Portuguese Tuna: Nutrition, Serving Ideas and Easy Recipes

Tinned tuna is one of the most versatile pantry foods: quick to serve, easy to combine with vegetables, bread, rice or pasta, and available in several styles including olive oil and brine.

Is tuna nutritious?

Tuna is a useful source of protein and also provides nutrients such as vitamin B12 and selenium. Exact nutrition varies by species and preparation, so check the product label when comparing tins.

Why choose tuna in olive oil?

Tuna packed in olive oil usually has a richer flavour and softer texture than tuna packed in water or brine. The oil can also be used in salads, pasta or on bread.

Three easy tuna ideas

Tuna salad

Combine tuna with tomatoes, cucumber, boiled egg, olives and a little olive oil.

Tuna pasta

Warm garlic and tomatoes in a pan, add tuna, then toss with cooked pasta and parsley.

Tuna toast

Mix tuna with lemon juice and a little yoghurt or mayonnaise, then serve on toasted bread with onion or herbs.

How to choose good canned tuna

Look at the species, ingredients, oil or brine used, origin and nutrition panel. A short ingredient list can make it easier to understand exactly what you are buying.

Explore our tuna selection and other Portuguese canned seafood.

Explore the wider context in our complete guide to Portuguese products, including sardines, tuna, olive oil, coffee, brands and Portuguese food regions.