Instructions
- Cut 2 cups cabbage into thin strips.2 cups cabbage
- Mix cabbage, 2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, one chopped scallion, and 1 teaspoon salt in a medium-sized mixing bowl.2 tablespoons mayonnaise, 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar, 1 teaspoon salt
- Place in refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Mix ¼ cup almond flour, 1 egg, 2.5 ounces tuna, and two chopped scallions in a separate mixing bowl.¼ cup almond flour, 1 egg, 2.5 ounces tuna
- Divide tuna mixture into three equal parts and form into patties.
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a pan over medium heat.1 tablespoon olive oil
- Gently place tuna patties into hot oil and fry for three minutes on each side without touching to create a crispy sear.
- Once both sides are golden brown, place cooked patties on a paper towel-lined plate to absorb excess oil.
- Serve tuna patties on top of coleslaw for a delicious and nutritious meal.

Seafood lovers will enjoy this delicious and easy-to-prepare keto tuna patties recipe.Made with simple but nutritious ingredients, including almond flour, tuna, and cabbage, this low-carb dish is packed with healthy fats and won’t kick you out of ketosis.
Why you’ll love this keto-friendly recipe
Tuna is high in protein, which makes this dish a superb option to maintain muscle mass and promote satiety. This oily fish species is also a rich source of essential fats, including heart-healthy omega-3 fatty acids. These patties are made with eggs and almond flour, which offer essential nutrients and high-quality fats to sustain energy production and support a healthy body. Almond flour, a gluten-free and low-carb alternative to traditional wheat flour, ensures the patties hold together beautifully without adding unnecessary carbs.The addition of cabbage not only adds a crunchy texture but also offers various bioactive compounds with several health benefits. Research published in the Journal of Food Science found that cabbage has a positive impact on blood glucose regulation, making it especially beneficial for those with diabetes and metabolic syndrome. The study also found that cabbage may reduce damage to vital organs such as the liver and kidneys, which are often affected by diabetes-related complications. What’s more, the coleslaw dressing contains mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar, which provide a creamy tanginess that compliments the flavor profile of the tuna patties.
Is tuna high in mercury?
Mercury is a toxic metal that can accumulate in the body of fish over time. Larger predatory fish, including tuna, tend to have higher levels of mercury due to their position in the food chain, which exposes them to increased mercury bioaccumulation. Bioaccumulation occurs when aquatic species absorb small amounts of environmental toxins, which build up in their tissues over time.“Skipjack and canned light tuna typically have lower mercury levels than bigeye, albacore, or canned white tuna,” explains Dr. Berg. “Canned sockeye or pink Alaskan salmon are among the best choices to limit mercury exposure.”In addition, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) recommends limiting the consumption of all types of tuna to two to three servings per week.
Wild-caught vs. farm-raised fish
Wild-caught fish are those captured in their natural habitat, including oceans, lakes, or rivers.In contrast, farm-raised fish are raised in enclosed habitats, such as large-scale fish farms or aquaculture facilities.While both types of fish are available for consumption, there are some significant differences to consider.“Farm-raised fish are often fed corn meal, soy meal, and wheat, which typically are genetically modified organisms (GMO). This affects the quality of the fish, making it less nutritious,” explains Dr. Berg.Additionally, farm-raised fish tend to have higher concentrations of certain contaminants, including polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), due to their confined living space. PCBs are toxic synthetic chemicals that have been linked to cancer, reproductive issues, and neurological problems. Conversely, wild-caught fish have access to a diverse diet, leading to higher levels of healthy omega-3 fatty acids, crucial for brain and heart health.Wild-caught fish also tend to have lower mercury levels due to their natural habitat, which experiences less pollution from human activities.When shopping for fish, look for labels that specify wild-caught or sustainably sourced to ensure you get the best quality and highest nutritional value.
What to serve with tuna patties
If you want to add variety to your meal, here are a few mouthwatering suggestions for side dishes that pair perfectly with these keto tuna cakes.Green salad
Serve your tuna patties alongside a fresh green salad featuring kale, spinach, and other mixed greens, which adds fiber and vitamins K and C to your meal. These nutrients are essential for maintaining strong bones, immune function, and blood clotting.Toss salad with a light vinaigrette dressing for extra flavor and healthy fats.Keto mac and cheese
Who says you can’t enjoy classic comfort food such as mac and cheese on a keto diet?This keto mac and cheese recipe uses cauliflower as a base, blended with various cheeses to create a rich and creamy sauce guaranteed to satisfy any cravings.Roasted Brussels sprouts
Brussels sprouts complement these patties perfectly, providing a healthy dose of fiber, antioxidants, and vitamins A and C. They also have a satisfying crunch that contrasts nicely with the tender texture of the tuna cakes.Toss Brussels sprouts in olive oil, sea salt, and pepper before roasting for more flavor.
Stuffed portabella mushrooms
Stuff portabella mushrooms with a mixture of fried ground beef, onion, and cheese for a hearty keto-friendly side dish.The mushroom’s meaty texture perfectly complements the low-carb tuna cakes, creating a unique take on the classic surf-and-turf.Keto zucchini fries
If you’re a potato fries fan, you’ll love these zucchini fries, which are the perfect side for tuna patties and provide a satisfying crunch.Slice zucchini into thin strips and toss them in a mixture of almond flour, parmesan cheese, and seasonings before baking until crispy.Low-carb garlic bread
This garlic bread recipe is a must-try for those who miss indulging in bread.Made with almond flour and mozzarella cheese, this keto garlic bread is gluten-free and bursts with the rich flavors of fresh garlic and aromatic herbs.
Storage and reheating tips
If you have leftovers, store the tuna patties in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Alternatively, you can freeze them for up to two months.To reheat, place the patties in a preheated oven at 350 degrees F (177 degrees C) for ten minutes or until heated thoroughly.You can also reheat these tuna cakes in an oiled pan on the stovetop over medium heat for three to four minutes on each side.