How to Make a Tuna Casserole My Mom's Way!
This comforting and budget-friendly Provençal Tuna Casserole is packed with the fragrant flavors of Provence with basil, garlic, tomatoes, zucchini, and bell peppers. An easy one-pot meal inspired by my Mom, it is simple Family French cooking, perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering. Enjoy the heartiness of rice paired with savory tuna and olives, bringing a taste of Provence to your kitchen. Bon Appetit!!!
Recipe Video
Recipe Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons Garlic Oilve Oil
- 2 ½ cups Onions, diced
- 2 cups Long Grain Rice
- 1 ½ tablespoons Fresh Garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Thyme
- 28 oz Peeled Italian Tomatoes, chopped 1 can
- 2 cups Chicken Broth
- 1 Red Bell Pepper, chopped into medium to small dices
- 1 Green Bell Pepper, chopped into medium to small dices
- 2 Zucchinis, diced
- 2 Yellow Squash, diced
- 12 oz each Solid White Tuna in Water, drained 2 cans
- 1 ½ tablespoons Harissa sauce or your favorite hot sauce
- 1 cup Kalamata Olives, pitted
- 1 cup Fresh Basil, chopped
- Salt and Pepper to taste
- Olive Oil, for drizzling
Recipe Instructions
- In a Dutch Oven, heat the Olive Oil, then start by sautéing the onions until they are golden and caramelized.
- Add the rice and sauté it for a few minutes until slightly toasted.
- Stir in the garlic and thyme, allowing the garlic to become fragrant.
- As soon as the garlic becomes fragrant immediately add chopped tomatoes and chicken broth to prevent the garlic from burning.
- Add the bell peppers and cook until slightly softened. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil.
- Add the zucchini, squash and harissa cover the pot, lowering the heat to a simmer. Cook for 35 minutes, making sure to stir occasionally to prevent the rice from sticking.
- Halfway through add your olives.
Final Stage - Add the Tuna
- After 35 minutes, strain your Tuna
- Add the tuna and mix gently to avoid breaking up the tuna.
- Stir in the basil at the end for a burst of fresh flavor.
Plate and Enjoy!
- Drizzle with Olive Oil before serving and Enjoy!
Pro-Tips
Pro Tip: Elevate the Flavor with Herbs and Spices
Adding fresh herbs like basil, along with a touch of harissa or hot sauce, gives the casserole a flavorful, Provencal twist. These bold flavors make the dish stand out by adding a subtle heat and freshness that balances the richness of the tuna and rice. Mix these items into the casserole toward the end ensuring the flavors remain bright and fragrant.Bonus Pro Tip: Customize Your Casserole
Don’t be afraid to put your spin on this recipe! Add extra vegetables like mushrooms or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. Try different cheeses on top — from Swiss to cheddar — for a unique flavor profile. And for those who love a bit of spice, increase the amount of harissa or add some red pepper flakes.Equipment - You can find the items below at our online store!
Nutrition
Calories: 346.13kcalCarbohydrates: 52.11gProtein: 16.93gFat: 8.32gSaturated Fat: 1.38gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1.35gMonounsaturated Fat: 4.95gCholesterol: 19.04mgSodium: 858.62mgPotassium: 768.6mgFiber: 4.8gSugar: 8.22gVitamin A: 1113.77IUVitamin C: 65.26mgCalcium: 101.8mgIron: 2.74mg