Tuna and Rice Divan Recipe - A Classic American Dish with Broccoli and Cheddar

Tuna and Rice Divan

Tuna and Rice Divan Recipe - A Classic American Dish with Broccoli and Cheddar
Region / culture: USA | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tuna and Rice Divan
Tuna and Rice Divan

Tuna and Rice Divan is a classic comfort food dish that combines the flavors of tuna, rice, broccoli, and a creamy sauce. This recipe is easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal.

History

The origins of Tuna and Rice Divan can be traced back to the 1950s, when it was a popular dish served in American households. The word "divan" refers to a type of sofa or couch, and in the culinary world, it is used to describe a dish that is layered with ingredients. In this case, the layers consist of rice, broccoli, and a creamy tuna sauce.

Ingredients

How to prepare

  1. Break the tuna into large pieces using a fork.
  2. In a large skillet, combine the soup, cheese, pepper, and milk.
  3. Add the tuna and heat thoroughly.
  4. Stir in the butter and parsley into the rice, tossing lightly.
  5. To serve, spoon the broccoli on top of the hot rice and then top it with the tuna mixture.

Variations

  • Substitute the canned tuna with cooked chicken or turkey for a different flavor.
  • Use different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or Swiss, for a unique twist.
  • Add in some diced onions or bell peppers for extra flavor and texture.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the water from the canned tuna before adding it to the skillet.

- Thaw and cook the broccoli spears according to package instructions before adding them to the dish.

- For added flavor, you can sprinkle some breadcrumbs on top of the dish before baking it in the oven.

Serving Suggestions

Tuna and Rice Divan can be served as a main dish on its own, or paired with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to cook the rice according to package instructions to ensure it is fluffy and tender.

- When heating the tuna mixture, stir frequently to prevent it from sticking to the skillet.

- Allow the dish to cool slightly before serving to prevent burns.

Ingredient Substitutions

Use fresh broccoli florets instead of frozen broccoli spears for a crispier texture.

- Substitute the condensed cream of celery soup with cream of mushroom or cream of chicken soup for a different flavor profile.

- Swap out the margarine for butter or olive oil for a richer taste.

Make Ahead Tips

Tuna and Rice Divan can be assembled ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Simply cover the dish with foil and bake it in the oven when you are ready to serve.

Presentation Ideas

For a more elegant presentation, sprinkle some chopped parsley or grated Parmesan cheese on top of the dish before serving. You can also garnish with lemon wedges for a pop of color.

Pairing Recommendations

Tuna and Rice Divan pairs well with a crisp white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc. For a non-alcoholic option, try serving it with a glass of iced tea or lemonade.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Leftover Tuna and Rice Divan can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply place the dish in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

350

Carbohydrates

- Total Carbohydrates: 35g

- Dietary Fiber: 3g

- Sugars: 2g

Fats

- Total Fat: 14g

- Saturated Fat: 7g

- Trans Fat: 0g

Proteins

- Protein: 20g

Vitamins and minerals

Vitamin A: 15%

- Vitamin C: 60%

- Calcium: 20%

- Iron: 10%

Alergens

Contains dairy (cheese and milk)

- Contains fish (tuna)

Summary

Tuna and Rice Divan is a balanced meal that provides a good source of protein, carbohydrates, and essential vitamins and minerals. It is a satisfying dish that can be enjoyed by the whole family.

Summary

Tuna and Rice Divan is a delicious and comforting dish that is perfect for a quick and easy weeknight meal. With layers of rice, broccoli, and a creamy tuna sauce, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy!

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Tuna and Rice Divan. It was many years ago, back when I was just a young girl living in a small town. My family didn't have much money, so we had to make do with what we had. That meant getting creative in the kitchen and finding ways to stretch our meals.

One day, I was rummaging through my mother's old cookbook, looking for something new to try. I came across a worn and tattered page with a recipe for Tuna and Rice Divan. I had never heard of such a dish before, but the ingredients seemed simple enough - canned tuna, cooked rice, cream of mushroom soup, and a few other odds and ends.

I decided to give it a try, and to my surprise, it turned out to be delicious. The creamy sauce, the tender tuna, and the fluffy rice all came together in a perfect harmony of flavors. I knew that I had stumbled upon something special, something that would become a staple in my cooking repertoire for years to come.

As I grew older and honed my cooking skills, I began to experiment with the recipe, adding my own twist here and there. I would sometimes swap out the canned tuna for fresh fish that my father had caught on his fishing trips. Other times, I would add in some vegetables or spices to give it a little extra kick.

But no matter how I changed it up, the basic recipe for Tuna and Rice Divan remained the same. It was a simple, comforting dish that never failed to satisfy.

Over the years, I shared the recipe with friends and family members, passing it down from generation to generation. Each person who tasted it would put their own spin on it, making it their own. And that's the beauty of cooking - it's a creative and ever-evolving process.

Now, as I sit here in my kitchen, surrounded by the familiar sights and smells of home, I can't help but feel grateful for that fateful day when I stumbled upon the recipe for Tuna and Rice Divan. It has brought me joy, comfort, and a sense of connection to my past.

And so, I continue to cook and create, always on the lookout for new recipes to discover and share with others. But no matter how many dishes I try, Tuna and Rice Divan will always hold a special place in my heart. It's not just a recipe - it's a memory, a tradition, a piece of who I am.

So the next time you're in the mood for a simple and delicious meal, why not give Tuna and Rice Divan a try? Who knows, maybe it will become a favorite in your family as well.

Categories

| American Recipes | Broccoli Recipes | Canned Celery Soup Recipes | Cheddar Recipes | Main Dish Seafood Recipes | Rice Recipes | Tuna Recipes |

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