, drained, and cooled jumbo shells.
- Cover and refrigerate before serving.
Tips & Substitutions
For added flavor, consider mixing in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a splash of lemon juice to the tuna filling. If you're looking for a healthier option, Greek yogurt can be substituted for mayonnaise. To make it more colorful, feel free to add diced bell peppers or a pinch of cayenne for heat. Ensure the shells are fully cooked but not overdone, as they should hold the filling without breaking.
Serving Suggestions
These tuna stuffed jumbo shells make a delightful appetizer or light meal. Serve them chilled on a bed of mixed greens with a drizzle of vinaigrette for a refreshing touch. They also pair beautifully with a side of garlic bread or a light soup, making for a well-rounded dinner. For more tuna ideas, check out Party Sandwiches(Tuna Filling) and other seafood recipes.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, it's best to do so gently in the microwave to prevent the shells from becoming too soft. If they seem dry, add a little extra mayonnaise or a splash of water before reheating.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Tuna Stuffed Jumbo Shells contains roughly 293 calories, with 8g protein, 42g carbohydrates, and 13g fat. It is an excellent source of vitamin C (69% of the Daily Value), iron (45% of the Daily Value), and dietary fiber (40% of the Daily Value), and a good source of protein and vitamin A. It also contributes 11g of dietary fiber toward your daily target.
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?
Yes, you can use fresh cooked tuna instead of canned. Just make sure to flake it into similar-sized pieces as the canned version and adjust the seasoning as fresh tuna might have a milder flavor. Cooking it with a bit of seasoning can enhance the taste.
Can I prepare the shells ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tuna filling and cook the jumbo shells a day in advance. Just store the filling separately in the fridge and assemble them a few hours before serving to ensure they stay fresh and flavorful.
What can I substitute for tuna?
If you're looking for an alternative to tuna, canned chicken or chickpeas can work well. For a vegetarian option, consider using mashed avocado or a mix of cooked quinoa and beans for a protein-packed filling that still offers great texture.
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).