Make this extra creamy Tuna Dip recipe that’s ready for any occasion! Skip store-bought dips and whip up this quick and easy homemade spread instead!
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No more boring tuna recipes!
This recipe for tuna dip skips the traditional mayo and goes straight for the creamy alternatives. With an added briny pop from capers to top off this addicting dip that's the ultimate spread for vegetables or crackers.
To make the most of your seafood appetizer, make sure you're using high-quality canned tuna. The fresher the fish, the better the taste!!! Same goes for making tuna fried rice, this super easy tuna pesto pasta, or this delicious tuna melt wrap.
WHY YOU'LL LOVE THIS TUNA DIP RECIPE
One of the best things about this dip is how creamy it is. Instead of reaching for the mayo to pair with tuna, reach for cream cheese and sour cream to add that irresistibly creamy and delicious flavor to the dip.
This recipe delicious as a dip, but even better on toast, or turned into this mouthwatering Tuna Melt Wrap that my family is obsessed with.
Other reasons why you'll love it:
- It's easy to make!
- Tuna is packed with protein and rich in B-complex, A, D, and other vitamins.
- So versatile! We use it as dip, on toast, or on a wrap.
- Ingredients are usually on hand.
- The capers add the best brine and flavor.
- It's great for lunch, appetizer, or as a healthy snack.
- Healthier option without mayo.
INGREDIENTS YOU'LL NEED
- Your favorite canned tuna.
- Cream cheese
- Sour cream
- Red onion
- Parsley
- Red pepper flakes
- Capers
STEP-BY-STEP INSTRUCTIONS
- Open and drain the tinned tuna, and set aside. Make sure all the liquid is drained out, any left behind can make the dip watery.
- In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, onion, parsley, red pepper and salt.
- Add the drained tinned tuna to the mixture and fold it gently using a fork.
- Transfer the tuna dip to a serving bowl or rimmed plate.
- Top with fresh capers and place in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
VARIATIONS AND SUBSTITUTIONS
- Instead of red onion, try green onion.
- If you love brine, but capers aren't your thing, go for chopped kalamata olives to garnish. I love adding olives to seafood, like in this fish and olive recipe!
- Skipping spicy? Add a sprinkle of aleppo pepper, or smoked paprika to transform this dip to a smoked tuna dip.
EXPERT TIPS
- Use high-quality tinned fish. Trust me, it makes a big difference in every recipe, but especially in this one where it's the highlight of the dish.
- Drain the can well. Any leftover liquid will water down the dip.
- Store it properly: Once opened, canned tuna should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within a few days. This will help keep it fresh and prevent spoilage.
- Don't skip the capers! They add a lot of flavor and brine and make this canned tuna recipe shine!
SERVING TIPS
It's perfectly paired with crackers, potato chips, tortilla chips, pita chips, or vegetables. It's tasty with just about dipping vessel.
Serve it on a rimmed plate or in a bowl for a tasty appetizer spread or a snack.
STORAGE TIPS
Storing it properly ensures freshness and longevity. Though I wouldn't recommend storing it in the fridge for longer than 3 days. Make sure it's in an airtight container.
It can be made in advance and stored in the fridge until you're ready to bring to the party!
FAQ
No. I don't recommend freezing tuna dip. The sour cream has a tendency to separate in the freezer and the consistency won't be the same. Make it and eat it fresh or store in the fridge for a few days.
Yes! You can use any canned tuna, however, I recommend going with high-quality options to get the best flavor. Especially in a dish where it's the star ingredient.
Cream cheese and sour cream are the best substitute for mayo. They provide a creamier taste and consistency that you will absolutely love! By using cream cheese and sour cream you're also adding a tangy flavor that's perfect for elevating canned tuna!
Herbs are the best way to flavor canned tuna. Fresh herbs when possible create a burst of flavor which is needed to elevate the flavor of tuna. Add a sprinkle of red pepper flakes and black pepper to give it another much needed flavor and kick.
OTHER APPETIZER RECIPES
Sardine Sandwich with Spicy Mayo
I LOVE HEARING FROM YOU! When you make this dish, please RATE using the ⭐️stars, and COMMENT at the end of the page. I love connecting with you in the comments section.
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Tuna Dip
Ingredients
- 6-8 oz canned tuna , packed in water or oil
- 2 oz cream cheese , softened
- ½ cup sour cream
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup parsley, finely chopped
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ¼ teaspoon salt , or more to taste
- capers to garnish
Instructions
- Open and drain the tinned tuna, and set aside.
- In a medium bowl, mix the cream cheese, sour cream, onion, parsley, red pepper and salt.
- Add the drained tinned tuna to the mixture and fold it gently using a fork.
- Transfer the tuna dip to a serving bowl or rimmed plate.
- Top with fresh capers and place in the fridge until you're ready to serve.
Notes
- Use high-quality tuna. Trust me, it makes a big difference in every recipe, but especially a tuna dip recipe where it's the highlight of the dish.
- Drain the tuna well. Any leftover liquid will water down the dip.
- Store it properly: Once opened, canned tuna should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator and used within a few days. This will help keep it fresh and prevent spoilage.
- Don't skip the capers! They add a lot of flavor and brine and make this canned tuna recipe shine!
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