Is this the actual Buona Beef Tuna Genovese recipe?

No, this is a Buona Beef Tuna Genovese copycat recipe inspired by the original. It captures the flavors and textures of their dish using home-friendly ingredients.

What kind of tuna should I use?

Use tuna in olive oil , not water-packed. Brands like Ortiz or Tonnino make excellent options. It gives the dish that buttery, rich taste that defines Genovese-style tuna.

Can I serve this cold?

Yes, and it’s delicious that way serve it cold on crusty bread or in a salad. The olive oil keeps it tender, even straight from the fridge.

Is this dish considered traditional Italian?

It’s inspired by Genovese sauce from Naples , but this tuna variation is a creative twist. The Buona Beef Tuna Genovese recipe blends Italian roots with modern flavor.

Buona Beef Tuna Genovese – The Italian Dish Chicago Can’t Stop Talking About

Name: Buona Beef Tuna Genovese Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2–3 yellow onions, thinly sliced; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tsp fresh thyme or oregano; 1 bay leaf; 1 tbsp capers, rinsed; 1–2 cans tuna in olive oil, drained; Zest + juice of ½ lemon; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley; Optional: splash of dry white wine

Ingredients

Scale

2–3 yellow onions, thinly sliced

2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil

2 garlic cloves, minced

1 tsp fresh thyme or oregano

1 bay leaf

1 tbsp capers, rinsed

1–2 cans tuna in olive oil, drained

Zest + juice of ½ lemon

Salt and black pepper, to taste

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley

Optional: splash of dry white wine

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add onions, bay leaf, and salt. Cook for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally until golden and soft.

2. Stir in garlic, thyme, and capers. Cook 2 more minutes. Add a splash of white wine and let reduce.

3. Add the tuna and gently fold to coat without breaking it apart too much.

4. Finish with lemon zest, juice, and parsley. Taste and adjust seasoning.

5. Serve warm on crusty rolls, with pasta, or as crostini topping.

Notes

Use tuna in olive oil for the best flavor and texture.

The onion base can be made ahead and stored in the fridge.

Delicious hot or cold. Makes an elegant appetizer or sandwich filling.

Author: Emma
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 40 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Stovetop
Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: 320
Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 480mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 3g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 12g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 25g
Cholesterol: 25mg