Ingredients
Scale
- 3 cans (5 ounces each) canned light tuna in water, drained very well (about 340 g drained)
- 2 large eggs, beaten
- 1/2 cup (45 g) finely grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup (25 g) thinly sliced scallions
- 2 tablespoons (28 g) mayonnaise
- 2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon finely grated lemon zest
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon fine salt
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil, divided
Instructions
- Drain the tuna in a fine-mesh strainer. Press firmly with the back of a spoon until no more water drips out, then blot any visible surface moisture and break large pieces into small flakes.
- Whisk the eggs, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon zest, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a large bowl until smooth.
- Fold in the drained tuna, finely grated Parmesan, and scallions until evenly combined without mashing the tuna into a paste.
- Let the mixture rest for 5 minutes. It should hold together when pressed. If it remains loose, add 1 tablespoon finely grated Parmesan and rest for another 2 minutes.
- Divide the mixture into 8 equal portions. Compress each portion gently and shape it into a patty about 3 inches wide and 1/2 inch thick.
- Preheat a large nonstick skillet over medium heat for 2 minutes. Add half of the olive oil and tilt to coat the surface.
- Add 4 patties and cook without moving for 3 to 4 minutes, until the bottoms are golden and the edges look set.
- Slide a thin spatula completely under each patty, flip once, and cook the second side for about 3 minutes, until golden and firm in the center.
- Transfer to a plate. Add the remaining oil and cook the second batch. Let all patties rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Draining the tuna thoroughly is the most important step for patties that hold together.
- Use finely grated Parmesan rather than large shreds so it absorbs moisture evenly.
- Keep the patties about 3 inches wide and flip them only after a complete golden crust forms.
- Refrigerate cooked patties for up to 3 days or freeze with parchment between layers for up to 2 months.
- Nutrition is an estimate for 2 patties and includes the listed olive oil. Sauces, salads, wraps, and other serving additions are not included.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
