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This image shows a fresh tuna salad served in a white bowl, seasoned with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

Tuna Salad Recipe

This classic tuna salad is creamy, flavorful, and incredibly versatile. With tender tuna, a creamy dressing, and a perfect balance of crunch and zest, it’s ideal for sandwiches, wraps, or as a protein-packed topping. Quick to make and endlessly customizable, it’s a go-to meal anytime.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Course Salad
Cuisine American
Servings 4 people
Calories 172 kcal

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Knife and cutting board
  • Measuring spoons
  • can opener
  • Spoon or spatula

Ingredients
  

  • 2 Tbsp Red Onion Diced: Red onion adds a sharp, zesty flavor and a bit of crunch to the salad. If you prefer a milder taste, you can use green onion instead.
  • 2 Cans Tuna: Choose a good-quality canned tuna for the best flavor. I prefer tuna packed in water for a lighter option but oil-packed tuna is richer and more flavorful.
  • 2 Tbsp Chopped Parsley Chives, and/or Other Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and chives brighten up the tuna salad, adding a refreshing note. Feel free to experiment with dill or basil if you like.
  • Kosher Salt and Ground Black Pepper to Taste: These are essential for seasoning the salad and balancing the flavors.
  • ¼ Cup Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the salad. Use your favorite mayo or swap for Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
  • 1 Stalk of Celery Diced: Celery adds a satisfying crunch and fresh, slightly peppery flavor.
  • ½ tsp Dijon Mustard: Dijon mustard gives the salad a slight tang and depth of flavor that complements the mayo and tuna.

Instructions
 

  • Prepare the Ingredients: Dice the red onion, celery, and fresh herbs. Drain the tuna well.
    Preparing the Ingredients
  • Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the tuna, diced onion, celery, herbs, and Dijon mustard.
    Combining the Ingredients
  • Make the Dressing: Whisk the mayonnaise, mustard, parsley and paprika for tuna salad dressing
    this image shows medium bowl with a fork whisking mayonnaise, mustard, parsley, and paprika until smooth, creating a tangy and creamy dressing for the tuna salad.
  • Season the Dressing: Taste the dressing and season with kosher salt and black pepper to your liking.
    this image shows close-up of salt and pepper being sprinkled into the prepared dressing, adjusting the seasoning to balance the flavors of the tuna salad.
  • Make the salad: Add the mayonnaise and mix everything together until well combined.
    stirring-tuna-salad-mixture-until-well-combined-3013749-683x1024
  • Serve: Transfer the salad to different bowl and let the salad chill in the fridge for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and then finally serve.

Notes

  • Using Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise adds a tangy twist with extra protein.
  • A dash of Dijon mustard enhances the flavor and adds a subtle kick.
  • Finely chopped nuts like almonds or walnuts can bring a pleasant crunch.