Looking for a quick and delicious appetizer or snack? These Tuna and Ricotta Balls are the perfect combination of creamy, savory, and crispy goodness.
Made with tender ricotta, flavorful tuna, and a touch of anchovies and capers for depth, these bite-sized delights are easy to prepare and packed with Mediterranean flavors.
Plus, you can choose to fry them for a crispy crunch or bake them for a lighter alternative. Ready to get started? Let’s dive into the recipe!
Ingredients
- Drained tuna in oil 230g
- Cow's milk ricotta 200g
- Anchovies fillets in oil 20g
- Capers in salt 20g
- Breadcrumbs 50g
- Chopped parsley 8g
- Medium eggs 2
- Parmigiano Reggiano cheese 50g
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
For breading and frying:
- Breadcrumbs 40g
- Peanut oil as needed
Preparation
1. To prepare the tuna and ricotta balls, start by draining the ricotta in a colander for about half an hour or until it stops releasing its whey. In a bowl, combine the drained ricotta, grated Parmigiano cheese, crumbled tuna, and drained anchovies.
2. Add the rinsed capers, chopped parsley, breadcrumbs, and lightly beaten eggs. Mix the ingredients with a fork until well combined.
3. Combine all the ingredients, add salt and pepper, and continue kneading with your hands until you have a compact and homogeneous mixture. If the mixture is too soft, add more cheese; if too firm, add a few drops of milk. Dampen your hands slightly, take small portions of the mixture weighing around 30 grams, and shape them into the classic round and slightly flattened ball form.
4. Once all the balls are formed, coat them in breadcrumbs. Heat the peanut oil in a pan to 180°C. Fry a few balls at a time until they turn golden brown.
5. Once golden, drain the balls and place them on kitchen paper to remove excess oil. Serve the tuna and ricotta balls hot.
Storage
You can freeze the raw balls and fry them when needed. Once cooked, consume them immediately or store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.
Tips
For a lighter version, bake them at 200°C for 15 minutes or until golden brown.
Serve alongside a fresh salad, tzatziki sauce, or a zesty lemon aioli for an extra burst of flavor.
Try adding a pinch of chili flakes or lemon zest to the mixture for a refreshing twist.
Crispy on the outside and irresistibly creamy inside, these Tuna and Ricotta Balls make a fantastic appetizer, party snack, or even a light meal when paired with a fresh salad. Whether you fry or bake them, they’re guaranteed to be a hit. So why wait? Get rolling and enjoy this Mediterranean-inspired delight!
