Tuna In Jars Lots More Interesting Than Cansff

For the moment, set aside any persnickety thoughts you may have about canned tuna. Admittedly, it was hard to get me to eat it. But recently I tasted imported tuna packed in a jar - definitely a food moment that has changed my perception of preserved tuna flavor and aroma.

To tell you the truth, one of our local restaurant owners confessed to having more of this product in the pantry at home than any other. I was intrigued, so I purchased several 7.8-ounce jars of Ortiz Tuna, imported from Spain. This tuna tastes incredible. It is cut from the more flavorful loin portion; the loins are cut into filets and packed, as whole as possible, with virgin olive oil in glass jars. Although pricier than Charlie tuna, the flavor and texture is worth it. It is a convenient source of protein that tastes clean and fresh - a good choice for a quick gourmet meal.

Here are three dinner suggestions for tasting the tuna, two 15-minute salads and the requisite tuna noodle casserole. Mediterranean Tuna Salad is quick, easy and fresh-tasting; it also makes a great sandwich filling in toasted pita halves. The Tuna Platter is a breeze to put together and makes a pretty, leisurely supper. (Cut the avocado just before you serve, or toss it with a teaspoon of lemon juice to prevent browning.)

Finally, I remember tuna noodle casserole as I was growing up, but it was a distant kin to this one: fresh sugar snaps and peas add spring flavor and contrasting texture, and the tuna stays in firm pieces when it is mixed with the pasta and garlicky, light white sauce. Definitely not kids' food, but they'll like it, too.

Source: Birmingham News