Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With minimal preparation, you can have a delicious meal ready in minutes.
High in Protein: Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, making this salad both satisfying and nutritious.
Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs.

Ingredients

2 (5-ounce) cans of tuna packed in water, drained
½ cup mayonnaise
2 celery stalks, finely diced
2 tablespoons red onion, minced
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Combine Ingredients: In a medium bowl, add the drained tuna, mayonnaise, diced celery, minced red onion, lemon juice, and sweet pickle relish.
Mix Well: Using a fork, gently mix all the ingredients until well combined.
Season: Taste the salad and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed.
Serve: Enjoy immediately, or refrigerate for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.

Servings and Timing

Servings: This recipe yields approximately 4 serving
Preparation Time: Around 10 minutes.

Variations

Greek Yogurt Substitute: For a lighter version, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
Add-ins: Incorporate chopped hard-boiled eggs, capers, or diced apples for added texture and flavor.
Herbs: Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the salad’s freshness.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Freezing: Freezing is not recommended, as it can alter the texture of the salad.

FAQs

What type of tuna is best for tuna salad?

Chunk white albacore tuna packed in water is commonly used for its mild flavor and firm texture.

Can I use oil-packed tuna instead of water-packed?

Yes, but it will result in a richer flavor and higher calorie content.

How can I reduce the calories in tuna salad?

Substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or a combination of yogurt and a small amount of mayo.

Is tuna salad safe to eat during pregnancy?

Consult your healthcare provider, but generally, canned light tuna in moderation is considered safe during pregnancy.

Can I make tuna salad ahead of time?

Yes, making it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to meld together.

What can I serve with tuna salad?

Serve it on whole-grain bread, over a bed of lettuce, or with crackers and sliced vegetables.

How do I prevent tuna salad from being too watery?

Ensure the tuna is well-drained, and avoid adding watery vegetables like tomatoes unless serving immediately.

Can I add pasta to my tuna salad?

Yes, adding cooked pasta can turn it into a hearty tuna pasta salad.

How long can tuna salad sit out safely?

It should not sit out at room temperature for more than 2 hours.

Are there vegan alternatives to traditional tuna salad?

Yes, mashed chickpeas can be used as a plant-based alternative to tuna.

Conclusion

Tuna salad is a timeless and adaptable dish that fits seamlessly into various meal plans. Its simplicity, combined with the ability to customize, makes it a favorite for many. Whether enjoyed as a sandwich, a salad topping, or a dip, this recipe offers a delightful and nutritious option for any occasion.