Tuna with onion and cherry tomatoes
Delicious tuna recipe with onions and cherry tomatoes
If you're looking for a simple yet flavorful recipe, tuna with onions and cherry tomatoes is the perfect choice. This dish is not only tasty but also quick to prepare, making it ideal for a family dinner or a meal with friends. Additionally, red wine adds a touch of elegance, transforming an everyday recipe into a true feast.
Preparation time: 15 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 kg white onions
- 1 kg red onions
- 20 cherry tomatoes
- 1 glass of red wine
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 10 slices of fresh tuna (preferably 100-150 g each)
- Flour for dusting the fish
- Olive oil for cooking
A bit of history:
Tuna is a fish with a rich culinary tradition, appreciated for centuries for its tender and protein-rich meat. The dish with onions and tomatoes is a classic combination, blending the sweetness of caramelized onions with the juiciness of tomatoes, resulting in a delicious sauce that coats the fish.
Preparing the ingredients:
1. Onions: Peel both types of onions (white and red), then wash them well. Slice them into julienne strips to create a flavorful base for your sauce.
2. Tomatoes: Wash the cherry tomatoes and cut them in half or into small cubes, depending on your preference. They will add a note of freshness and acidity to the dish.
3. Tuna: Ensure that the tuna slices are fresh. You can ask for advice from your local fishmonger to choose the best tuna slices.
Cooking steps:
1. Sauté the onions: In a large skillet, add a little olive oil and sauté the onions over low heat. Stir constantly to prevent sticking. Set your timer for 10-15 minutes until the onions become soft and translucent, releasing their flavors.
2. Add the tomatoes: Once the onions are well cooked, add the chopped cherry tomatoes and stir. Let them simmer together for a few minutes until the tomatoes release their juice.
3. Deglaze with wine: Pour the glass of red wine into the skillet, stirring well. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes until it reduces slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Preparing the tuna: In another bowl, dust the tuna slices with flour, ensuring they are evenly coated. Heat a little oil in the skillet and fry the fish for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden. Don’t worry if it’s not completely cooked; it will continue to cook in the sauce.
5. Combining the ingredients: Place the fried tuna slices in the skillet with the onions and tomatoes. Cover them well with the sauce and let them simmer on low heat for 5-7 minutes. This is the stage where the flavors blend perfectly!
6. Serving: Serve the dish warm, ideally alongside a portion of polenta. The polenta adds a delicious contrast, and its soft texture perfectly complements the tuna and sauce.
Tips and practical advice:
- For a more intense flavor: Try adding some herbs like basil or oregano to the onion and tomato sauce.
- Vegetable variation: If you want to add more vegetables, you can include diced bell peppers or zucchini, which will cook quickly alongside the onions.
- Wine alternative: If you prefer to avoid alcohol, you can use a glass of vegetable broth or tomato juice, which will add flavor, though with a slightly different note.
Nutritional benefits:
Tuna is an excellent source of high-quality protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and B vitamins, benefiting heart and brain health. Onions and tomatoes provide a significant amount of antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals, contributing to a balanced diet.
Frequently asked questions:
- Can I use canned tuna? Although fresh tuna provides the best texture and flavor, you can use canned tuna added at the end to avoid overcooking.
- How can I modify the recipe to make it spicier? Add a few chili flakes while cooking the onions to achieve a dish with a bit of a kick.
- Can I keep leftovers? Sure! The dish keeps well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Reheat it in the microwave before serving.
This tuna recipe with onions and cherry tomatoes is not just a delight but also a perfect way to bring together the simple flavors of fresh ingredients. I hope you try it and enjoy it with your loved ones! Bon appétit!
Ingredients: 1 kg of white onions, 1 kg of red onions, 20 red cherry tomatoes (approximately), 1 glass of red wine, salt, pepper, 10 slices of fresh tuna (if large, take one per person), flour
