Tuna Pizza Recipe: Quick & Delicious Guide!

Introduction

Tuna pizza might just become your new favorite go-to meal! Simple to make and delightful to eat, it offers a refreshing twist on the classic pizza that we all love. Whether you choose homemade dough or grab something ready-made from the store, the result is always delicious. 

In this guide, we will explore not just one, but several exciting ways to prepare tuna pizza recipes, perfect for any taste or occasion. Ready to dive into the world of cheesy, tuna-topped goodness? Let’s get started!

What is Tuna Pizza?

Tuna pizza is a savory twist on the traditional pizza, swapping out the usual toppings for flaked tuna, often paired with other fresh ingredients. 

Originating from innovative home cooks and adventurous pizzerias, this dish combines the mild, meaty flavor of tuna with the rich, comforting base of pizza. 

It’s a fantastic alternative for those looking to experiment beyond pepperoni or margarita, offering a delightful blend of sea and land on your palate.

Nutrition in Tuna Pizza

Tuna is not just tasty; it’s also packed with nutrients that make tuna pizza a healthier choice. It’s a great source of high-quality protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. 

Depending on the toppings you choose, such as fresh vegetables or low-fat cheese, your tuna pizza can also be a good source of dietary fiber and calcium. 

Each slice delivers a satisfying meal that fuels your body with a balanced mix of proteins, fats, and carbs, making it a nutritious option for any meal of the day.

Here’s a simple table that outlines the nutritional content typically found in a slice of tuna pizza, making it easy to understand at a glance:

Nutrient	Amount per Slice	Benefits
Calories	250-300	Provides energy
Protein	15-20 g	Supports muscle repair and growth
Fat	10-15 g	Provides essential fatty acids
Saturated Fat	4-5 g	–
Carbohydrates	20-25 g	Fuels the body and brain
Fiber	2-3 g	Aids digestion
Sodium	400-500 mg	–
Omega-3 Fatty Acids	0.5-1 g	Supports heart and brain health

Tuna Pizza Ingredients

Making a mouth-watering tuna pizza starts with gathering the right ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Pizza dough: You can make your own using flour, water, yeast, and a pinch of salt, or opt for a pre-made version from your local store. For a lighter option, try a tortilla or a flatbread base.
• Tuna: Use canned tuna in oil or water, drained and flaked. Fresh tuna steaks, grilled and flaked, also work wonderfully for a richer flavor.
• Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice for its excellent reliability. For a tangier taste, consider adding some feta or goat cheese.
• Sauce: A simple tomato sauce works best. You can make it from scratch with crushed tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and a drizzle of olive oil, or use a quality store-bought marinara sauce.
• Vegetables: Onions, bell peppers, and olives add crunch and flavor. You can also include artichokes or capers for an extra zing.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and Italian herbs like oregano and basil are essential for enhancing the overall flavor of your pizza.

Tuna Pizza Sauce Recipe

A good sauce is crucial for the perfect tuna pizza. Here’s a quick and easy recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 can (15 oz) of crushed tomatoes
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• Salt and pepper to taste
• A pinch of dried oregano and basil

Instructions:

1. Warm up the olive oil in a pan on medium heat. Then, toss in the chopped garlic and cook until it smells nice, which should take about a minute.
2. Add the crushed tomatoes to the pan along with the sugar, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
3. Simmer the sauce for 15-20 minutes, or until it thickens slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
4. Add the herbs toward the end of cooking for a fresh, vibrant flavor.

This homemade tomato sauce will bring a fresh, zesty foundation to your tuna pizza, perfectly complementing the subtle taste of tuna and the richness of the cheese.

Tuna Pizza Dough Recipe

Making your own pizza dough may sound daunting, but it’s surprisingly simple and incredibly rewarding. Here’s a straightforward recipe to get a delicious, crispy base for your tuna pizza:

Ingredients:

• 2 cups all-purpose flour
• 3/4 cup warm water
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1 packet (2 1/4 teaspoons) active dry yeast
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 teaspoon salt

Instructions:

1. Activate the yeast: In a small bowl, mix the sugar into warm water until it dissolves. Then, scatter the yeast on top of the water and leave it for about 5 minutes, or until the mixture becomes bubbly.
2. Mix the ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the flour and salt. Add the frothy yeast mixture and olive oil. Stir until the mixture begins to form a dough.
3. Knead the dough: Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead for about 10 minutes, until smooth and elastic. If the dough feels too sticky, add a bit more flour to it.
4. Let it rise: Place the dough in a greased bowl, cover it with a damp cloth, and let it rise in a warm place for about 1 hour, or until it has doubled in size.
5. Shape the dough: Punch down the risen dough and turn it out onto a floured surface. Divide it if making multiple pizzas, or leave it whole for a single large pizza. Roll the dough into the shape and thickness you want.

