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