Savory Zucchini Tuna Patties: A Healthy and Delicious Meal

Have you ever struggled to find a meal that is both nutritious and easy to make? Savory Zucchini Tuna Patties are the perfect solution. They are packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, making them a balanced meal or snack that can be enjoyed at any time of the day.

These tuna patties are crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and bursting with flavor. Whether you need a quick lunch, a high-protein snack, or a light dinner, this recipe delivers. Paired with a creamy lemon yogurt sauce, they offer a perfect combination of savory and tangy flavors.

If you’re looking for a budget-friendly, easy-to-make dish that helps you incorporate more vegetables and lean protein into your diet, this is the recipe for you.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Make – Simple ingredients and minimal preparation time
• Healthy and Nutritious – High in protein, low in carbs, and full of vitamins
• Budget-Friendly – Uses affordable pantry staples
• Great for Meal Prep – Can be made ahead and stored for later
• Versatile – Serve them as a main dish, snack, or even in a sandwich

Ingredients for Savory Zucchini Tuna Patties

For the Patties

Ingredient	Quantity
Zucchini (grated and liquid squeezed out)	½ medium (100g)
Canned tuna, drained	1 can
Oats	2 tablespoons
Shredded cheese	2 tablespoons
Large egg	1
Garlic salt	¼ teaspoon
Dill	¼ teaspoon
Onion powder	¼ teaspoon
Fresh ground pepper	To taste

For the Lemon Yogurt Sauce

Ingredient	Quantity
Greek yogurt	2 tablespoons
Lemon juice	1 teaspoon
Dill	¼ teaspoon
Garlic salt	¼ teaspoon

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Zucchini

Grate the zucchini and place it in a clean kitchen towel. Squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Removing excess moisture helps the patties hold together and prevents them from becoming soggy.

2. Mix the Patties

In a large bowl, combine the grated zucchini, drained tuna, oats, shredded cheese, egg, garlic salt, dill, onion powder, and fresh ground pepper. Stir until all the ingredients are evenly mixed.

3. Form the Patties

Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties, about 2-3 inches in diameter. Press them firmly to ensure they hold together while cooking.

4. Cook the Patties

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat and lightly grease it with a small amount of oil. Place the patties in the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and fully cooked.

5. Prepare the Lemon Yogurt Sauce

In a small bowl, whisk together the Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, and garlic salt until smooth. This sauce adds a refreshing contrast to the rich, savory patties.

6. Serve and Enjoy

Serve the warm zucchini tuna patties with the lemon yogurt sauce on the side. Garnish with extra dill or a lemon wedge for added flavor.

Best Ways to Serve Zucchini Tuna Patties

• On Their Own – Enjoy as a protein-packed snack or appetizer
• With a Side Salad – Serve alongside fresh greens for a light and balanced meal
• In a Sandwich – Place in a whole-grain bun with lettuce and tomato for a satisfying lunch
• With Rice or Quinoa – Pair with a grain for a more filling dinner
• Topped with Avocado – Add a creamy and nutritious boost

Tips for Perfect Zucchini Tuna Patties

• Squeeze the Zucchini Well – Excess water can make the patties fall apart
• Use a Non-Stick Skillet – Prevents sticking and ensures an even golden crust
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan – Cook in batches to allow even cooking
• Adjust the Seasoning – Add more garlic salt, dill, or even a pinch of cayenne for extra flavor
• Let the Patties Cool Slightly – This helps them firm up and makes them easier to handle

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Skipping the Step of Squeezing the Zucchini – The patties won’t hold together properly
• Using Too Much Oil – They should be lightly pan-fried, not deep-fried
• Not Mixing the Ingredients Well – Ensures even distribution of flavors
• Cooking on High Heat – Medium heat allows them to cook through without burning
• Making Patties Too Large – Smaller patties cook more evenly and are easier to flip

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 Patties)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	~120
Protein	14g
Carbohydrates	6g
Fat	4g
Fiber	1g
Sodium	250mg

Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on ingredients used.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead of Canned?

Yes, you can use cooked and flaked fresh tuna instead of canned. Make sure it is well-cooked and drained before mixing it into the patties.

How Do I Store and Reheat Leftovers?

Store leftover patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, warm them in a skillet over medium heat or bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 5 minutes.

Can I Make These Patties Gluten-Free?

Yes, substitute the oats with gluten-free breadcrumbs or almond flour.

Can I Bake These Instead of Pan-Frying?

Yes, bake them at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway through for even crisping.

What Other Sauces Can I Use?

If you prefer a different sauce, try tzatziki, spicy mayo, or a light mustard dressing.

Can I Freeze These Patties?

Yes, freeze the uncooked patties on a baking sheet, then transfer them to a freezer bag once solid. Cook from frozen or thaw in the refrigerator before pan-frying.

Final Thoughts

Savory Zucchini Tuna Patties are a delicious, healthy, and easy-to-make meal that fits perfectly into any diet. Whether you need a quick lunch, a nutritious snack, or a light dinner, these patties are full of flavor and packed with protein. With their crispy edges, tender center, and refreshing lemon yogurt sauce, they are a satisfying dish that the whole family will love.

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