Serving tuna is a great way to make an impressive meal with minimal effort. Whether you’re serving it grilled, seared, or raw, tuna is a delicious fish that can be cooked in many different ways.
But what to serve with tuna? Choosing the right side dishes can be tricky, but don’t worry—we’ve got you covered.
Here I share with you some creative ideas for side dishes that will make your tuna dish even more delicious.
So, thank me later, now you just go to your kitchen and taste all these mouthwatering combinations one by one.
A Quick solution for what to serve with tuna – Cauliflower Rice Pilaf, Roasted Potatoes, Greens Salad, Roasted Veggies, Fruit Salsa, Grains, Grilled Vegetables, Salad, Sweet Potato Fries, Couscous, Rice Pilaf, Noodles, Kale Chips, Caprese Salad, Roasted Asparagus, Cauliflower Mash, Broccoli & Cheese Bake, Quinoa Pilaf, Cornbread, Baked Sweet Potato Wedges, and many others.
What is a tuna, and what does a tuna taste like?
Tuna is a saltwater fish that belongs to the mackerel family. It is most commonly found in the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans, as well as the Mediterranean Sea.
It has a firm texture with large flakes and a mild flavor. Tuna can be cooked or served raw, depending on your preference.
When cooked, tuna has a mild to moderate flavor that is somewhat similar to swordfish but more delicate in texture. Raw tuna has a sweet yet slightly salty taste.
The flesh of tuna is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which are vital for healthy brain function and cardiovascular health.
Additionally, tuna contains significant amounts of protein and vitamins B6, B12, and D. Overall, tuna is an ideal choice for those searching for a nutritious and delicious fish meal.
Best sides to serve with tuna
Tuna is a versatile seafood dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. To make your tuna meal extra special, here are 40 of the best side dishes to pair with it.
1. Cauliflower Rice Pilaf
This dish combines two classic side dishes—cauliflower rice and pilaf—into one incredibly flavorful and healthy dish.
Simply sauté fresh cauliflower rice in a bit of olive oil and garlic until tender-crisp. Then you can add cooked orzo pasta, currants, and fresh parsley, season with salt and pepper, and voila!
You have a hearty yet light side dish that perfectly complements any type of tuna dish.
2. Roasted Potatoes
I love Roasted potatoes as they are simple to make yet packed with flavor. For a new twist on this classic side dish, you can try roasting potatoes in garlic-herb oil made from herbs like thyme or rosemary combined with olive oil and garlic cloves.
Once the potatoes are done roasting, sprinkle them generously with freshly grated Parmesan cheese before serving them alongside your favorite tuna recipe.
3. Greens Salad
Nothing beats the crunch of a green salad when served alongside a hearty seafood entrée like tuna steak or sushi-grade sashimi.
To give your greens salad extra flavor, you can toss it with roasted vegetables like peppers or onions for added texture and sweetness.
Or opt for something heartier by adding roasted nuts such as almonds or walnuts for additional protein to make your salad more filling.
4. Roasted Veggies
Roasted vegetables make a tasty addition to your meal. The sweetness of the veggies complements the mild flavor of tuna perfectly.
Plus, roasted vegetables are incredibly easy to prepare. Simply toss your favorite veggies in oil and seasoning, then roast them in the oven until they’re tender and lightly browned.
If you’re feeling adventurous, try adding herbs such as rosemary or thyme for an extra layer of flavor!
5. Fruit Salsa
For a sweet yet tangy taste, serve your tuna with fresh fruit salsa. This tropical treat pairs well with grilled fish or seared steak.
You can use apples, mangoes, pineapples, or oranges—the possibilities are endless!
Just dice up your favorite fruits and mix them together with lime juice and cilantro for an unforgettable side dish.
Lastly, don’t forget to add some jalapeno if you like it spicy!
6. Grains
I always prefer Grains like quinoa or couscous as a perfect for soaking up all the flavors of tuna.
