The next time you’re feeling a little stressed out but can’t afford to take the weekend off for a vacation, choose to pamper yourself by setting your sights on a night of luxury …at home.

Staycationing is a creative and practical way to treat yourself and detach from the stresses of daily life. Not only is it convenient to have all your creature comforts close by, but you get to be in full control of all the details- from what music to play to what’s acceptable as party wear. On top of that, you don’t even have to go shopping for any special equipment or ingredients for a night in unless you want to. A good bottle of wine, a couple of cans of tuna in the pantry, and a few odds and ends in your refrigerator are all you need for a gourmet meal to kick off your evening of indulgence.

 

Something light

If you’re watching your weight, skip the carbonated alcohol and alcopops and go straight for the good stuff. A lively Beaujolais would be perfect, or some nice mild Rioja Crianza. Despite these being both red wines, they’re light, young, and slightly acidic, pairing well with a full-bodied fish such as tuna.

To whip up something light and celebratory like these two wine selections could not be easier. A dash of mustard in some Greek yogurt, a spattering of capers, a can of Gold Seas Tuna Chunks in Spring Water, and you’re all set. Spread the mix on whole wheat toast medallions, sprinkle with chives or parsley, and enjoy.

 

Something refreshing

Want something light and tasty? Pair a bolder red wine like burgundy or merlot with a tuna dish that can stand up to more intense flavors and still shine.

A good place to start would be the basic flavor – Gold Seas Tuna Chunks in Olive Oil—and build it into a robust casserole. Because tuna usually has a clean, light flavor, it’s a great base to construct a casserole on. Choose to stick to your tried and tested recipes or simply wing it and load it up a deep baking dish with tuna, vegetables, noodles, and spices to see where your creativity can take you.

Something spicy

Looking for something with a little bite to heat up your blah nights?

Finger foods are always great if you have someone to hand-feed them to, and Gold Seas Tuna Chunks in Olive Oil and Chili will bring a gentle heat that guarantees a good time. Put together a spicy tuna roll by mixing in a little sriracha, Japanese mayo, scallions, and then laying the mix on a bed of sushi rice. Roll up in a tidy package with nori, and viola, the perfect bite-sized package of delectable savory and spice.

To wash it down, choose to temper this fiery morsel with a dry Riesling or a slightly acidic, light Zinfandel, which has enough spice notes of its own to play along with the spice in the tuna mix.

Something rich and cheesy

Sometimes cheese is all you need to make your week right again. Whip up your favorite mac and cheese recipe but stir in a little Gold Seas Tuna Chunks with Herb and Garlic for an exciting flavor twist. The tuna will cut through the heaviness of the cheese and noodles and make it a little lighter.

Pair this comforting dish with either a dry Chardonnay or a Sauvignon Blanc.

Something savory

If fresh, citrusy, and flavorful is what you need to wash those doldrums away, why not whip up a tangy salad topped with Gold Seas Tuna Chunks in Lemon and Pepper. Make sure to use a good amount of your favorite crispy greens to balance the filling, hearty texture and flavor of the tuna.

To round out the meal, pair the dish with something light and fruity, light on the palate. You can choose to go with your favorite sweet, light, white wine, or pick out an inexpensive dry Italian white such as a Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi or a light rosé.

Something exotic                                                                                                                               

Tuna curry isn’t something you commonly come across, but Gold Seas Tuna Chunks in a Light Indian curry is light and delicately spicy, giving you the delightful play of spices without the overpowering heat.

Try it on a bed of roasted vegetables (we recommend eggplant), and pair it with something light and sweet like an Australian moscato or even a light red wine such as your favorite shiraz.

And there you have it—a quick list of easy to make dishes from your basic kitchen staple and our suggestions for a nice, smooth drink to go with them. The next time you feel a little overwhelmed, put on some quiet jazz, switch your phone to airplane mode, and indulge. Leave the dishes, and all your worries, for tomorrow.