What Cheese Goes Well with Tuna? Surprisingly Savory Pairings
While seemingly unconventional, cheese and tuna can create delightful flavor combinations. The best cheeses to pair with tuna are mild and creamy, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or cream cheese, which complement the fish’s richness without overpowering its delicate flavor.
Understanding the Tuna-Cheese Conundrum
For many, the thought of pairing tuna with cheese evokes skepticism, even aversion. This stems from deeply ingrained culinary habits and a perceived clash of flavors. Tuna, often associated with light, summery dishes and bright acidity, seems worlds apart from the richer, more savory profiles typically associated with cheese. However, dismissing the pairing outright overlooks the potential for creating surprisingly delicious and nuanced dishes. The key is understanding the characteristics of different cheeses and how they interact with the taste and texture of tuna.
The Golden Rules of Tuna-Cheese Pairing
Successfully combining tuna and cheese hinges on understanding these fundamental principles:
- Mildness is Key: Avoid strong, pungent cheeses like blue cheese, aged cheddar, or Limburger. Their assertive flavors will completely overwhelm the tuna.
- Creaminess Wins: Cheeses with a creamy texture and mouthfeel, such as mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or cream cheese, complement the tuna’s richness and provide a textural contrast.
- Acidity Awareness: If the tuna is already prepared with acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar, choose cheeses with lower acidity to maintain balance.
- Consider the Preparation: Tuna salad, tuna melts, and grilled tuna each present unique pairing opportunities. Tailor your cheese selection to the specific dish.
Cheeses That Complement Tuna: A Detailed Guide
Here’s a breakdown of cheeses that generally pair well with tuna, along with considerations for each:
- Mozzarella: A classic choice, especially for tuna melts. Its mild flavor and excellent melting properties make it a versatile option. Fresh mozzarella adds a creamy texture to tuna salads.
- Monterey Jack: Similar to mozzarella in flavor but slightly sharper, Monterey Jack melts beautifully and adds a subtle tang.
- Cream Cheese: Ideal for tuna sandwiches or wraps. Its creamy texture and mild flavor complement the tuna perfectly. Flavored cream cheeses (e.g., chive, dill) can add extra dimension.
- Swiss: Adds a nutty and slightly sweet flavor that can complement tuna, especially in melts.
- Provolone: Another mild option that melts well and provides a slightly sharper flavor than mozzarella.
- Havarti: Its buttery flavor and creamy texture make it a good accompaniment to tuna sandwiches or salads. Dill Havarti pairs particularly well.
Cheeses to Avoid with Tuna: Proceed with Caution
These cheeses generally don’t pair well with tuna due to their strong flavors or overpowering textures:
- Blue Cheese (e.g., Gorgonzola, Roquefort): Too pungent and assertive.
- Aged Cheddar: Its sharp flavor and crumbly texture clash with tuna.
- Brie/Camembert: While creamy, their earthy, mushroomy notes don’t complement tuna.
- Feta: Often too salty and crumbly, unless used very sparingly in a tuna salad.
Practical Applications: Tuna Dishes and Cheese Pairings
The success of a tuna and cheese pairing often depends on the specific dish. Here are a few examples:
| Dish | Recommended Cheese | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuna Melt | Mozzarella, Monterey Jack, Provolone | These cheeses melt well and provide a mild, creamy flavor that complements the tuna. Add a slice of tomato for extra flavor. |
| Tuna Salad Sandwich | Cream Cheese, Havarti | Cream cheese adds a luxurious creaminess, while Havarti provides a buttery flavor. Consider adding lettuce, tomato, and cucumber for a refreshing touch. |
| Grilled Tuna Steak | Feta (small crumbles) | Use sparingly. A tiny amount of salty feta can add a surprising burst of flavor to a grilled tuna steak. |
| Tuna Noodle Casserole | Cheddar (mild) | A classic pairing, use a milder cheddar to complement, not overwhelm the tuna. |
Beyond the Basics: Experimenting with Flavors
Once you’ve mastered the basics, don’t be afraid to experiment with different flavor combinations. Consider adding herbs, spices, or vegetables to enhance the pairing. For example, dill pairs exceptionally well with tuna and cream cheese, while a sprinkle of paprika can add warmth to a tuna melt.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Why is the idea of cheese with tuna so controversial?
The controversy stems primarily from cultural expectations and perceived flavor clashes. Tuna is often associated with light, fresh flavors, while cheese is viewed as richer and more savory. Many people simply haven’t considered the possibility of a successful pairing, due to ingrained culinary traditions.
What is the best way to introduce cheese to a tuna dish if I’m hesitant?
Start small and subtle. Add a thin layer of mild cream cheese to a tuna sandwich or sprinkle a few crumbles of feta on a grilled tuna steak. This allows you to experience the flavor combination without being overwhelmed.
Can I use sharp cheddar in a tuna melt?
While not generally recommended, a small amount of very mild sharp cheddar can work if balanced with other ingredients like mayonnaise and vegetables. However, it’s best to err on the side of caution and opt for a milder cheese.
Does the type of tuna (canned vs. fresh) affect the cheese pairing?
Yes, canned tuna tends to be milder and requires a more subtle cheese pairing (cream cheese, mozzarella). Fresh tuna, especially grilled or seared, can handle a slightly bolder cheese like feta, but still in moderation.
What about flavored cheeses? Are there any that pair well with tuna?
Dill Havarti is a particularly good pairing, as dill complements tuna beautifully. Other flavored cream cheeses, such as chive or vegetable, can also work well in tuna sandwiches.
Can you pair cheese with tuna sushi?
This is unconventional but can work with cream cheese, especially in California rolls. The cream cheese adds a creamy richness that complements the tuna and other ingredients.
Is it safe to combine cheese and fish?
Yes, combining cheese and fish is perfectly safe. There’s no scientific basis to the old adage that “fish and cheese don’t go together.” Food safety depends on proper handling and storage, not the combination of ingredients.
What’s the best cheese for a low-carb tuna melt?
Mozzarella is a good option, as it’s relatively low in carbs and melts well. However, be mindful of the bread you use for the melt.
How does the tuna preparation method (e.g., grilled, canned in oil, canned in water) impact the cheese choice?
Grilled tuna, with its richer flavor, can handle a slightly stronger cheese. Canned tuna in oil often benefits from a milder cheese, while tuna in water may require a more flavorful cheese to add depth. Consider the overall flavor profile when making your selection.
Are there any regional cheese variations that particularly complement tuna?
In coastal regions of the Mediterranean, you might find feta or other brined cheeses paired with tuna, reflecting the local culinary traditions.
What herbs and spices enhance the flavor of a tuna and cheese pairing?
Dill, chives, paprika, black pepper, and a touch of lemon zest can all enhance the flavor of a tuna and cheese combination. Experiment to find your favorite blend.
Can I add cheese to a tuna pasta salad?
Absolutely! Mozzarella or Monterey Jack cubes are excellent additions. Consider adding chopped vegetables like celery, red onion, and bell pepper for extra texture and flavor.