Classic Tuna Salad

🕒 Prep: 10 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 8

This Classic Tuna Salad is a timeless dish that offers a delightful crunch and a tangy kick. Whether you're whipping it up for a quick lunch or a light dinner, it's a versatile recipe that's both satisfying and simple to make. Let's dive into this easy-to-follow recipe that will surely become a staple in your kitchen.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days.
  • Uses pantry staples you likely already have on hand.
  • Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
  • Light yet filling, making it a great lunchtime option.
  • A healthy choice packed with protein and flavor.

Ingredients

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna packed in water, drained
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 rib celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 tbsp lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped

Step-by-step Instructions

Start by draining your tuna thoroughly. You don't want any excess liquid making the salad soggy. Once drained, place the tuna in a medium-sized bowl and use a fork to gently break it apart into smaller pieces.

Next, add in the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir these together with the tuna until everything is well combined. You want the mixture smooth but not overly mushy.

Now it's time to incorporate the crunch. Gently fold in the celery and red onion. Take care not to overmix, as you want to maintain some texture.

Finally, sprinkle in the parsley, and season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Stir everything together once more to ensure an even distribution of ingredients.

Transfer the salad to the refrigerator and let it chill for at least 30 minutes before serving. This helps meld the flavors and gives a refreshing coolness to the dish.

Tips & Tricks

  • For an extra burst of flavor, consider adding a splash of pickle juice or a dash of hot sauce.
  • If you prefer a lighter version, swap out some mayonnaise for Greek yogurt.
  • Toast your bread or crackers before serving for added texture.

Serving Suggestions

This tuna salad is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Serve it on a bed of fresh greens for a light salad, or scoop it onto whole grain bread for a satisfying sandwich. You can also serve it with crackers or cucumber slices for a quick snack or appetizer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use cooked fresh tuna. Just ensure it's fully cooked and cooled before mixing with the other ingredients.
How long does tuna salad last in the fridge?
It should be good for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Absolutely! Making it a few hours ahead allows the flavors to develop even more.

Ingredients Explained

Tuna: The star of the dish, providing a hearty base rich in protein. Opt for tuna packed in water to keep things light.

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and binds the salad together. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking.

Dijon Mustard: Brings a subtle zing that complements the tuna beautifully.

Celery: Offers a refreshing crunch that contrasts nicely with the soft tuna.

Red Onion: Gives the salad a bit of bite and a pop of color.

Lemon Juice: Brightens up the flavors and adds a touch of acidity.

Parsley: Provides a fresh, herbal note that rounds out the salad.

Simplified Instructions

1. In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, breaking it apart with a fork.
2. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until well mixed.
3. Fold in the chopped celery, red onion, and parsley.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes before serving.

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