Simple Classic Tuna Salad

January 30, 2025

Looking for a quick, tasty recipe that’s a true classic? This Simple Classic Tuna Salad is here to save the day! Packed with flavor, crunch, and creamy goodness, it’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a fresh salad topping. Let’s whip it up together—it’s so simple, you’ll want to make it every week!

4.3 out of 5 (3 ratings)

Ah, tuna salad—the unsung hero of quick meals, picnic spreads, and lazy lunches. There’s something so delightfully nostalgic about this dish, isn’t there? It’s like a warm hug from childhood, but with a grown-up twist if you add the right ingredients! Today, I’m bringing you my take on the Simple Classic Tuna Salad. Whether you’re slathering it between slices of bread, stuffing it into a crisp lettuce wrap, or eating it straight from the bowl (hey, no judgment here!), this recipe is about to become a staple in your kitchen. And trust me, it’s every bit as easy as it is delicious.

What makes this tuna salad truly shine is its balance of flavors and textures. We’re talking creamy mayonnaise (the glue that holds us all together), a touch of Dijon mustard for some kick, crunchy celery and red onion for texture, and a little diced pickle or relish for that unexpected tang. Oh, and then there’s the star itself: high-quality tuna in water or olive oil. Flake it gently to keep some chunky bits intact because texture is key! To freshen it up, I like to toss in some fresh parsley or dill. The way the briny, savory tuna mingles with the brightness of the herbs? Chef’s kiss! It’s a simple, timeless recipe, but each ingredient plays a role in taking it to the next level.

Here’s my top tip for making this salad extra special: don’t skip chilling it before serving. I know, I know, the temptation to dive in immediately is real. But giving the flavors time to meld in the fridge amplifies the deliciousness. Also, taste as you go! Maybe you like yours a bit tangier—easy fix with a squirt of lemon juice. Too creamy? Add a touch more celery or even some chopped cucumber for crunch. Oh, and if you’ve got one of those hand choppers, chopping the onions and celery into finely diced perfection makes all the difference. Efficient AND fancy!

Ready to give it a go? The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can serve it classic-style on whole-grain bread, toast it on a baguette with melted cheese for something a little indulgent, or scoop it onto a bed of greens for a lighter option. Feeling bold? Add some curry powder or sriracha for a flavor twist. Seriously, get creative! No matter how you serve it, this Simple Classic Tuna Salad will make you the reigning champion of easy, crowd-pleasing meals. So, what are you waiting for? Go grab that can of tuna and get ready to wow your taste buds.

Keywords: quick tuna salad recipe, homemade tuna salad sandwich, best classic tuna salad, easy tuna lunch ideas, creamy tuna with crunch, tuna salad meal prep, simple tuna salad variations

Prep Time

10 minutes

Cook Time

Servings

4 servings

Cuisine

American

Ingredients

•2 5-ounce cans tuna, drained
•1/4 cup mayonnaise
•1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
•1 celery stalk, finely chopped
•2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
•1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
•1 teaspoon lemon juice
•Salt, to taste
•Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1
In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard.
2
Add the chopped celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl and mix well.
3
Stir in the lemon juice and season the mixture with salt and black pepper to taste.
4
Adjust seasoning as needed and serve immediately or refrigerate for later use.
5
Serve with crackers, on bread as a sandwich, or atop a bed of greens as desired.

Nutrition Information

Calories

210 calories

Protein

20g

Carbs

Fat

14g

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can I use a different type of tuna for this recipe?

A: Yes, you can use any type of canned tuna, such as solid white albacore or chunk light tuna, depending on your preference. If you prefer fresh tuna, you can cook and flake it before using it in the recipe.

Q: What can I use as a substitute for mayonnaise?

A: If you prefer not to use mayonnaise, you can substitute with Greek yogurt, sour cream, or mashed avocado. Each will slightly alter the flavor and texture but will still work well in the recipe.

Q: I don’t have Dijon mustard. Can I use something else?

A: If you don’t have Dijon mustard, you can use yellow mustard, spicy brown mustard, or even a small amount of whole-grain mustard as a substitute. Keep in mind that the flavor profile may change slightly.

Q: How long can I store tuna salad in the refrigerator?

A: Store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Be sure to stir it well before serving, as the ingredients may separate slightly during storage.

Q: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A: Yes, you can make this tuna salad up to 24 hours in advance. In fact, letting it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours can help the flavors meld together. Just give it a quick stir before serving.

Q: What are some variations I can try with this recipe?

A: You can add chopped pickles or relish for extra tang, hard-boiled eggs for added protein, or a pinch of smoked paprika for a subtle smoky flavor. For a lighter version, reduce the mayonnaise and add a bit more lemon juice.

Q: My tuna salad turned out too dry. How can I fix it?

A: If the tuna salad is too dry, simply add a little more mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, or a splash of olive oil until you reach your desired consistency. Be careful to add small amounts at a time to avoid making it too wet.

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