These flavorful tuna patties combine flaked Albacore tuna with crispy breadcrumbs, savory Parmesan cheese, a binding egg, finely diced red onion and garlic, fresh parsley, the distinctive spice blend of za’atar, and tangy feta cheese. The mixture is shaped into delectable cakes, pan-fried to golden perfection, and traditionally served with a refreshing side of tzatziki sauce. My kids even affectionately call them “tuna burgers”!

Why You’ll Love These Mediterranean Tuna Patties

Beyond their delicious taste, these tuna cakes offer a multitude of benefits, making them a staple in any busy kitchen:

• Quick and Easy: From prep to plate, these patties are ready in under 30 minutes, making them perfect for busy weeknights or a spontaneous healthy meal.
• Healthy and Nutritious: Packed with lean protein from tuna, beneficial omega-3s, and fresh vegetables and herbs, they are a wholesome addition to your diet. You can even swap mayonnaise for Greek yogurt to boost protein and reduce fat.
• Versatile Meal Option: Enjoy them for lunch, a light dinner paired with a crisp salad like this Lemon Arugula Salad, or even as a satisfying snack. They are fantastic as a burger alternative or served over a bed of greens.
• Family-Friendly: Their appealing “burger” shape and mild yet flavorful profile often make them a hit with children.
• Excellent for Meal Prep & Freezing: These patties hold up beautifully as leftovers. I often make a double batch and freeze half for later, ensuring a convenient, healthy meal is always within reach.

If you appreciate the simplicity and fresh flavors of this recipe, you might also enjoy these Cheesy Zucchini Fritters for a vegetarian twist. For more delicious tuna-based recipes, be sure to check out our Mediterranean Tuna Salad, Mediterranean Tuna Pasta Salad, Easy Tuna Noodle Casserole, or this vibrant Mediterranean Tuna and Chickpea Salad.

Essential Ingredients for Mediterranean Tuna Patties

The beauty of these tuna patties lies in their simple yet powerful ingredient list. For precise measurements and step-by-step instructions, please refer to the full recipe card below.

• Albacore Tuna: We recommend using two 5-ounce cans of albacore tuna, preferably chunk tuna in water, thoroughly drained. Albacore offers a firm texture and mild flavor that holds up well. You can also use solid tuna and flake it yourself with a fork.
• Cheeses: A delightful combination of crumbled feta cheese and grated Parmesan cheese adds a rich, salty, and tangy depth. Feel free to experiment with goat cheese for a creamier texture or use shredded mozzarella or sharp cheddar for a different flavor profile. If you’re dairy-free, you can omit the cheese entirely.
• Breadcrumbs: Panko breadcrumbs are our secret for achieving an extra crispy exterior and a lighter texture. Regular breadcrumbs work too, or opt for gluten-free breadcrumbs for a dietary modification.
• Eggs: Eggs act as the essential binding agent, holding the patties together and preventing them from crumbling during cooking.
• Lemon Juice and Zest: Fresh lemon is a cornerstone of Mediterranean flavors. The juice provides a bright acidity, while the zest contributes fragrant oils, elevating the overall taste of the tuna patties.
• Greek Yogurt or Mayonnaise: These ingredients add moisture and help bind the mixture. Greek yogurt is a fantastic healthy alternative, adding a creamy tang and extra protein. Mayonnaise provides a classic richness.
• Aromatics: Finely minced red onion and garlic create a foundational layer of savory flavor.
• Fresh Parsley: Chopped fresh parsley infuses the patties with a vibrant, herbaceous note.
• Za’atar: This traditional Middle Eastern spice blend is key to the Mediterranean character of these patties. Za’atar typically includes dried thyme, oregano, marjoram, sumac, and sesame seeds, offering an earthy, tangy, and nutty flavor. If you don’t have za’atar, excellent alternatives include paprika, Italian seasoning, Greek seasoning, or sumac.
• Dijon Mustard: A touch of Dijon adds a subtle sharpness and helps emulsify the mixture.
• Salt and Black Pepper: Essential for seasoning and balancing the flavors.

How to Make Perfect Mediterranean Tuna Patties

Creating these delicious tuna patties is straightforward. Follow these simple steps for a delightful meal:

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna

Begin by draining the canned tuna thoroughly. Place the drained tuna into a medium mixing bowl and use a fork to flake it apart. This ensures an even texture throughout the patties.

Step 2: Combine Wet and Dry Ingredients

Into the same mixing bowl with the flaked tuna, add the minced garlic, ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese, ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs, crumbled feta cheese, minced red onion, eggs, fresh lemon juice and zest, mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, za’atar, salt, black pepper, and chopped fresh parsley.

Step 3: Mix the Tuna Mixture

Using a spoon or your hands, thoroughly mix all the ingredients together in the large bowl until they are well combined. It’s important that everything is evenly distributed to ensure each patty is flavorful and holds its shape.

Next, prepare a shallow bowl by adding the remaining ¼ cup of Parmesan cheese and ½ cup of panko breadcrumbs. This will be used for breading the patties.

Step 4: Form the Tuna Cakes

Using your hands, take portions of the tuna mixture and form them into five uniform tuna cakes. Gently press them to ensure they are firm and hold their shape. Place the formed patties on a large platter as you continue to shape the remaining mixture.

