Aug 25 2026
RestaurantsSharky's Beachfront RestaurantSmoked Tuna Dip Recipe

Smoked Tuna Dip Recipe

Time30m
Serves6

Fresh Smoked Tuna Dip over Shredded Lettuce with Pico de Gallo & Jalapenos. Served with Tortilla Chips.

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Ingredients

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Smoked Tuna Dip

Method

Smoked Tuna Dip

  1. 1

    Prepare tuna

    Flake the smoked tuna into a medium mixing bowl, removing any stray bones and large pieces of skin. Break it into small, bite-sized flakes with a fork.

  2. 2

    Soften base

    In a separate bowl, combine the softened cream cheese, mayonnaise, and Greek yogurt. Whisk or beat with a fork until smooth and homogenous.

  3. 3

    Add flavorings: Fold the flaked smoked tuna into the cream cheese mixture. Add lime juice, Dijon mustard, chopped capers, finely minced red onion, and chopped cilantro. Mix gently until evenly distributed.

  4. 4

    Season and adjust: Stir in black pepper and 1 teaspoon sea salt. If the dip is too thick, add up to 1 tablespoon cold water, 1 teaspoon at a time, until spreadable but still creamy. Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice as needed.

  5. 5

    Finish: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and sprinkle the top with smoked paprika for color and a hint of smoky warmth.

Pico de Gallo

  1. 6

    Combine ingredients: In a small bowl, mix the diced tomatoes, finely diced onion, chopped cilantro, and minced jalapeño.

  2. 7

    Dress and season: Add 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, 1/2 teaspoon sea salt, and 1/4 teaspoon black pepper. Toss gently to combine.

  3. 8

    Rest: Let the pico sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes to allow flavors to meld, then taste and adjust seasoning. If tomatoes are very watery, drain a little liquid before assembling.

Assembly & Serving

  1. 9

    Plate the lettuce: Arrange shredded lettuce in the center of a large shallow serving platter or individual plates to form a bed for the dip.

  2. 10

    Spoon the dip: Place the smoked tuna dip in a shallow bowl or mound it on top of the shredded lettuce, spreading it evenly.

  3. 11

    Top with pico: Spoon the pico de gallo over half of the dip or arrange alongside so guests can choose. Scatter pickled jalapeño slices on top or to the side for extra heat.

  4. 12

    Garnish and serve: Sprinkle extra cilantro leaves, a light dusting of smoked paprika, and arrange lime wedges around the platter. Serve immediately with tortilla chips for scooping.

  5. 13

    Storage: Refrigerate any leftover dip in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep pico de gallo separate and consume within 1–2 days for best texture.

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