Last Updated on March 3, 2024
As I stood in my kitchen, pondering what to make for dinner one evening, I stumbled upon a recipe that would soon become a family favorite: Seven Seas Casserole.
This delightful dish is a perfect blend of flavors that transport your taste buds to a culinary paradise. Join me on a journey as we explore the wonders of this unique casserole that has won the hearts of many food enthusiasts worldwide.
What is Seven Seas Casserole?
Seven Seas Casserole is a savory and comforting dish that combines the flavors of the land and sea in a single delectable bite.
This casserole is a perfect harmony of creamy texture, tender rice, flaky tuna, and a hint of tangy lemon juice that leaves a lingering taste of satisfaction on your palate.
The name “Seven Seas” is aptly fitting for this dish as it incorporates ingredients from both the ocean and the earth, creating a symphony of flavors that tantalize your taste buds.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Seven Seas Casseroles?
What sets this Seven Seas Casserole apart from the rest is its unique combination of ingredients and the meticulous balance of flavors.
While other casserole recipes may rely on heavy cream or canned soups for flavor, this recipe takes a different approach by using condensed cream of celery soup, which adds a subtle richness without overpowering the other ingredients.
Additionally, the addition of lemon juice gives this casserole a refreshing zing that cuts through the creaminess, making each bite a delightful experience.
How Does It Taste Like?
The first bite of Seven Seas Casserole is like a burst of flavors dancing on your taste buds. The creamy texture of the celery soup blends harmoniously with the tender rice, creating a comforting base for the dish.
As you delve deeper, you’ll encounter the subtle sweetness of green peas, followed by the savory richness of flaked tuna. The hint of lemon juice adds a pop of brightness that elevates the entire dish, making it a truly memorable culinary experience.
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Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish:
- Black pepper: Black pepper adds a warm and spicy flavor to the casserole, complementing the other ingredients.
- Onion: Onion provides aromatic flavor and texture to the casserole. It is often sautéed before being mixed with other ingredients.
- Condensed cream of celery soup: Cream of celery soup serves as the creamy base for the casserole, providing flavor and richness. It adds depth to the dish and helps bind everything together.
- Shredded Cheddar cheese: Cheddar cheese adds a rich and cheesy flavor to the casserole. It melts into the sauce, making it creamy and flavorful.
- Nonstick cooking spray: Nonstick cooking spray is used to grease the baking dish, preventing the casserole from sticking and making cleanup easier.
- Salt: Salt enhances the flavor of the casserole and balances the other ingredients.
- Frozen green peas: Green peas add sweetness and texture to the casserole. They provide bursts of color and flavor throughout the dish.
- Paprika: Paprika adds a mild and slightly sweet flavor to the casserole. It also adds color and visual appeal.
- Tuna fish: Tuna is the main protein in the casserole. It adds meatiness and flavor, making the dish hearty and satisfying.
- Water: Water is used to cook the rice, which serves as the base of the casserole.
- Lemon juice: Lemon juice adds brightness and acidity to the casserole, balancing the richness of the other ingredients.
- White rice: White rice serves as the starch component of the casserole. It provides a neutral base for the other ingredients and helps absorb the sauce, creating a cohesive dish.
Step by Step Instructions:
Step 1:
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2:
In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of celery soup, water, finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3:
Add the White Rice, frozen green peas, and flaked tuna to the bowl. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4:
Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5:
Sprinkle paprika over the top of the casserole for added color and flavor.
Step 6:
Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Step 7:
Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8:
Once the casserole is cooked through and the cheese is golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Tips & Tricks On Making Seven Seas Casserole:
– For added depth of flavor, sauté the onions in a bit of olive oil before adding them to the casserole mixture.
– Experiment with different types of cheese, such as Gruyère or Parmesan, to change up the flavor profile of the dish.
– To make this dish more hearty, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp to the casserole mixture.
– If you prefer a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes over the casserole before baking.
