These Tonnino Yellowfin Tuna Fillets with Oregano in Olive Oil came from Whole Foods while on sale there. Packed in a glass jar, you can largely see what you're getting before you buy it, an anomaly in the world of tinned fish. But how did they taste?
Initial impression upon opening the can jar: 4.9/5.
Some nice elongated, solid tuna fillets, three in total. The immersion in oil masks any real aroma at this point.
Pulling the fillets out, they remain largely intact. Two of the three were used immediately over a Mediterranean pasta salad with rotini, cucumber, roasted red pepper and kalamata olives. While delicious, it didn't really allow for a sense of the tuna on its own merits.
Let's Try it Alone
I plated the remaining fillet and poured an ounce or so of the oregano-infused olive oil over it. There was a bit of tuna debris left in the bottom, so... Waste not, want not. I added it to the top.
It was at this point the aroma of the fresh tuna and herbs started to bloom. Breaking the fillet into smaller bite-size pieces, I endeavored to coat each in the golden green-hued oil. I found the tuna itself felt a little dry on the palate, and the oil really improved the mouthfeel.
I thought the level of oregano was just right, not heavy-handed as with some recent tastings. Even though listed at a moderate 380mg. sodium, it seemed a little lacking in salt. But I opted not to make any alterations, and just enjoyed it as-is.
The olive oil, while not listed as EVOO, is of high quality, and I'll keep that remaining in the jar for some near term future use.
All in all, the $9 regular price is reasonable for wild, pole & line caught yellowfin. Also of note is this glass jar pack is 6.7 oz, a generous portion of same. I see Walmart carries some Tonnino tuna in this format at prices more in line with the Whole Foods sale price.
Main Takeaways
- Meaty, substantial tuna fillets
- Good seasoning level
- Lacked salt, on its own
Brand: Tonnino
Description: Yellowfin tuna fillets with oregano in olive oil
Species: Thunnus albacares
Country of Origin: Costa Rica
Source: FAO?
Skin/Bones: No/No
Net Wt: 6.7 oz.
Price Range: $9
