Mediterranean Herb Tuna Salad

🕒 Prep: 15 min
🔥 Cook:
🍽 Serves: 4
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Meet the Mediterranean Herb Tuna Salad — a vibrant, refreshing dish that’s as easy to whip up as it is to devour. Packed full of fresh ingredients and brimming with zesty flavors, it’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner.

Ingredients for Mediterranean Herb Tuna Salad

Tuna: The star of the dish, providing lean protein and a savory base. Opt for high-quality, canned tuna packed in water for the best flavor.

Cherry tomatoes: These add a burst of sweetness and a pop of color to the salad.

Cucumber: Offers a refreshing crunch and balances the flavors.

Red onion: Finely chopped for a bit of sharpness and added texture.

Kalamata olives: Their briny flavor enhances the Mediterranean vibe.

Avocado: Brings creaminess and a healthy dose of fats.

Fresh parsley and dill: These herbs add a fragrant, earthy freshness.

Capers: Adds a tangy punch that complements the tuna.

Lemon juice: Brightens up the flavors with its citrusy zing.

Olive oil: A staple in Mediterranean cooking, providing a rich, smooth texture.

Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing all the flavors together.

Tips & Tricks

  • If you prefer a bit more kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the dressing.
  • For a creamier salad, mix in a tablespoon of Greek yogurt with the dressing.
  • Use a fork to flake the tuna — it helps keep the texture light and airy.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this salad with a side of crusty whole-grain bread or pita for a complete meal. It also complements grilled chicken or fish beautifully, making it a versatile addition to any dinner table.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Absolutely! Just sear or grill the tuna, let it cool, and then flake it into the salad.
How long will this salad keep in the fridge?
It's best enjoyed fresh but will keep for 1-2 days in an airtight container in the fridge.
What can I use instead of capers?
If capers aren’t your thing, try finely chopped pickles for a similar tang.

Mediterranean Herb Tuna Salad Recipe Walkthrough

Start by grabbing a large mixing bowl — you’ll need the space! Drain the tuna well to avoid a soggy salad, then flake it into the bowl. Add your cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, and Kalamata olives. The colors alone should tell you you’re onto something good.

Next, gently fold in the avocado along with the parsley and dill. Sprinkle in the capers for that extra zing. Now, in a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pour this dressing over your salad mixture and give it a gentle toss. This step is crucial to ensure every bite is as flavorful as the last.

Finally, taste your creation. Adjust the seasoning if necessary — a little more salt or a dash more lemon juice can make all the difference. Serve it right away for a vibrant experience, or let it chill in the fridge for 30 minutes if you prefer the flavors more melded.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and effortless to prepare, making it ideal for busy days.
  • Brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your kitchen with simple, fresh ingredients.
  • Versatile enough to be served as a main dish or a side.
  • Healthy and satisfying with a delightful medley of textures.

Ingredients

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna packed in water, drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1 avocado, diced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1 tbsp capers
2 tbsp lemon juice
3 tbsp olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. In a large mixing bowl, combine drained tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, olives, avocado, parsley, dill, and capers.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and gently toss to combine.
4. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
5. Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes to enhance flavors.

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