My Hearty, Healthy(er?), Weeknight Tuna Bowl

You don't have to look too far to grasp that my tuna bowl is essential a riff of Hawaiian poke cum Korean/Japanese sashimi rice bowls, with a nod to Mediterranean cuisine. Who am I fooling? It's basically choose-your-own-adventure, delicious, deconstructed sushi. And it has become a regular goto for me as I usually have something in a semi-prepared state in the fridge.

But let's delve into the origins of this dish...

Poke, a traditional Hawaiian dish, has its roots in the islands' rich fishing culture. Originally, it consisted of raw fish seasoned with sea salt, seaweed, and crushed kukui nuts. Over time, Japanese immigrants introduced soy sauce and sesame oil, adding new flavors to the mix. This fusion of local and Asian influences helped poke gain popularity in Hawaii and beyond.

Meanwhile, Mediterranean countries have long enjoyed tuna in their cuisine. In Italy, Spain, and Greece, tuna is often paired with fresh vegetables, olives, and herbs to create vibrant salads. These dishes highlight the region's emphasis on fresh, healthy ingredients and simple preparation methods.

Both poke and Mediterranean tuna salads offer a delightful blend of flavors and textures. They are not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. With some planning, you can easily knock these bowls at home for a quick and nutritious weeknight meal. Customize them to your preferences by adding your favorite vegetables, grains, and sauces. Whether you prefer the bold flavors of poke or the fresh simplicity of Mediterranean salads, these tuna bowls are sure to satisfy your taste buds, on a budget and make mealtime a breeze.

Ahi tuna is usually discounted for quick sale at most grocery stores. So plan for that day, pick it up at the grocery and have a little tuna bowl party for yourself, your family and/or your friends. It's easily customizable for any protein. And try with a variety of dressings. It's fun healthy(er) food.

What’s your favorite weeknight meal you can knock off in 15 minutes? Comment below! No dialing #doordash or #skipthedishes please. haha

#tastetheworld #tuna #tunarecipe #pantry #pantrycooking #pantrystaples #tunasalad #tunabowl #poke #pokebowl #sashimi #donburi #mediterraneandiet #mediterraneancuisine #saladrecipes #budgetfriendly #weeknightdinners #bluezone