Tuna Caper Spread

Tuna Caper Spread Recipe - Delicious and Flavorful Spread

| Servings: 6

Introduction

Tuna Caper Spread is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served as an appetizer or a light lunch. The combination of tuna, capers, and cream cheese creates a creamy and flavorful spread that is perfect for spreading on crackers or bread.

History

The origins of Tuna Caper Spread are not well-documented, but it is believed to have originated in Mediterranean cuisine. The combination of tuna and capers is a classic pairing in Italian and French cooking, and the addition of cream cheese adds a creamy texture to the spread.

Ingredients

1 can (6 oz or 170 g) of chunk light tuna in water, drained [1]
4 oz (113 g) of reduced-fat cream cheese (0.5 cup)
1 tbsp of extra-virgin olive oil
2 tsp of lemon juice
0.13 tsp of cayenne pepper, or more to taste
3 tbsp of rinsed and chopped capers
2 tbsp of chopped fresh parsley
1.5 tsp of chopped fresh thyme or 0.5 tsp of dried thyme leaves

How to prepare

In a food processor, combine tuna, cream cheese, oil, lemon juice, and cayenne. Process until smooth.
Transfer the mixture to a serving bowl and stir in capers, parsley, and thyme.
Cover the bowl and refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Variations

Add chopped olives or sun-dried tomatoes for extra flavor.
Substitute Greek yogurt for cream cheese for a lighter version of the spread.
Mix in some chopped fresh herbs, such as dill or chives, for a different flavor profile.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the tuna well before using it in the recipe to avoid a watery spread.

- Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to suit your taste preferences. You can also add other spices or herbs to customize the flavor of the spread.

- For a smoother texture, you can blend the mixture in a food processor for a longer period of time.

- Serve the spread with a variety of accompaniments, such as crackers, bread, or vegetable sticks.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Tuna Caper Spread on crackers, toasted bread, or vegetable sticks for a delicious appetizer or light lunch.

Cooking Techniques

The key to making a smooth and creamy Tuna Caper Spread is to blend the ingredients well in a food processor until they are fully combined.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you don't have capers on hand, you can substitute chopped pickles or green olives for a similar briny flavor.

Make Ahead Tips

Tuna Caper Spread can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Just be sure to cover the bowl tightly to prevent the spread from drying out.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Tuna Caper Spread with a sprinkle of chopped parsley or a drizzle of olive oil for an elegant presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Serve Tuna Caper Spread with a crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, for a refreshing and complementary pairing.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Tuna Caper Spread in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, let the spread come to room temperature before serving.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tuna Caper Spread contains approximately 120 calories.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tuna Caper Spread contains approximately 2 grams of carbohydrates.

Fats

Each serving of Tuna Caper Spread contains approximately 8 grams of fat.

Proteins

Each serving of Tuna Caper Spread contains approximately 10 grams of protein.

Vitamins and minerals

Tuna is a good source of vitamins and minerals, including vitamin D, vitamin B12, and selenium.

Alergens

This recipe contains dairy (cream cheese) and fish (tuna), which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Tuna Caper Spread is a nutritious dish that is high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It is a good source of vitamins and minerals, making it a healthy choice for a snack or light meal.

Summary

Tuna Caper Spread is a delicious and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for serving as an appetizer or light lunch. With its creamy texture and flavorful combination of tuna, capers, and cream cheese, this spread is sure to be a hit with your family and friends.

How did I get this recipe?

The moment I discovered this recipe is a cherished memory. It was a hot summer day, and I had invited my dear friend Margaret over for a little luncheon. As we sat in my cozy kitchen, sipping on iced tea and catching up on the latest gossip, Margaret suddenly suggested that we try making something new for our meal that day.

She rummaged through my pantry and found a can of tuna, some capers, and a few other ingredients. With a mischievous twinkle in her eye, she declared that we were going to make a Tuna Caper Spread. I had never heard of such a dish before, but I trusted Margaret's culinary instincts, so I eagerly agreed to give it a try.

As we worked together in the kitchen, chopping, mixing, and tasting, I couldn't help but marvel at the way Margaret effortlessly combined flavors and textures to create something truly delicious. She explained that she had learned the recipe from her Italian grandmother, who had passed it down through the generations. I was intrigued by the story behind the dish and couldn't wait to taste the final result.

Finally, after much anticipation, we sat down at the table and spread the Tuna Caper Spread on slices of crusty bread. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a culinary paradise. The salty tang of the capers blended perfectly with the creamy tuna, creating a flavor sensation that was unlike anything I had ever tasted before.

From that moment on, the Tuna Caper Spread became a staple in my kitchen. I made it for family gatherings, potlucks, and intimate dinners with friends. Each time I prepared the dish, I thought back to that fateful day with Margaret and smiled at the memory of how we had stumbled upon such a wonderful recipe.

Over the years, I have tweaked the recipe to suit my own tastes, adding a pinch of this and a dash of that to make it uniquely mine. But the core of the dish remains the same, a testament to the enduring power of friendship and shared culinary experiences.

Now, as I stand in my kitchen, surrounded by the tantalizing aroma of the Tuna Caper Spread baking in the oven, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for all the wonderful people and recipes that have enriched my life. Each dish tells a story, a memory of a moment shared with loved ones, and I am grateful for each and every one.

So, as I take the Tuna Caper Spread out of the oven and prepare to serve it to my family, I offer a silent thanks to Margaret and her grandmother for introducing me to this delightful recipe. It may have started as a simple lunchtime experiment, but it has since become a beloved tradition in my home, a reminder of the power of good food and great company. And for that, I am truly grateful.