Are you craving a delicious, healthy, and incredibly easy dinner? Look no further! These Lemon Pepper Tuna Packets are the perfect solution for busy weeknights. This recipe requires minimal prep time and cleanup, making it a fantastic choice for even the most novice cooks. Get ready to enjoy a burst of fresh lemon and savory pepper with flaky tuna, all cooked to perfection in a foil packet. It's a healthy meal that's both satisfying and surprisingly elegant!
Ingredients: (Serves 2)
- 2 (5-ounce) tuna steaks, about 1 inch thick
- 1 lemon, thinly sliced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon lemon pepper seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna
Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels. This helps them sear properly and develop a nice crust. Season both sides generously with salt, black pepper, and lemon pepper seasoning.
Step 2: Assemble the Packets
Tear off two large sheets of heavy-duty aluminum foil. Place one lemon slice in the center of each foil sheet. Top each lemon slice with a tuna steak. Drizzle each steak with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Scatter half of the cherry tomatoes over each tuna steak.
Step 3: Seal and Bake
Fold the foil over the tuna, creating a sealed packet. Make sure to crimp the edges tightly to prevent any juices from escaping. Place the packets on a baking sheet. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes, or until the tuna is cooked through and flakes easily with a fork. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of your tuna steaks.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy!
Carefully remove the hot packets from the oven using oven mitts. Let them rest for a couple of minutes before opening. Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy the juicy, flavorful tuna!
Cooking Tips for Perfect Tuna Packets:
- Don't overcook the tuna! Overcooked tuna will be dry and tough. The internal temperature should reach 145°F (63°C).
- Adjust seasoning to taste. Feel free to add more lemon pepper seasoning, salt, or pepper according to your preference.
- Use high-quality tuna. The flavor of the tuna will significantly impact the overall taste of the dish.
- Add vegetables. Feel free to add other vegetables to your packets, such as asparagus, zucchini, or bell peppers.
Variations:
- Spicy Tuna Packets: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the seasoning for a spicy kick.
- Mediterranean Tuna Packets: Include Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Garlic Herb Tuna Packets: Add minced garlic and your favorite herbs, such as oregano or thyme, to the seasoning.
Nutritional Information (per serving):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: Around 35-40g
- Fat: Around 20-25g
These Lemon Pepper Tuna Packets are a simple yet impressive dish, perfect for a healthy and delicious weeknight meal. The ease of preparation and minimal cleanup makes this recipe a winner, whether you're a seasoned cook or just starting your culinary journey. Enjoy!