This homemade dough provides a fresh, fluffy base that crisps up beautifully in the oven, perfect for holding all the delicious toppings of your tuna pizza. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or a first-timer, this recipe will make you feel like a true pizzaiolo!

Tuna Pizza Toppings

When it comes to decorating your tuna pizza, the toppings you choose can transform it from simple to spectacular. Here are some topping ideas that pair wonderfully with the subtle flavor of tuna, creating a harmonious and delicious pizza:

Classic Toppings:

• Red onions: Thinly sliced for a bit of sharpness and color.
• Bell peppers: Choose a mix of colors for a sweet, vibrant topping.
• Black olives: These add a nice briny contrast to the mildness of the tuna.
• Cherry tomatoes: Halved or whole, they add freshness and a juicy burst.
• Capers: For a hint of tangy saltiness that complements the tuna beautifully.

Gourmet Toppings:

• Artichoke hearts: Marinated and sliced, these add a tender, slightly tangy flavor.
• Spinach: A few leaves can add a fresh, earthy note.
• Sun-dried tomatoes: These provide an intense tomato flavor that’s both sweet and tart.
• Arugula: Added after baking, it offers a peppery freshness that cuts through the richness.
• Anchovies: For those who love a deeper ocean flavor, anchovies can be a bold addition.

Cheese Options:

• Mozzarella: A pizza classic, it melts beautifully and has a mild taste that doesn’t overpower the tuna.
• Feta or Goat Cheese: Either option brings a tangy sharpness that enhances the other flavors.

Seasonings:

• Dried oregano and basil: Sprinkle these herbs over the top before baking for added Italian flair.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For a hint of heat.
• A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil: Finish with this right before serving for added richness and a smooth mouthfeel.

Assembling your pizza with these toppings will not only enhance the taste but also create a visually appealing dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat. Enjoy crafting your perfect tuna pizza with combinations that speak to your palate!

Tuna Pizza Recipe

Ready to put it all together and bake your very own tuna pizza? This section will guide you through a straightforward recipe to create a delightful meal that’s bound to impress. Here’s how you can make a classic tuna pizza:

Ingredients:

• 1 pizza dough (use the recipe from Section VI or a premade base)
• 1/2 cup homemade tomato sauce (recipe from Section V)
• 1 can of tuna, drained and flaked
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/2 bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup black olives, sliced
• 2 tablespoons capers
• A sprinkle of dried oregano
• A drizzle of olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to the highest setting, typically between 450-500°F (230-260°C). If you have a pizza stone, place it in the oven to heat as well.
2. Prepare the dough: Roll out your pizza dough on a floured surface to your desired thickness, then transfer it onto a pizza peel or an inverted baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Apply the sauce: Spread the tomato sauce evenly over the surface of the dough, leaving a small border around the edges of the crust.
4. Add the tuna and toppings: Evenly distribute the flaked tuna over the sauce. Follow with mozzarella cheese, red onions, bell peppers, black olives, and capers. Sprinkle with oregano, and season with a little salt and pepper.
5. Drizzle with olive oil: Just before baking, give your pizza a good drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor and richness.
6. Bake the pizza: Slide the pizza onto your preheated pizza stone or baking sheet. Bake for 10-15 minutes, or until the crust turns golden and the cheese bubbles and starts to brown slightly.
7. Serving: Remove the pizza from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, then slice and serve hot.

This easy-to-follow recipe ensures a delicious tuna pizza that balances the hearty flavors of the sea with the comforting familiarity of pizza. Whether for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this pizza is sure to be a hit!

Tuna Pizza Recipe Italian Style

Embrace the essence of Italy with this Italian-style tuna pizza, which focuses on simplicity and quality ingredients. Here’s how to make it:

Ingredients:

• 1 pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce, preferably made from San Marzano tomatoes
• 1 can of quality Italian tuna in olive oil, drained
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, sliced
• A handful of fresh basil leaves
• A dash of sea salt and some freshly ground black pepper
• A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 500°F (260°C) with a pizza stone inside.
2. Prepare the base: Roll out the dough to a thin circle and place it on a pizza peel dusted with flour.
3. Add the sauce and toppings: Spread the tomato sauce thinly, then scatter chunks of drained tuna evenly over the sauce. Distribute slices of fresh mozzarella around the pizza.
4. Bake: Slide the pizza onto the hot stone and bake for about 10-12 minutes until the crust is crispy and the cheese is bubbling.
5. Finish and serve: Once out of the oven, add fresh basil, a sprinkle of sea salt, black pepper, and a generous drizzle of olive oil before serving.

