My love for tuna is well-documented. And when I think tuna, of course I think Bumble Bee, the brand that was always in the pantry when I was growing up. While I adore a tuna salad sandwich for lunch as much as anyone, I also know that this healthy, lean source of protein is an incredibly versatile ingredient that can star in all kinds of dishes, from salads to main courses.
At this time of year, when everyone is looking for light, refreshing meals, Bumble Bee Tuna is more useful than ever. And what about all those summer cookouts and picnics to which you volunteered to bring a dish? There is no more economical and healthy way to feed a hungry crowd.
Available in both pouches and cans, Bumble Bee Prime Fillet Gourmet Flavors Albacore Tuna combines the highest quality albacore tuna with restaurant-inspired ingredients from different global cuisines to allow you to feature tuna in new and exciting ways. The Bumble Bee Prime Fillet Albacore Tuna with Sundried Tomatoes & Olive Oil, for example, would be amazing in an Italian or Mediterranean-inspired pasta dish.
Today, however, I am going to share a Southwestern-inpired recipe using two of the other Prime Fillet flavors, Bumble Bee Prime Fillet Albacore Tuna with Jalapeños & Olive Oil and Bumble Bee Prime Fillet Albacore Tuna with Chipotle & Olive Oil. Both of these flavors add some exciting spice and smokiness to my lunchtime staple.
The Mexican and Southwestern flavors of jalapeño and chipotle in the Bumble Bee Prime Fillet inspired me to combine tuna with ingredients that I had not considered before, ingredients like rice, black beans, corn, tomato and cilantro. The results astounded me. The lime juice brings brightness and acidity, the chipotles in adobo add smokiness and a hint of heat and the tomatoes and corn contribute their sweetness to every bite. This dish is moist, flavorful and beautiful to look it with hues of purple, red, yellow and green from all the fresh vegetables and herbs.
What I love about this recipe is that it is incredibly nutritious — packed with protein and vegetables; it is gluten and dairy-free; and it feeds a crowd for under $15. I did not set out to create a budget-friendly recipe. But when I went to the store to buy all the ingredients, I could not believe how low my bill was, especially given that it could easily be a complete, one-dish meal for a family of four. Whoever says it is expensive to eat healthy, should try this winning combination!
The combination of bright colors, great taste, nutrition and low cost makes this Tuna with Rice, Corn and Black Beans the perfect dish to bring to your neighbor’s barbecue, the team potluck, or whatever fun outdoor gathering you have planned for this summer. And with no mayo or other ingredients that spoil easily, you can feel confident serving this dish at room temperature. Guess what I’m bringing to feed myself and the other ravenous parents at JR’s next endless swim meet?
What is your favorite recipe using Bumble Bee Tuna? Have you ever tried tuna with rice? Pasta? What’s holding you back?
- 2 5 oz cans Bumblebee Prime Fillet Albacore Tuna with Jalapeños & Olive Oil OR Chipotle & Olive Oil
- 1 15 oz can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 red onion, diced
- 1 pint grape tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup cooked corn kernels (thawed if using frozen)
- 1½ cups cooked white rice
- ¼ cup freshly squeezed lime juice
- ¼ extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 7 oz. can chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
- 1 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper
- In a large bowl combine tuna, beans, onion, tomatoes and corn and stir to combine
- If using leftover rice, heat in the microwave. If using freshly cooked rice, add while still warm.
- In a smaller bowl, whisk together lime juice and two teaspoons sauce from the can of chipotle peppers in adobo.
- Dice one chipotle pepper and add it to the dressing. Reserve the rest of the can.
- Whisk in olive oil to create an emusion.
- While rice is still warm, pour dressing over the ingredients in the bowl. Add chopped cilantro and toss to combine.
- Season well with salt and pepper.
- Taste and adjust seasoning, adding more lime juice if necessary.
- Can be made ahead. Allow to come to room temperature prior to serving.
I was selected for this opportunity as a member of Clever Girls and the content and opinions expressed here are all my own.
