Photo: Greg DuPree, Food Stylist: Emily Nabors Hall, Prop Stylist: Julia BaylessTonnato originates from the Italian term tonno, which means tuna. It can describe dishes that include or are served with tuna. Today, tonnato typically refers to a vibrant, creamy sauce made from blended tuna, anchovies, capers, lemon, and olive oil, often used to top veal or chicken. This bold tonnato dip recipe draws inspiration from this classic sauce. It pairs wonderfully with bitter endive, radicchio, and even roasted vegetables. Not only is it flavorful, but it’s also rich in protein—perfect if you’re seeking a protein-packed appetizer!
Be careful not to overprocess the dip after adding mayonnaise. Overprocessing can result in a grainy texture.
Ingredients
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1 6.7-oz. jar tuna fillets, drained
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5 anchovy fillets (from a 2-oz. tin)
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3 Tbsp. fresh lemon juice (from 2 lemons)
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2 Tbsp. nonpareil capers, drained
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2 Tbsp. chopped fresh flat-leaf parsley, plus more for garnish
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1 tsp. Dijon mustard
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1/4 tsp. freshly ground black pepper
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1 medium clove garlic
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1 cup mayonnaise
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Crudités, for serving
Directions
Combine all ingredients in a food processor:
Blend tuna, anchovies, lemon juice, capers, parsley, mustard, pepper, and garlic in a food processor until a mostly smooth paste forms, about 20 seconds. Add mayonnaise and pulse until fully combined, about 4 pulses.
Chill, garnish, and serve:
Move the mixture to a small serving bowl. Cover and refrigerate until firm, for at least 1 hour or up to 2 days. Add parsley as a garnish and serve with crudités for dipping.
Transform leftover tonnato dip into a salad dressing by mixing in grated Parmesan cheese and extra garlic. Adjust the oil and acidity to suit your taste.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
| 308 | Calories |
| 28g | Fat |
| 2g | Carbs |
| 11g | Protein |
| Nutrition Facts | |
|---|---|
| Servings Per Recipe 6 | |
| Calories 308 | |
| % Daily Value * | |
| Total Fat 28g | 36% |
| Saturated Fat 4g | 22% |
| Cholesterol 34mg | 11% |
| Sodium 496mg | 22% |
| Total Carbohydrate 2g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber 1g | 2% |
| Total Sugars 1g | |
| Protein 11g | 22% |
| Vitamin C 11mg | 12% |
| Calcium 24mg | 2% |
| Iron 1mg | 5% |
| Potassium 269mg | 6% |
*The % Daily Value (DV) tells you how much a nutrient in a food serving contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
