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Tuna Meatballs in Spanish Tomato Sauce


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  • Author: Mari
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Description

A Mediterranean twist on classic meatballs, these tender and flavorful tuna meatballs are simmered in a rich, garlicky Spanish-style tomato sauce. Perfect for serving with crusty bread or over rice.


Ingredients

Units Scale

For the Tuna Meatballs:

  • 2 cans (6 oz each) tuna, drained and flaked
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (for frying)

For the Spanish Tomato Sauce:

 

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon sugar
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  • Prepare the meatballs: In a bowl, mix flaked tuna, breadcrumbs, egg, garlic, parsley, paprika, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Form into small balls.
  • Fry the meatballs: Heat olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Lightly fry the tuna meatballs until golden brown on all sides. Remove and set aside.
  • Make the sauce: In the same pan, add olive oil and sauté the onion until soft. Add garlic, paprika, cumin, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
  • Simmer the sauce: Pour in crushed tomatoes, white wine (if using), sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Cook the meatballs: Return the tuna meatballs to the sauce and cook for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

 

  • Garnish & serve: Sprinkle with fresh chives and serve warm with bread or rice.

Notes

  • Substitute breadcrumbs with almond flour for a low-carb version.
  • For a deeper flavor, let the meatballs simmer in the sauce for an extra 5 minutes.

 

  • Pairs well with roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Simmering
  • Cuisine: Spanish, Mediterranean