Description
Classic Tuna Salad is a simple, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or light dinners. Made with flaky tuna, creamy mayo, and crunchy celery, this timeless recipe is delicious on its own, in a sandwich, or served with crackers. Whether you’re making a quick meal or prepping ahead, this tuna salad is an easy go-to recipe!
Ingredients
Scale
- 2 cans tuna (drained) – Choose solid white or chunk light tuna in water or oil.
- ¼ cup mayonnaise – Adjust for creaminess.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard – Adds a tangy depth of flavor.
- ¼ cup celery (diced) – Provides a fresh, crunchy texture.
- 2 tablespoons red onion (finely chopped) – Optional, but adds extra flavor.
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice – Brightens the dish and balances the flavors.
- Salt and black pepper – To taste.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder – Optional, for extra seasoning.
Instructions
Drain and Flake the Tuna
- Open the canned tuna and drain it thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
- For the best texture, press the tuna with the back of a spoon while draining.
- Use a fork to flake the tuna into smaller pieces, making it easier to mix with other ingredients.
2. Mix the Ingredients
- In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna with mayonnaise for creaminess and Dijon mustard for a slight tang.
- Stir in finely chopped celery and red onion for a crunchy texture and added flavor.
- A splash of fresh lemon juice brightens up the flavors and balances the richness.
- Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder (optional) to enhance the taste.
- For an extra creamy texture, substitute half of the mayo with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado.
3. Adjust Seasoning
- Taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings as needed.
- Add more lemon juice for extra freshness or an extra pinch of salt for more depth.
- If you like a little spice, mix in some crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce.
4. Chill and Serve
- Let the tuna salad rest in the fridge for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
- Serve chilled for the best taste and texture.
- Garnish with fresh parsley or chives for a pop of color and extra freshness.
Now your classic tuna salad is ready to enjoy! Serve it as a sandwich, on a salad, in a wrap, or as