Step 5: Bread Each Tuna Cake

Carefully take each formed tuna cake and press both sides into the breadcrumb and Parmesan mixture. Ensure an even coating on all sides, gently pressing the breadcrumbs into the patties so they adhere well. This step is crucial for creating that desirable crispy crust.

Step 6: Cook the Tuna Patties

Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Once the oil is shimmering, carefully place the tuna cakes into the hot skillet, ensuring not to overcrowd the pan (cook in batches if necessary). Cook on each side for approximately 5 minutes, using a spatula to gently press them down. This pressing technique helps them maintain their shape and develop a firm, golden-brown crust.

Flip the patties once one side is beautifully golden brown, then cook the other side until it also achieves a rich, browned color and the patties are firm to the touch. Allow them to rest for 3-4 minutes after cooking. Serve immediately with a generous dollop of tzatziki sauce and fresh lemon wedges for an extra burst of flavor.

Creative Ways to Customize Your Tuna Patties

One of the best aspects of this Mediterranean tuna patty recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to get creative with substitutions and additions to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

• Cheese Varieties: While feta and Parmesan offer a classic Mediterranean touch, you can easily swap the feta for tangy goat cheese, creamy shredded mozzarella, or sharp cheddar cheese for a different flavor profile.
• Add More Vegetables: Boost the nutritional content and texture by incorporating finely chopped vegetables. Excellent choices include celery for crunch, colorful bell peppers, mild green onions, savory sun-dried tomatoes, or even shredded carrots or zucchini. Ensure they are finely minced to blend seamlessly into the patties.
• Breadcrumb Options: Panko breadcrumbs provide an unbeatable crispness. However, regular breadcrumbs work just as well. For a gluten-free version, use your favorite gluten-free breadcrumbs. Crushed crackers can also be a good substitute in a pinch.
• Fresh Herbs Galore: Fresh herbs are crucial for that bright, aromatic flavor. Beyond parsley, consider fresh dill for a truly Greek flavor, basil for a sweeter note, or oregano for more earthiness. A mix of herbs can be wonderfully complex.
• Alternative Proteins: If you’re not a fan of tuna, or simply want to try something different, canned salmon is an excellent substitute. Make sure to drain it well and flake it before mixing. For a vegetarian option, mashed chickpeas can be used as the base, providing a similar texture and protein boost.
• Baking Option: For a lighter approach, these patties can be baked instead of pan-fried. Simply arrange the formed patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping once halfway through, until golden brown and firm.

Storage and Reheating Tips for Tuna Patties

These Mediterranean tuna patties are fantastic for meal prepping and storing, ensuring you have healthy, delicious options ready throughout the week.

• Refrigeration: Cooked tuna patties can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, first allow the cooked patties to cool completely. Arrange them in a single layer on a baking sheet and freeze until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a large freezer-safe Ziploc bag or airtight container, placing a piece of parchment paper between each patty to prevent sticking. They will last for up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy them, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheating: For best results and to regain that delightful crispness, reheat tuna patties in an air fryer for a few minutes until warm and slightly crispy. Alternatively, you can warm them in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.

Mediterranean Tuna Patties Recipe

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Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 – 5 ounce cans Albacore tuna, flaked with a fork
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese (divided)
• 1 cup panko breadcrumbs (divided)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 2 tablespoons red onion, minced
• 2 eggs
• 1/2 lemon, juiced and zested
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, or Greek yogurt
• 2 tablespoons dijon mustard
• 1 teaspoon za’atar (or Greek seasoning or Italian seasoning)
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons parsley, chopped

Instructions

1. Drain the tuna of the water, put it in a medium mixing bowl and flake it with a fork.
2. Add in the garlic, 1/4 cup of Parmesan cheese, 1/2 cup of panko, feta cheese, red onion, eggs, lemon juice and lemon zest, mayonnaise, dijon mustard, za’atar, salt, black pepper and parsley to the mixing bowl.
3. Mix all the ingredients together with a spoon until they are well combined.
4. Set out a shallow bowl. Add the remaining 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese and 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs to this shallow bowl for breading.
5. Using your hands, form the tuna mixture into 5 tuna cakes, setting them on a large platter while you form the others.
6. Take each tuna cake and carefully coat each side in the breadcrumb mixture, gently pressing to ensure it sticks well.
7. Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add 2 tablespoons olive oil. Add the tuna cakes and cook on each side for about 5 minutes, using a spatula to push them down gently (this helps them stay in the cake form and not fall apart). Once browned on one side, flip and brown the other side until both sides are golden brown and firm.
8. Let sit for 3-4 minutes then serve with tzatziki sauce and lemon wedges.

Notes

• Instead of za’atar, you can use any spice you like. Paprika, Old Bay, thyme, oregano, Italian seasoning and Greek seasoning are great options.
• You can store these in the fridge for up to 4 days.
• You can also freeze these. Let them cool completely, then arrange them in a large Ziploc bag with a piece of parchment paper between the cakes. They last up to 3 months. When ready to eat, let them thaw overnight in the fridge.
• To reheat, I like to use an air fryer for a few minutes, or you can heat them back up in a skillet over medium-low heat.
• To bake these: Place the cakes on a baking sheet and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping once.

Nutrition

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should only be used as an approximation.