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Air Fryer Tuna Patties Recipe: A Delicious and Healthy Delight

Tuna patties are a fantastic way to enjoy a nutritious meal, and when prepared in an air fryer, they become even healthier without sacrificing flavour. This recipe for Air Fryer Tuna Patties is quick, easy, and perfect for weeknight dinners, lunchboxes, or even as a party snack. Let’s dive into this delightful dish that showcases the humble tuna in a fresh, new light!

Ingredients

To make approximately four servings of tuna patties, you will need the following ingredients:

• Two cans of tuna (preferably in water or olive oil, drained)
• 100g breadcrumbs (you can use gluten-free if preferred)
• One large egg
• 50g grated cheese (cheddar works well)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves of garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon of fresh parsley, chopped (or 1 teaspoon dried parsley)
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• A splash of lemon juice
• Cooking spray or a small amount of olive oil (for frying)

Optional Additions:

• Chopped chillies for a bit of heat
• Other vegetables like grated carrot or finely chopped spinach for added nutrition

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Mixture

1. Drain the Tuna: Open the cans of tuna and drain off any excess liquid. Make sure it’s thoroughly drained to avoid soggy patties.

2. Mix Ingredients: In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, grated cheese, chopped onion, minced garlic, parsley, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and a splash of lemon juice.

3. Combine: Mix the ingredients until well-combined. You can use a fork or your hands for this step. If the mixture feels too wet, add a bit more breadcrumbs until you achieve a mouldable consistency.

Step 2: Form the Patties

1. Shape the Mixture: Divide the mixture into equal portions and form them into patties, about 1.5 cm thick. You should be able to make around six to eight patties depending on the size you prefer.

Step 3: Prepare the Air Fryer

1. Preheat the Air Fryer: Preheat your air fryer to 200°C (390°F) for about 5 minutes.

2. Prepare the Patties: Lightly spray or brush each tuna patty with cooking spray or olive oil for an extra crispy finish.

Step 4: Cook the Patties

1. Air Fry: Place the tuna patties in the air fryer basket in a single layer, ensuring they do not overcrowd. You might need to cook them in batches if your air fryer is small.

2. Cooking Time: Cook the patties for approximately 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden and crispy on the outside.

Step 5: Serve

1. Cool and Serve: Once cooked, remove the patties from the air fryer and allow them to cool slightly. Serve warm with a side of tartar sauce, salad, or in a bun as a burger.

Tips for Success

• Fresh vs. Canned Tuna: While canned tuna is convenient, using freshly cooked tuna can elevate this dish. If using fresh tuna, be sure to cook it thoroughly first.
• Make-Ahead: These patties can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge for up to two days. They can also be frozen, making them a brilliant meal prep option.
• Experiment with Flavour: Feel free to adjust the seasonings and add your favourite herbs or spices to make the patties uniquely yours.

Conclusion

Air Fryer Tuna Patties are an easy, nutritious option that your whole family will love. With a delightful crunch and a hearty flavour, these patties make a versatile addition to your meal rotation. Whether served as a snack, in a sandwich, or alongside a fresh salad, they are sure to impress. So gather your ingredients, fire up your air fryer, and enjoy this tasty treat! 🐟✨