Tuna-Pickle Pitas

Tuna-Pickle Pitas Recipe - Easy and Nutritious Sandwich Option

| Servings: 4

Introduction

Tuna-Pickle Pitas are a delicious and easy-to-make meal that is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. The combination of tuna, pickles, and coleslaw dressing creates a flavorful and satisfying filling for the pita pockets. This recipe is a great option for those looking for a light and healthy meal that can be prepared in minutes.

History

Tuna-Pickle Pitas have been a popular dish for many years, with variations of the recipe found in different cultures around the world. The combination of tuna and pickles is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed by many for its unique flavor profile. The addition of coleslaw dressing and shredded carrots adds a refreshing and crunchy element to the dish.

Ingredients

1 can (6 oz (170 g)) of light tuna in water, drained
1 large carrot, shredded (1 cup)
2 tbsp of sweet pickle relish
1 tbsp of coleslaw dressing
0.25 tsp of celery seed, if desired
4 pita breads (6 inches in diameter), cut in half to form pockets
alfalfa sprouts, if desired

How to prepare

Combine all ingredients except pita breads and alfalfa sprouts.
Fill pita bread halves with tuna mixture.
Garnish with alfalfa sprouts.

Variations

Add diced celery or red onion to the tuna mixture for extra crunch and flavor.
Substitute Greek yogurt for the coleslaw dressing for a lighter and tangier filling.
Use whole wheat pita bread for added fiber and nutrients.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to drain the water from the can of tuna before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the filling from becoming too watery.

- Shred the carrot finely to ensure that it blends well with the other ingredients and adds a subtle sweetness to the dish.

- Adjust the amount of sweet pickle relish and coleslaw dressing to suit your taste preferences.

- For added flavor, sprinkle a little celery seed over the tuna mixture before filling the pita pockets.

Serving Suggestions

Tuna-Pickle Pitas can be served with a side salad or a cup of soup for a complete and satisfying meal. They can also be enjoyed on their own as a light and flavorful snack.

Cooking Techniques

Be sure to mix the tuna mixture well to ensure that all the ingredients are evenly distributed.

- Fill the pita pockets just before serving to prevent them from becoming soggy.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use canned salmon or chicken as a substitute for the tuna in this recipe.

- Dill pickles can be used in place of sweet pickle relish for a different flavor profile.

Make Ahead Tips

The tuna mixture can be prepared in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Fill the pita pockets just before serving to keep them fresh and crunchy.

Presentation Ideas

Garnish the Tuna-Pickle Pitas with a sprinkle of fresh herbs, such as parsley or dill, for a pop of color and flavor. Serve them on a platter with a side of fresh vegetables for a beautiful and appetizing presentation.

Pairing Recommendations

Tuna-Pickle Pitas pair well with a glass of iced tea or lemonade for a refreshing and satisfying meal. They can also be enjoyed with a side of fruit salad or chips for a complete and balanced lunch or dinner.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftover Tuna-Pickle Pitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To reheat, simply microwave the pita pockets for 30-60 seconds until warmed through.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

Each serving of Tuna-Pickle Pitas contains approximately 200 calories, making it a light and satisfying meal option.

Carbohydrates

Each serving of Tuna-Pickle Pitas contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates, making it a good source of energy for your body.

Fats

This recipe is low in fat, with each serving containing only 2 grams of fat.

Proteins

Tuna-Pickle Pitas are a good source of protein, with each serving providing around 15 grams of this essential nutrient.

Vitamins and minerals

This dish is rich in vitamins and minerals, particularly vitamin A from the shredded carrots and various minerals from the tuna.

Alergens

This recipe contains fish (tuna) and may not be suitable for those with seafood allergies.

Summary

Tuna-Pickle Pitas are a nutritious and balanced meal option that is low in fat and calories while providing a good amount of protein and carbohydrates.

Summary

Tuna-Pickle Pitas are a delicious and nutritious meal option that is easy to make and perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. With a flavorful and satisfying filling of tuna, pickles, and coleslaw dressing, these pita pockets are sure to become a new favorite in your meal rotation. Enjoy them on their own or with a side salad for a complete and balanced meal.

How did I get this recipe?

I remember the thrill of stumbling upon this recipe for Tuna-Pickle Pitas. It was during a trip to Greece many years ago, when I was just a young girl with a passion for exploring new cuisines and flavors. My family and I had decided to spend our summer vacation on the beautiful island of Crete, known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and of course, its delicious food.

One day, while wandering through the bustling markets of Chania, I came across a small, family-owned cafe tucked away in a quiet corner. The smell of freshly baked bread and sizzling spices wafted through the air, drawing me in like a magnet. Intrigued, I decided to step inside and see what culinary treasures awaited me.

As I sat down at a cozy table by the window, I was greeted by the warm smile of the cafe owner, a kind elderly woman with twinkling eyes and a contagious love for cooking. She introduced herself as Yaya Maria, and in broken English, she explained that she had been running the cafe for over fifty years, serving up traditional Greek dishes that had been passed down through generations.

Eager to learn more about her recipes, I asked Yaya Maria if she would be willing to teach me how to make one of her specialties. Without hesitation, she nodded and disappeared into the kitchen, returning moments later with a basket of fresh ingredients and a mischievous twinkle in her eye.

Together, we embarked on a culinary adventure, as Yaya Maria guided me through the process of making Tuna-Pickle Pitas. She showed me how to mix together canned tuna, diced pickles, creamy Greek yogurt, and a medley of spices, creating a flavorful filling that would soon be stuffed into warm, fluffy pitas.

As we worked side by side, Yaya Maria shared stories of her own childhood in Crete, where she had learned the art of cooking from her own grandmother. She spoke passionately about the importance of using fresh, high-quality ingredients, and the joy of sharing a delicious meal with loved ones.

After a whirlwind of chopping, mixing, and tasting, our Tuna-Pickle Pitas were finally ready. Yaya Maria carefully assembled each one, filling the pitas with generous scoops of the savory tuna mixture and topping them off with a sprinkle of fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon juice.

As we sat down to enjoy our culinary creation, I marveled at the magical combination of flavors and textures that danced on my taste buds. The tangy pickles mingled with the creamy yogurt, while the tender tuna melted in my mouth, all encased in the warm embrace of the soft pita bread.

From that moment on, Tuna-Pickle Pitas became a beloved recipe in my own culinary repertoire. I would often make them for family gatherings, potlucks, and picnics, always thinking fondly of Yaya Maria and the magical day we spent together in her charming cafe.

Years passed, and I continued to hone my skills in the kitchen, experimenting with new ingredients and techniques while staying true to the timeless traditions of Greek cuisine. But no matter how many new recipes I discovered, Tuna-Pickle Pitas would always hold a special place in my heart, reminding me of the joy of cooking, the beauty of sharing a meal with loved ones, and the magic of stumbling upon a delicious recipe in the most unexpected of places.