Cook them according to package instructions and then dress them up however you like—try adding some nuts and dried fruit for crunchiness or stirring in pesto for an Italian twist!
If you want something even heartier, try serving your tuna over brown rice or bulgur wheat.
7. Grilled Vegetables
A mix of colorful vegetables like peppers, onions, squash, mushrooms, and zucchini grilled with olive oil and herbs is a perfect partner for tuna.
It’s light yet flavorful and a great way to get your veggies in!
8. Salad
A simple green salad with leafy greens dressed lightly in olive oil and lemon juice makes an excellent side for tuna steak or fillet.
You can also jazz up your salad by adding some fresh fruit or nuts for added flavor and texture.
9. Sweet Potato Fries
Sweet potato fries just taste perfect when served alongside tuna burgers or tacos. They can be baked or fried and seasoned with rosemary, garlic powder, paprika, or smoked salt for an extra bit of flavor.
10. Couscous
This light yet hearty grain is a great choice to serve with seared or grilled tuna steaks.
Prepare couscous according to package instructions, then add sautéed vegetables such as bell peppers, onions, and carrots for an extra boost of nutrition and color to the plate.
11. Rice Pilaf
Rice pilaf is another classic side that goes exceptionally well with tuna dishes such as casseroles or salads made from canned fish.
Simply cook long grain rice according to package instructions, then add some peas and diced vegetables such as bell pepper, onion, or celery during the last few minutes of cooking time for additional flavor and texture!
12. Noodles
Whether you opt for traditional egg noodles, udon noodles, or soba noodles, these tasty carbs are an ideal companion to any type of seafood-based dish, including tuna!
You can even create a delicious noodle bowl by adding sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers along with herbs like ginger and garlic for extra depth of flavor!
13. Kale Chips
These crispy chips made from kale are not only incredibly tasty but also loaded with essential vitamins and minerals, making them a great nutritious addition to any meal featuring tuna!
Simply coat kale pieces lightly with olive oil, then sprinkle with salt before baking until crispy perfection!
14. Caprese Salad
Add some Italian flair to your meal by serving Caprese salad, which features juicy tomatoes combined with mozzarella cheese cubes drizzled with fragrant balsamic vinegar syrup!
The combination of sweet tomatoes paired with cream cheese makes this salad truly irresistible!
15. Roasted Asparagus
Asparagus roasted in the oven until crisp-tender is another fantastic partner for tuna dishes, as it adds both texture and flavor without overpowering the mild taste of the fish itself!
16. Cauliflower Mash
Cauliflower mash provides a wonderful taste to mashed potatoes due to its similar creamy texture but much lower calorie content!
Cook cauliflower florets until tender before mashing together with butter, cream cheese, garlic powder, and chives for an amazingly flavorful side dish worthy of any dinner table!
17. Broccoli & Cheese Bake
This cheesy bake featuring broccoli florets tossed in cream sauce is sure to please anyone who loves cheesy comfort food sides and trust me, it is just delicious!
You can also prepare this bake using frozen broccoli florets, so it’s quick enough even on busy weekday nights when you need something tasty but doesn’t have much time on hand!
18. Quinoa Pilaf
Use quinoa instead of rice when preparing pilaf if you prefer gluten-free options, as quinoa is packed full of healthy nutrients while still providing amazing flavor when cooked properly!
Spice up this pilaf by adding fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley, along with crunchy chopped walnuts if desired!
19. Cornbread
Cornbread offers a delightful balance between sweetness from corn kernels combined with fragrant, savory herbs making it delicious enough to serve as either a main course bread replacement OR a scrumptious side option depending on how you season it!.
Serve with butter melted over top hot slices right out oven either sweet honey butter mixture and chili powder cilantro would both be delightful additions!.
20. Baked Sweet Potato Wedges
Sweet potato wedges offer a slightly sweet earthy taste, perfect complementing heartier entrees like seared smoky flavored tuna steak!.
