Looking for the best tuna recipe that will impress your family? These savory tuna empanadas provide a delightful twist on traditional tuna dishes, making them perfect for a family dinner. Whether you’re a fan of tuna or just seeking new tuna dinner recipes, this recipe will surely become a favorite in your household.
These empanadas are stuffed with a flavorful tuna filling that elevates the humble canned tuna into something extraordinary. With a crispy golden crust and a rich, savory interior, each bite delivers a kick of flavor that is both satisfying and comforting.
Delicious Tuna Empanadas
These savory tuna empanadas offer a delightful twist on traditional family dinner tuna recipes. They transform the everyday canned tuna into a gourmet experience, making it a standout option for those seeking new tuna dishes.
The flaky pastry encases a perfectly seasoned filling that balances richness with a hint of spice. With every bite, you’ll discover a satisfying combination of flavors that elevate this dish to new heights. It’s the best tuna recipe for impressing family and friends alike.
Ingredients for Flavor
Creating the perfect tuna empanadas starts with quality ingredients. Gather all-purpose flour, chilled unsalted butter, and cold water to form the dough. The filling features canned tuna, finely chopped onion and bell pepper, and fresh parsley that adds a burst of flavor.
Seasoning is key; garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper will enhance the overall taste. An egg wash gives the empanadas a beautiful golden-brown finish, making them visually appealing for your dinner table.
Dough Preparation
The first step in crafting these empanadas is preparing the dough. Combine flour and chilled butter until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually mix in cold water to bind it all together, forming a pliable dough.
Once the dough is formed, wrap it in plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for 30 minutes. This step is crucial for achieving a flaky, crispy crust that’s perfect for enveloping the delicious filling.
Crafting the Filling
While the dough chills, focus on preparing the flavorful filling. Sauté finely chopped onion and bell pepper in olive oil until they soften, releasing their natural sweetness. Add the flaked tuna along with parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
Cook for a few more minutes and then set aside to cool. This filling blends various textures and flavors, ensuring that each empanada will burst with freshness when bitten into.
Assembling the Empanadas
Preheat your oven and roll out the chilled dough on a floured surface to achieve the ideal thickness. Cut out circles and place a spoonful of the cooled tuna filling in the center of each. Carefully fold the dough to create a half-moon shape, making sure to seal the edges tightly.
Brushing the tops with a beaten egg before baking will create a glossy, appetizing crust. Place your assembled empanadas on a parchment-lined baking sheet, ready for the oven.
Baking and Serving
Bake the empanadas until they turn a beautiful golden brown, which usually takes about 20-25 minutes. The result is a crispy crust that perfectly contrasts the savory filling inside.
Serve the warm empanadas on a rustic wooden table, garnished with fresh parsley and accompanied by a zesty dipping sauce. This presentation not only invites your family to enjoy but also highlights the care and effort put into making these delightful snacks for a family gathering.
Delicious Tuna Empanadas
These tuna empanadas are a fantastic way to enjoy a casual yet satisfying meal. The flaky pastry encases a perfectly seasoned tuna filling that balances richness with a hint of spice, making it an ideal dish for any occasion.
Ingredients
- 2 cups all-purpose flour
- 1/2 cup unsalted butter, chilled and cubed
- 1/4 cup cold water
- 1 can (12 oz) tuna, drained and flaked
- 1/2 cup onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup bell pepper, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions
- Prepare the Dough: In a large bowl, combine the flour and chilled butter. Mix until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Gradually add cold water, mixing until a dough forms. Wrap in plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes.
- Make the Filling: In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté onion and bell pepper until soft. Add the flaked tuna, parsley, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, then remove from heat and let cool.
- Assemble the Empanadas: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Roll out the dough on a floured surface to about 1/8 inch thickness. Cut into circles (about 4 inches in diameter). Place a spoonful of the tuna filling in the center of each circle. Fold the dough over to create a half-moon shape and press the edges to seal.
- Bake: Place the empanadas on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the tops with beaten egg. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown.
- Serve: Enjoy the empanadas warm, perfect for a family dinner or as a satisfying snack.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Nutrition Information
- Servings: 8 empanadas
- Calories: 220kcal
- Fat: 12g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
