Welcome back to Easy Recipes! I’m Chef Kristina, and today I’m excited to share with you one of my all-time favorite go-to dishes: tuna salad. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed lunch, a light dinner, or an easy meal-prep option, this vibrant, creamy tuna salad ticks all the boxes. In under 10 minutes, you’ll have a dish that’s as delicious as it is nutritious—perfect for busy weekdays, picnics, or a simple snack.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Tuna Salad
Tuna salad is more than just “tuna and mayo.” It’s a versatile canvas for fresh flavors, textures, and nutrients. Here’s why this recipe should be in your regular rotation:
- High in Protein: Each serving delivers around 25 grams of lean protein, helping keep you full and energized.
- Low in Carbs: Ideal for carb-conscious eaters or anyone following a low-carb diet.
- Customizable: Swap ingredients in and out to match your taste—think crunchy apples, capers, or even avocado!
- Meal-Prep Friendly: Make a big batch on Sunday and enjoy easy lunches all week.
If you love fresh, no-cook dishes, be sure to check out our Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad Recipe and our Mediterranean Chickpea Salad for more simple, flavorful meals.
Ingredient Deep Dive
Below is a closer look at what goes into our classic tuna salad—and why each component matters:
| Ingredient | Role & Tips |
|---|---|
| Canned Tuna | Use tuna in water for a leaner option. Drain thoroughly to avoid sogginess. |
| Greek Yogurt + Mayo | Greek yogurt adds tang and protein, while mayo brings richness. |
| Dijon Mustard | Lifts the flavor profile with a subtle zing. |
| Celery & Red Onion | Provide crunch and a hint of bite—balance is key, so chop finely. |
| Lemon Juice & Zest | Brighten the entire salad and cut through the creaminess. |
| Parsley | Fresh herb that ties all flavors together; cilantro is a good swap. |
| Seasonings | Salt, pepper—and optional paprika or cayenne for heat. |
For a Mediterranean twist, you might also enjoy our Classic Greek Salad.
Recipe Card: Classic Tuna Salad
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Classic Tuna Salad Recipe
4
servings10
minutes250
kcalIngredients
2 (5-oz) cans tuna in water, drained and flaked
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
2 tbsp light mayonnaise
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1 stalk celery, finely chopped
2 tbsp red onion, minced
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp lemon zest
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Directions
- Prepare the dressing: In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
- Combine tuna and veggies: Add the flaked tuna, chopped celery, red onion, and parsley to the bowl. Gently fold until everything is evenly coated.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste and adjust salt, pepper, or lemon juice as desired.
- Chill (optional): For best flavor, refrigerate for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Notes
- Swap Greek yogurt for all–mayo version if you prefer creamier texture.
Add diced apple or grapes for a sweet crunch.
Make it spicy: stir in ½ tsp smoked paprika or a dash of cayenne.
Keeps well in the fridge for up to 2 days—perfect for meal prep!
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Mix the Dressing
- In a medium bowl, whisk together Greek yogurt, light mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper until smooth.
- Flake the Tuna
- Drain the tuna cans and use a fork to gently break the tuna into bite-sized pieces. Avoid over-mixing to maintain a flaky texture.
- Toss in the Veggies
- Add chopped celery, red onion, and parsley. Fold gently until everything is coated in the dressing.
- Taste & Adjust
- Give your salad a taste test. Add more lemon juice if you’d like extra brightness, or a pinch of salt and pepper to suit your palate.
- Chill or Serve Immediately
- While you can dive right in, chilling the salad for 10–15 minutes in the fridge allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Tips & Variations
- Crunch Factor: Stir in diced apples, grapes, or chopped pickles for a sweet-tart twist.
- Avocado Addition: Fold in ½ diced avocado at the end for extra creaminess and healthy fats.
- Spicy Kick: Incorporate ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, chili flakes, or a dash of hot sauce.
- Herb Exchange: Swap parsley for dill, chives, or basil depending on the flavor profile you crave.
- Veggie Boost: Mix in halved cherry tomatoes, chopped bell pepper, or grated carrot for color and nutrients.
- Protein Swap: Instead of tuna, try this formula with canned salmon or chickpeas for a plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions & Pairings
Here are some of my favorite ways to enjoy tuna salad:
- Classic Sandwich: Pile it high on whole-grain bread with lettuce and tomato.
- Wrap It Up: Spoon into a tortilla with shredded cabbage for a crunchy fish taco vibe.
- Lettuce Cups: Serve in crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- On Greens: Top a bed of mixed greens, cucumbers, and olives—perfect for a light lunch.
- Cracker Platter: Scoop onto whole-wheat crackers as a party appetizer.
Pair with a chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or iced green tea to complete your meal.
Meal Prep & Storage
- Make-Ahead: This salad tastes even better the next day! Prepare up to 24 hours in advance.
- Storage: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- Freeze? Not recommended, as the yogurt-based dressing can separate when thawed.
For more meal-prep inspiration, see our 5 Easy Recipes for the Week.
Nutritional Breakdown
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 250 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 5 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 450 mg |
Note: Nutrition facts are estimates and can vary based on brands and exact measurements.
Conclusion & Call to Action
And there you have it—your new favorite tuna salad recipe, ready in just 10 minutes and brimming with fresh flavors. Whether you’re packing it for lunch, serving at a gathering, or simply enjoying a quick snack, this dish delivers on taste, texture, and nutrition.
Give it a try today and let me know how you customize it! Share your photos on Instagram with the hashtag #EasyRecipesByKristina, leave a comment below with your favorite add-ins, or rate this recipe to help fellow home cooks discover it. Happy cooking!
