Mediterranean Tuna Salad recipe photo
Ep 11

Mediterranean Tuna Salad

A warming, spice-kissed one-pot meal full of color, texture, and nourishment.

This fragrant Moroccan-inspired stew brings together tender chicken, colorful root vegetables, and a comforting blend of warming spices in one nourishing pot. Onion and garlic are gently sautéed in olive oil before the chicken is lightly browned with cumin, cinnamon, smoked paprika, ginger, and turmeric, allowing the spices to bloom and deepen in flavor. Sweet potatoes, carrots, and parsnips simmer alongside crushed tomatoes and savory broth until everything becomes tender and infused with rich, aromatic goodness. Finished with fresh herbs and optional golden raisins or toasted almonds for extra texture and calories, this hearty stew is equally comforting served on its own or alongside warm bread for dipping.

Why This Dish Is Supportive for Pancreatic Cancer Patients

This stew offers a balanced combination of lean protein, nourishing carbohydrates, and heart-healthy fats to help support energy and maintain strength during treatment and recovery. Chicken provides high-quality protein that is gentle and satisfying, while root vegetables supply vitamins, minerals, and easily digestible carbohydrates for sustained energy. Olive oil contributes calorie-dense healthy fats, and warming spices like turmeric and ginger may offer natural anti-inflammatory benefits while adding flavor without relying on excess salt. Using bone broth can further increase the protein content, and simple modifications—such as peeling the sweet potato, omitting stronger spices if needed, or serving with buttered bread or olive oil for additional calories—allow this comforting meal to be adapted to individual digestive needs and appetite.

Watch the Episode

Mediterranean Tuna Salad

A warming, spice-kissed one-pot meal full of color, texture, and nourishment.

Prep 10 min
Total 10 min
Servings 2
Scale:
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Ingredients

  • 1 can high quality tuna packed in olive oil (use oil as desired)
  • tomatoes, sliced into wedges (Roma or Campari recommended)
  • tbsp thinly sliced red onion, rinsed (optional)
  • butter lettuce leaves
  • chopped cilantro, mint (optional)
  • Optional additions: sliced avocado, small roasted potatoes, hard-boiled egg, rinsed capers
  • tsp red wine or rice vinegar (FOR DRESSING)
  • tsp olive oil (FOR DRESSING, optional)
  • tsp fresh lemon juice (FOR DRESSING, optional)
  • pinch of salt

Directions

Steps

  1. Layer lettuce with tuna, vegetables, and any other optional additions
  2. Sprinkle herbs
  3. Drizzle dressing
  4. Toss gently or keep composed 

Tips

For a lower-fat option, use tuna packed in water, skip added olive oil. For a lower fiber option, we would recommend plain tuna (no vegetables added) on sourdough or with an egg. Wild caught tuna typically contains fewer additives and can be easier on digestion.

Nutrition Notes

280 kcal | 22 g protein | 11 g carbs | 12 g fat | 3 g fiber

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