This Classic Tuna Salad Recipe is simple, fresh and very tasty. It is perfect for quick meals. Many people love it for lunch. You can make it in minutes. This Classic Tuna Salad Recipe uses easy ingredients.
You may already have them at home. It is creamy, crunchy and full of flavor. You can enjoy it in sandwiches or bowls. If you want a fast and healthy dish, try this today. Learn How to make Classic Tuna Salad easily.
The Secret Behind This Delicious
The secret is balance. Good tuna matters a lot. Always drain tuna well. This keeps the salad from getting watery. Fresh vegetables add crunch. Mayonnaise gives creaminess. A little lemon juice adds brightness.
Do not add too much dressing. Keep flavors simple. Let the salad rest before serving. This helps flavors blend nicely. These small steps make the salad taste amazing every time.
Recipe Card info
- Recipe Name: Classic Tuna Salad
- Servings: 4
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Course: Salad / Lunch
- Cuisine: American
- Calories: 240 kcal per serving
Equipment List
- Medium mixing bowl
- Fork
- Knife
- Cutting board
- Measuring spoons
- Spoon
Ingredients You Need for Classic Tuna Salad Recipe
- 2 cans tuna in water, drained
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Optional: 1 teaspoon mustard
These are the main Ingredients for Classic Tuna Salad that give great taste.
Instructions
1. Drain the Tuna
Open tuna cans. Drain all water completely. This helps keep salad thick and creamy.
2. Flake the Tuna
Place tuna in a bowl. Use a fork to break it into small pieces.
3. Add Vegetables
Add chopped celery and onion to the bowl. Mix gently with tuna.
4. Add Dressing
Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and mustard if using.
5. Mix Well
Stir everything gently until well combined. Do not overmix.
6. Add Fresh Herbs
Sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Mix lightly for fresh flavor.
7. Taste and Adjust
Taste the salad. Add more salt or lemon juice if needed.
8. Chill Before Serving
Cover bowl and chill for ten minutes before serving.
This is How to make Classic Tuna Salad Recipe step by step.
Expert Tips & Variations
- Use tuna in oil for richer flavor.
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for lighter version.
- Add chopped pickles for tangy crunch.
- Use green onions instead of red onions.
- Add boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Try a pinch of paprika for mild spice.
- Add sweet corn for color and sweetness.
Nutrition Information
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 240 kcal |
| Protein | 22 g |
| Fat | 16 g |
| Saturated Fat | 3 g |
| Carbohydrates | 2 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sodium | 380 mg |
This salad is high in protein and filling.
Serving Suggestions
Serve tuna salad in sandwiches or wraps. Enjoy it with crackers. Spoon it over fresh lettuce. Use it in stuffed tomatoes. Add it to lunch boxes. Serve with sliced cucumbers on the side. It also works well as a quick dinner option.
Storage & Reheating Tips
Store tuna salad in an airtight container. Keep it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for two days. Do not freeze tuna salad. Reheating is not recommended. Serve it cold for best taste and texture. Stir well before serving leftovers.
Classic Tuna Salad Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 cans tuna in water drained
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 celery stalk finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons red onion finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- Optional: 1 teaspoon mustard
These are the main Ingredients for Classic Tuna Salad that give great taste.
Instructions
Drain the Tuna
- Open tuna cans. Drain all water completely. This helps keep salad thick and creamy.
Flake the Tuna
- Place tuna in a bowl. Use a fork to break it into small pieces.
Add Vegetables
- Add chopped celery and onion to the bowl. Mix gently with tuna.
Add Dressing
- Add mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and mustard if using.
Mix Well
- Stir everything gently until well combined. Do not overmix.
Add Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle chopped parsley on top. Mix lightly for fresh flavor.
Taste and Adjust
- Taste the salad. Add more salt or lemon juice if needed.
Chill Before Serving
- Cover bowl and chill for ten minutes before serving.
- This is How to make Classic Tuna Salad Recipe step by step.
Notes
- Use tuna in oil for richer flavor.
- Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for lighter version.
- Add chopped pickles for tangy crunch.
- Use green onions instead of red onions.
- Add boiled eggs for extra protein.
- Try a pinch of paprika for mild spice.
- Add sweet corn for color and sweetness.
FAQs about Classic Tuna Salad Recipe
1. Can I make Classic Tuna Salad without mayonnaise?
Yes, you can replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt or mashed avocado. This gives creaminess while keeping it healthier and fresh.
2. What type of tuna works best for this recipe?
Chunk light tuna or solid white albacore both work well. Choose tuna packed in water for lighter flavor.
3. Is Classic Tuna Salad healthy for weight loss?
Yes, it is high in protein and low in carbs. Use light dressing to reduce calories further.
4. How long can tuna salad sit out safely?
Tuna salad should not sit out more than two hours. Keep it chilled to avoid spoilage.
5. Can I add more vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can add bell peppers, cucumbers, or carrots. Chop them finely for best texture.
Conclusion
This Classic Tuna Salad Recipe is quick and comforting. It uses simple ingredients. Anyone can make it easily. You now know How to make Classic Tuna Salad at home.
It works for lunch, dinner or snacks. Try different variations to suit your taste. Make it once, and you will love it forever. Enjoy fresh, homemade tuna salad anytime.
Sofia Lane is a food lover who loves cooking and sharing easy, tasty recipes. She believes in making cooking simple and fun for everyone. On DiveCrave, Sofia shares her favorite meals, desserts and treats that anyone can make at home.