This version captures the fresh, vibrant flavors typical of Italian cuisine, offering a crisp, deliciously aromatic pizza.

X. Tuna Melt Pizza Recipe

For a cozy twist on the traditional tuna melt sandwich, try this tuna melt pizza recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 pizza dough (recipe from Section VI)
• 1/2 cup creamy Alfredo sauce
• 1 can of tuna, drained and flaked
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1 small red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup pickled jalapeños (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F (230°C).
2. Prepare the dough: Stretch out your pizza dough on a baking sheet.
3. Layer the ingredients: Spread the Alfredo sauce over the dough, then evenly distribute the tuna, sliced onion, and jalapeños if using.
4. Cheese it up: Cover with a generous layer of sharp cheddar cheese.
5. Bake: Place in the oven and bake for 12-15 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
6. Serve: Let it cool slightly, then slice and enjoy the melty goodness.

This recipe combines the heartiness of a tuna melt with the satisfying crunch of a pizza, perfect for a filling meal.

Tuna Pizza Recipe by Jamie Oliver

Jamie Oliver’s approach to tuna pizza incorporates fresh, Mediterranean-inspired ingredients for a light and flavorful meal. Here’s how you can replicate it:

Ingredients:

• 1 pizza dough (homemade or store-bought)
• 1/2 cup passata (strained tomatoes)
• 1 can of quality tuna in olive oil, lightly drained
• A handful of black olives, pitted and halved
• 2 tablespoons capers
• A few anchovy fillets (optional)
• 1/2 cup mozzarella, torn into small pieces
• Fresh herbs such as parsley or basil, for garnish

Instructions:

1. Prepare your oven: Preheat to its highest temperature, typically around 500°F (260°C), with a pizza stone or heavy baking tray inside.
2. Assemble the pizza: Spread the passata over the rolled-out dough. Evenly distribute the tuna, olives, capers, and anchovies if using.
3. Add cheese and bake: Sprinkle mozzarella over the top and bake for 10-15 minutes until the crust is golden and the cheese has melted.
4. Finish with freshness: Once baked, scatter over fresh herbs, and drizzle with a little extra olive oil.

Jamie Oliver’s recipe is perfect for those who love bold flavors and fresh, aromatic toppings, creating a pizza that’s both delicious and visually appealing.

Conclusion

We hope this guide inspires you to explore the delicious possibilities of tuna pizza, from the traditional to the inventive. Whether you’re crafting the dough from scratch, experimenting with Italian-style toppings, or enjoying the hearty comfort of a tuna melt pizza, there’s a version for every taste and occasion. 

Dive into these recipes and make each one your own by adding a personal twist. Happy cooking, and enjoy your homemade tuna pizza, a dish that promises to satisfy your cravings and bring a splash of culinary creativity to your kitchen table!

FAQs

Is tuna a good pizza topping?

Absolutely! Tuna is a fantastic topping for pizza if you enjoy its mild, savory flavor. It pairs well with a variety of ingredients, including cheese, vegetables, and different sauces, offering a nutritious and delicious twist on traditional pizza.

Do Italians put tuna in pizza?

Yes, Italians do use tuna as a pizza topping. It’s more common in certain regions and can be found in various Italian pizzerias. Tuna is often used in Italian cooking, and it adds a unique flavor profile that complements the fresh ingredients typically found on Italian pizzas.

What is tuna pizza made of?

Tuna pizza typically consists of a pizza dough base topped with tomato sauce or sometimes a white sauce, flaked tuna, cheese (like mozzarella, feta, or goat cheese), and a variety of other toppings such as onions, peppers, and olives. Herbs and spices like oregano and basil may also be added for extra flavor.

Is tuna pizza authentic?

While tuna pizza might not be as traditional as Margherita or Pepperoni, it is a legitimate style of pizza that you can find in many parts of the world, including Italy. It’s a popular choice for those looking for something a bit different from the usual pizza toppings.

What is tuna pizza called?

Tuna pizza doesn’t have a specific name and is generally called “tuna pizza” or “pizza al tonno” in Italian. The name might vary slightly depending on the region and the specific style of the pizzeria, but these are the most commonly used terms.