Brush cut wedges with lightly melted coconut oil, sprinkling paprika and cayenne pepper them roasting at 375F, occasionally turning until golden brown crisp edges!.
Enjoy them dipping sauces like honey mustard ranch dressing, even plain Greek yogurt!.
21. Garlic Toast
You should try Garlic toast which adds a crunchy textural element to almost any meal featuring tuna! Slice thick slices of white bread, lightly brush olive oil sprinkle minced garlic salt before baking until toasty brown!.
Serve alongside grilled fish sandwiches or as tasty side option salads.
22. Sauteed Mushrooms & Onions
The savory combination of sautéed mushrooms and onions is ideal for adding earthy flavor to dishes including tuna!
Simply heat some butter or oil in a pan, then cook sliced mushrooms and diced onions together with some fresh herbs such as thyme or oregano until tender.
Delicious served over top steamed white rice, mashed potatoes, or as a side dish for grilled fish.
23. Sauteed Spinach
For an easy way to get your daily dose of greens, sauté some fresh spinach in olive oil with garlic and onion powder!
This side dish is especially tasty and served alongside grilled tuna steaks for a balanced meal full of essential vitamins and minerals.
24. Roasted Carrots & Parsnips
Roasted carrots and parsnips are other delicious options when looking for sides that can be paired with tuna dishes!
Simply peel the vegetables, then cut them into slices before tossing them in a bit of oil along with salt, pepper, and any desired seasonings such as cumin or paprika.
Bake at 400°F until tender-crisp for a colorful and flavorful side dish.
25. Grilled Asparagus
For the ultimate in simple yet delicious sides to serve with tuna, you can try grilling some fresh asparagus!
Start by trimming off the tough ends of the spears, then rinse them before tossing them with oil and seasoning of your choice.
Place on preheated grill and cook until lightly browned and tender-crisp, flipping once during cooking time.
Enjoy as is or topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese!
26. Baked Beans
Enjoy the classic combination of beans and tuna by serving a hearty batch of baked beans as your side dish!
Start with some canned white beans, then add in bacon, onion, garlic, and seasonings such as mustard powder or Worcestershire sauce to create a full-bodied flavor.
Bake at 350°F until bubbly and fragrant for an easy yet comforting accompaniment to any tuna dish.
27. Roasted Veggies Bowl
A roasted veggies bowl is the perfect way to serve up lots of vegetables without having to prepare each one individually!
Cut into bite-sized pieces carrots, peppers, zucchini, Brussels sprouts, and whatever other vegetables you have on hand before tossing them with olive oil and then roasting in a 425°F oven.
Enjoy alongside your favorite tuna dish for a balanced meal.
28. Pineapple Salsa
For a tropical twist on the traditional salsa, why not try adding some fresh pineapple to the mix?
Combine diced pineapple with red onion, jalapeño pepper, cilantro, lime juice, and seasonings such as chili powder and cumin before stirring until everything is well combined.
Serve with grilled or pan-seared tuna steaks for an unexpected burst of flavor!
29. Cucumber Salad
Cool down after eating your warm tuna entree by serving up some cucumber salad!
Simply combine thinly sliced cucumbers with red onion, dill, white vinegar, and sugar, then let it stand for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Enjoy as is or top with feta cheese and freshly chopped parsley for an extra flavorful side dish.
30. Quinoa Bowl
A quinoa bowl is an easy way to get nutrients and fiber into your meal along with the tuna!
Cook some quinoa according to package instructions, then stir in diced vegetables such as peppers, onions, and spinach.
Add seasonings of your choice before serving for a balanced side dish that’s packed with health benefits.
31. Zucchini Fritters
Easy to make and totally delicious, zucchini fritters are always a hit! Combine grated zucchini with diced onion and herbs such as parsley before stirring in a bit of flour.
Fry in small batches for about 3-4 minutes on each side or until golden brown, then drain on paper towels. Serve alongside your favorite tuna dish for an unbeatable combination!
