These lemony Tuna Patties are the protein-rich, satisfying, and a economical lunch you’ll turn to again and again. They have a beautifully browned crisp exterior and flaky, tender interior, featuring well seasoned flavor throughout.

Humble canned tuna patties (AKA “tuna cakes”) are the dish to make when you don’t know what to make and don’t have many ingredients on hand.

They are near effortless, adaptable, inexpensive, and yet full of flavor. These easily surpass expectations, far beyond what we have in mind when we think of canned tuna.

Plus they pair well with a wide variety of things. Toast and cheddar (I love them with sourdough), buns, orzo and other pastas, lettuce wraps, rice, mashed potatoes, cucumber salad, green salad, creamy coleslaw, or fries (like the fish and chips duo).

I recommend planning on two per person for a heartier more filling serving, but if you have several sides to pair with it then one will suffice. Serve them warm for the ideal texture and top with a spread like tzatziki for yet another upgrade if you’d like.

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