– To make this dish vegetarian-friendly, simply omit the tuna and add extra veggies like bell peppers or mushrooms.
Nutrition Information:
One serving of Seven Seas Casserole (based on 6 servings) contains approximately:
– 280 calories
– 10g fat
– 6g saturated fat
– 20g carbohydrates
– 18g protein
– 2g fiber
– 800mg sodium
How Do I Store This Dish?
To store any leftover Seven Seas Casserole, simply transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, reheat the casserole in the oven or microwave until heated through.
What Other Substitutes Can You Use in Seven Seas Casserole?
1. Cream of Mushroom Soup: If you’re not a fan of cream of celery soup, swap it out for cream of mushroom soup for a different flavor profile.
2. Brown Rice: For a healthier twist, replace the Minute® White Rice with brown rice for added fiber and nutrients.
3. Broccoli: Instead of green peas, try using broccoli florets for a pop of green color and added texture.
4. Salmon: Switch out the tuna for flaked salmon for a richer, more indulgent flavor.
5. Monterey Jack Cheese: Change up the cheese topping by using Monterey Jack cheese for a milder taste that pairs well with the other ingredients.
Equipment
- oven
- Mixing bowl
- casserole dish
Ingredients
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup finely onion chopped
- 1 can 10.75 oz condensed cream of celery soup
- 1/2 cup Cheddar cheese shredded
- Nonstick cooking spray
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1 cup frozen green peas
- Paprika
- 6 ounce tuna fish drained and flaked
- 1 1/3 cups water
- 2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 1/3 cups White Rice
Instructions
Step 1:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
Step 2:
- In a mixing bowl, combine the condensed cream of celery soup, water, finely chopped onion, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Step 3:
- Add the White Rice, frozen green peas, and flaked tuna to the bowl. Stir gently to combine all the ingredients.
Step 4:
- Pour the mixture into the greased casserole dish, spreading it out evenly.
Step 5:
- Sprinkle paprika over the top of the casserole for added color and flavor.
Step 6:
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
Step 7:
- Remove the foil and sprinkle shredded Cheddar cheese over the top of the casserole. Return the dish to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 8:
- Once the casserole is cooked through and the cheese is golden brown, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
Notes
Nutrition
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1: Can I make Seven Seas Casserole ahead of time and bake it later?
A: Yes, you can prepare the casserole mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it until you’re ready to bake. Simply follow the recipe instructions up to the point of baking, cover the dish, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, remove the casserole from the fridge, let it come to room temperature, then bake as directed.
Q2: Can I freeze Seven Seas Casserole?
A: While you can freeze Seven Seas Casserole, I recommend doing so before baking it. Prepare the casserole up to the point of baking, cover it tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil, then freeze for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the casserole in the refrigerator overnight, then bake as directed.
Q3: Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna in this recipe?
A: Absolutely! You can use cooked and flaked fresh tuna in place of canned tuna for a fresher and more vibrant taste. Simply cook the fresh tuna before adding it to the casserole mixture.
Q4: Is Seven Seas Casserole a kid-friendly dish?
A: Yes, Seven Seas Casserole is a kid-friendly dish that appeals to children’s palates with its creamy texture and familiar ingredients. Feel free to customize the dish by adding your child’s favorite veggies or cheese to make it even more appealing to them.
Q5: Can I make Seven Seas Casserole dairy-free?
A: Yes, you can easily make this casserole dairy-free by omitting the shredded Cheddar cheese or using a dairy-free alternative. Consider using vegan cheese or nutritional yeast as a substitute for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Seven Seas Casserole is a delightful culinary creation that captures the essence of comfort and satisfaction in every bite. With its unique blend of ingredients and harmonious flavors, this dish is sure to become a staple in your recipe repertoire.
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight meal or a crowd-pleasing dish for gatherings, Seven Seas Casserole checks all the boxes. Give this recipe a try and embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.