32. Orzo Salad
For a lighter side dish that still packs flavor, you can try making up some orzo salad! Boil orzo according to package instructions, then stir in chopped vegetables such as tomatoes, cucumbers, bell peppers, and olives.
Add seasonings like garlic powder, oregano, paprika, and salt to taste before serving cold or at room temperature.
33. Chickpea Salad
High in protein and fiber, chickpeas make a wonderful addition to any tuna meal!
Start by combining cooked chickpeas with diced red onion, fresh parsley, lemon juice, and extra virgin olive oil before stirring together until everything is combined.
Add more seasonings to taste before serving – delicious!
34. Greek Yogurt Sauce
For an easy yet tasty accompaniment to your tuna dish, try making up some Greek yogurt sauce!
Simply combine plain Greek yogurt with fresh dill and garlic for the base, then add in any other ingredients you like, such as capers or olives.
Perfect for drizzling over grilled fish or spooning atop pan-seared tuna steaks.
35. Tomato-Basil Bruschetta
Bruschetta is always a crowd-pleaser, and it tastes wonderfully with tuna dishes! Start by combining diced tomatoes with fresh basil, garlic, and extra virgin olive oil before seasoning with salt and pepper.
Spread the mixture on toasted baguette slices, then top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an appetizer that’s sure to please.
36. Grilled Corn
The smoky flavor of grilled corn is a delicious addition to any tuna meal.
Start by removing the husks and silk, then brush the cobs with olive oil and seasonings such as chili powder, cumin, and smoked paprika before grilling over medium heat for about 10 minutes or until lightly charred.
So good!
37. Baked Sweet Potato Fries
Who doesn’t love sweet potato fries? For an effortless side dish that goes great with tuna dishes, try baking some sweet potato fries!
Simply cut sweet potatoes into strips, then toss them in olive oil, salt, and pepper before spreading them onto a foil-lined baking sheet.
Bake at 425°F for about 25 minutes or until golden brown and crispy. Enjoy!
38. Spinach Salad
For a fresh and healthy side, try making up some spinach salad!
Start by combining baby spinach with diced tomatoes, red onion, and walnuts before adding a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, and salt.
Serve with your tuna dish for an unbeatable combination that’s sure to please!
39. Roasted Sweet Potatoes
Roasted sweet potatoes are a great side dish for tuna dishes, as they’re full of flavor and nutrients!
Start by cutting sweet potatoes into cubes, then tossing them in olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, and salt before baking at 425°F for about 20 minutes or until golden brown. Serve hot or at room temperature – yum!
40. Avocado Salad
Cool and creamy avocado makes the perfect accompaniment to tuna entrees!
Start by combining diced avocados with tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice before seasoning with salt and pepper.
Drizzle over freshly cooked fish or spoon over pan-seared tuna steaks for a delicious and nutritious side.
What are the best flavors to go with tuna?
When it comes to tuna, the possibilities for flavors are endless. However, some of the most popular and delicious flavor combinations include lemon and capers, salsa and tomatillo, garlic and herb, wasabi aioli, and pesto.
For an Asian-inspired flavor profile, try adding ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, or chili paste. To give a bit of sweetness to your tuna dish, try mixing in diced apples or pineapple with mayonnaise or yogurt-based dressing.
Don’t forget to experiment with spices as well – cumin works especially well when paired with tuna.
How do you jazz up tuna?
There are plenty of tasty options to jazz up canned tuna. Here are just a few ideas:
– Try adding some Italian flavors with diced tomatoes, olives, basil, and oregano.
– Create a delicious Asian salad by combining tuna with edamame beans, crunchy vegetables like peppers, cucumbers, and carrots, and an Asian-style dressing made from soy sauce and fresh ginger.
– Make a Mediterranean-inspired tuna sandwich by layering it on toasted whole grain bread with some feta cheese, spinach leaves, and roasted red pepper slices.
