Polpette di Tonno: A Delightful Italian Tuna Meatball Recipe
Are you ready to dive into the delicious world of Italian cuisine? Today, we will explore a fantastic recipe known as Polpette di Tonno, which means tuna meatballs in Italian. This dish is not only tasty but also brings a piece of Italian culture right into your kitchen!
Polpette di Tonno are popular in Italian homes, especially during the summer months when fresh tuna is more abundant. These meatballs are light, flavorful, and perfect for a family dinner or even a fun party appetizer. Plus, they are quick and easy to make, making them a favorite among busy families. So, let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
| Tuna (canned, drained) | 2 cans (about 280 grams each) |
| Breadcrumbs | 1 cup |
| Parmesan cheese (grated) | 1/2 cup |
| Egg | 1 large |
| Fresh parsley (chopped) | 1/4 cup |
| Garlic (minced) | 2 cloves |
| Salt | 1/2 teaspoon |
| Pepper | 1/4 teaspoon |
| Olive oil (for frying) | As needed |
You can replace breadcrumbs with gluten-free breadcrumbs if you need a gluten-free option. Additionally, feel free to use any type of cheese you enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Tuna: Open the cans of tuna and drain the excess liquid. Place the tuna in a large mixing bowl and break it into smaller pieces with a fork.
- Add Ingredients: To the bowl with tuna, add breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan cheese, the egg, chopped parsley, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Mix everything together until well combined.
- Form Meatballs: With clean hands, take small portions of the mixture and roll them into balls, about the size of a golf ball.
- Heat the Oil: In a large frying pan, heat enough olive oil over medium heat to cover the bottom of the pan.
- Fry the Meatballs: Once the oil is hot, carefully place the meatballs in the pan. Fry them for about 4-5 minutes on each side or until they are golden brown.
- Drain Excess Oil: Once cooked, transfer the meatballs to a plate lined with paper towels to remove any excess oil.
And there you have it! Delicious Polpette di Tonno ready to be served!
Nutritional Information
| Nutrient | Amount | Daily Value (%) |
| Calories | 180 | 9% |
| Protein | 16g | 32% |
| Carbohydrates | 12g | 4% |
| Fats | 8g | 12% |
| Sodium | 400mg | 17% |
| Fiber | 1g | 4% |
Tips and Tricks
- Customize Your Flavor: Add different herbs like basil or oregano for a unique twist!
- Make It Spicy: If you like some heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the mixture.
- Don’t Overcrowd: While frying, make sure not to overcrowd the pan. This helps them cook evenly.
- Store Leftovers: Keep any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
FAQs
What can I serve with Polpette di Tonno?
These tuna meatballs go well with a fresh salad, pasta, or even in a sandwich!
Can I bake Polpette di Tonno instead of frying?
Yes! Just place them on a baking sheet and bake at 400°F (200°C) for about 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover meatballs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Can I freeze Polpette di Tonno?
Yes, you can freeze these meatballs! Place them in a freezer-safe container, and they can last for up to 2 months.
What kind of tuna should I use?
Canned tuna is perfect for this recipe. You can use either chunk light tuna or solid white tuna depending on your preference.
Can I use fresh tuna?
Absolutely! Just cook fresh tuna beforehand, then flake it and follow the same steps.
What are some variations of this recipe?
You can try adding chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, or even some finely chopped spinach for added flavor and nutrition.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
You can make Polpette di Tonno gluten-free by using gluten-free breadcrumbs.
How do I know when the meatballs are done frying?
They should be golden brown on the outside. You can also cut one open to check that it’s cooked through.
Can I serve these meatballs cold?
Yes, they can be served cold as a snack or appetizer! They are delicious either way.
Now that you know how to make Polpette di Tonno, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking. Enjoy this easy and delightful dish with family and friends!
