This creamy, flavorful tuna spread transforms simple ingredients into an elegant appetizer that’s perfect for entertaining or casual snacking. With its rich, smooth texture enhanced by tangy lemon and fresh chives, this versatile spread elevates any gathering. Ready in just minutes, it’s the ideal solution when you need a delicious appetizer that looks and tastes gourmet but requires minimal effort.
Ingredients
For the Tuna Spread:
- 200g cooked tuna, drained (7 oz / 1 cup)
- 125g cream cheese, softened (4.4 oz / 1/2 cup)
- 1 small onion, finely minced (80g / 2.8 oz)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice (30ml / 1 fl oz)
- 1 small handful fresh chives, chopped (15g / 0.5 oz)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (5g)
- Fresh black pepper to taste
- Extra chives for garnish
Optional Variations:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for creamier texture
- 1/2 teaspoon sweet paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon curry powder
- 1 teaspoon lemon zest
- 1 tablespoon capers, finely chopped
Instructions
- Prepare ingredients by draining tuna completely and allowing cream cheese to reach room temperature for easier mixing.
- Mince onion very finely to ensure smooth texture throughout the spread.
- Combine base ingredients in a medium bowl by mashing tuna with a fork until broken into small flakes.
- Add cream cheese to the tuna and mix thoroughly until well combined and creamy.
- Incorporate seasonings by mixing in minced onion, lemon juice, mustard, and chopped chives.
- Season to taste with fresh black pepper and adjust lemon juice if needed for desired tanginess.
- Enhance texture by adding olive oil if you prefer a creamier consistency, mixing well.
- Transfer to serving jar or bowl, smoothing the top with a spoon.
- Garnish with additional chopped chives and a light sprinkle of paprika if desired.
- Chill for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld together.
- Serve with crusty bread, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Time & Servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: Makes 1 large jar (serves 6-8 as appetizer)
Nutrition (Per 2 Tablespoon Serving)
Calories: 85
Protein: 8g
Carbs: 2g
Fat: 5g
Fiber: 0g
Why This Recipe is Good for You
This tuna spread provides exceptional nutritional value in a delicious package. Tuna is an excellent source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. The addition of fresh lemon juice provides vitamin C and helps enhance iron absorption from the tuna. Chives contribute antioxidants and have natural antibacterial properties, while the moderate amount of cream cheese adds calcium for bone health. This spread offers a protein-rich alternative to many traditional appetizers while being naturally low in carbohydrates.