– Heat things up by making a spicy tuna melt – top the tuna with some jalapeños and melted cheddar cheese, and serve it open-faced on a slice of toasted sourdough bread.
– Give the tuna a Mexican twist by adding diced red onion, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice and stuffing it into soft tortillas.
With just a few simple ingredients, you can take canned tuna from boring to delicious in no time! Experiment with different flavors and combinations for endless ways to jazz up your next tuna dish. Enjoy!
How should tuna be served?
Tuna can be served in many different ways. It can be grilled, seared, baked, boiled, or pan-fried. It can also be served raw as sushi or sashimi.
For a quick and easy meal, it can be used in salads or sandwiches.
It is also delicious when combined with other ingredients such as tomatoes, avocado, olives, onions, and capers to create a flavorful tuna salad.
Additionally, it pairs well with pasta dishes like spaghetti puttanesca or tuna casserole.
10 best tuna recipes you must try
1. Tuna Poke Bowl
2. Grilled Tuna Steak
3. Baked Tuna Croquettes
4. Tuna Pasta Salad
5. Avocado Tuna Melt
6. Spicy Tuna Sushi Roll
7. Seared Ahi Tuna Tacos
8. Mediterranean Tuna Salad
9. Tuna Niçoise Salad
10. Tom Yum Soup Noodle Bowls
FAQs on what to serve with tuna
Q1. What can I mix with a can of tuna?
There are plenty of options for adding variety to canned tuna. You can mix it with other ingredients such as mayonnaise, mustard, relish, diced celery or onion, chopped hard-boiled eggs, pickles, capers, olives, cucumber slices, sun-dried tomatoes or even fruit like diced apples and raisins.
To make it more filling, you can add cooked grains like quinoa or bulgur wheat. You could also fold in some cooked beans, such as kidney or garbanzo beans, for added protein. Other flavor suggestions include dill weed or dried herbs; garlic powder; lemon juice; hot sauce; and different types of cheese like cheddar, Parmesan, or feta.
For a lighter version, you could even try mixing it with plain Greek yogurt or mashed avocado. The possibilities are endless! Just ensure to add a little bit of salt and pepper for flavor. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious tuna salad sandwich in no time! Enjoy!
Q2. What to put in tuna to make it taste good?
There are many ways to make tuna taste great! You can start by adding flavorful ingredients like diced tomatoes, onions, celery, capers, olives, pickles, and herbs. You can also add a splash of vinegar or lemon juice to bring out the flavor. For added zing, you can add some hot sauce or chili flakes.
A creamy mayo-based dressing is also good for a hearty tuna salad. To give it an extra kick of protein and crunchy texture, top it off with nuts or seeds like pumpkin seeds or sunflower seeds. Taste different flavors and textures until you find a combination that suits your tastes best! Enjoy!
Q3. Do you eat tuna with mayonnaise?
Tuna, when combined with mayonnaise, makes a delicious and savory sandwich filling or salad topping. To make a tuna salad sandwich, start by draining the oil from canned tuna. Mix together mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a healthier option), chopped onion or celery, salt and pepper, and any other seasonings you like.
Spread the mixture on the bread and enjoy! For an even tastier option, add some shredded cheese to your tuna salad before serving it on your favorite bread. You can also use this same recipe to top salads instead of sandwiches. Whichever version you choose, tuna salad is sure to be a hit!
Tuna is also a great way to add protein to pasta dishes without making them too rich. Simply sauté some onion, garlic, and bell pepper in olive oil.
Then add the canned tuna with a splash of water or chicken broth and let everything simmer until the liquid is almost completely absorbed.
Finally, stir in mayonnaise to create a creamy sauce that coats the pasta. Sprinkle some fresh parsley over the top for extra flavor, and you have a dish that both kids and adults will love!
Tuna combined with mayonnaise is also simple to use as an appetizer or snack. To make tuna pâté, mix together canned tuna, cream cheese, chives, salt and pepper. Serve it with crackers or sliced vegetables for an easy snack everyone can enjoy!
