Transform your lunchtime routine with this vibrant and flavorful Paleo Tomato Basil Tuna recipe! Packed with protein from tender canned tuna and bursting with freshness from juicy cherry tomatoes and fragrant basil, this dish is a perfect blend of wholesome, nutrient-dense ingredients. A quick sauté of garlic brings depth, while a splash of lemon juice and extra virgin olive oil adds a zesty, Mediterranean-inspired touch. Ready in just 15 minutes, this gluten-free and dairy-free recipe works beautifully as a standalone dish or served atop a bed of baby spinach for a light, healthy meal. Perfect for meal preppers and those on a paleo diet, this easy tuna recipe delivers bold flavors with minimal effort for a fuss-free, satisfying dish.
Drain the canned tuna thoroughly and set aside in a mixing bowl.
Rinse the cherry tomatoes and slice them in half.
Chop the fresh basil leaves into thin strips, saving a few whole leaves for garnish if desired.
Peel and mince the garlic cloves.
Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, stirring to avoid burning.
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Sprinkle with sea salt and black pepper. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the tomatoes start to soften and release their juices.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the chopped basil. Remove from heat after about 30 seconds to preserve the fresh basil flavor.
In the mixing bowl with the tuna, pour the tomato and garlic mixture over the tuna. Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and the lemon juice. Gently toss everything together until evenly coated.
If serving on a bed of baby spinach, divide the spinach onto two plates and spoon the tuna mixture on top. Alternatively, serve the tuna mixture as is.
Garnish with whole basil leaves if desired. Serve immediately.
Calories |
504 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 43.5 g | 56% | |
| Saturated Fat | 6.2 g | 31% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.0 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 20 mg | 7% | |
| Sodium | 1434 mg | 62% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 14.9 g | 5% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 5.7 g | 20% | |
| Total Sugars | 5.1 g | ||
| Protein | 20.8 g | 42% | |
| Vitamin D | 1.1 mcg | 6% | |
| Calcium | 186 mg | 14% | |
| Iron | 5.1 mg | 28% | |
| Potassium | 1249 mg | 27% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.