Avoid the canned tunas which are very mushy. Canned albacore tuna is our favorite for this recipe. Fresh, raw tuna works great too if you feel like using fresh fish and fits your budget. The amount of egg will vary depending on the dryness of your tuna and the absorption of the bread crumbs. If you are unsure, start with 2 eggs, and if the mixture seems too dry to easily form into patties, add a 3rd egg.
In a medium bowl, combine the eggs, lemon zest, lemon juice, bread crumbs, parmesan cheese, celery, onion, garlic powder, dried herbs, salt and pepper. Stir to make sure everything is combined. Gently fold in the tuna until just combined.
Try to keep all patties same size and thickness for even cooking. Scoop 1/4 cup of mixture, and shape into patties about 3-inches wide x 1/2-inch thick and lay inside basket. Makes about 10 patties.
If patties are too soft to handle, chill them for at about 1 hour or until firm. This will make them easier to handle during cooking. Spray or brush top of patties with oil.
If you have air fryer perforated baking paper or perforated silicone mats, they are great for this recipe. Lay perforated air fryer baking paper or perforated silicone mat inside base of air fryer. Lightly spray the paper or mat. (if not you don't have the liners, spray enough olive oil spray at the base of the air fryer basket to make sure the patties do not stick)
Air Fry at 360°F for 6 minutes. Flip the patties and spray the tops again with oil. Continue to Air Fry for another 3-5 minutes or until cooked to your preference.
Serve with your favorite sauce and lemon slices.
Notes
Easy substitutions: Fresh herbs for the dried herbs. Shallots or green onions for the onions.