Tuna salad is a simple, protein-packed dish that is perfect for quick lunches, sandwiches, or as a refreshing side. Made with flaky tuna, creamy mayo, crunchy pickles, and savory seasonings, this easy recipe is both delicious and versatile. Whether served on toast, crackers, or leafy greens, it’s a satisfying meal you can whip up in minutes!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick & easy – Ready in just 10 minutes!
- Healthy & protein-packed – Tuna and eggs provide essential nutrients.
- Customizable – Adjust ingredients to suit your taste.
- Perfect for meal prep – Stays fresh in the fridge for days.
- Versatile – Enjoy as a sandwich, dip, or salad topping.
Ingredients
(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 can of tuna, drained
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped pickles or relish
- ¼ cup diced onions (optional)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Directions
- Prepare the ingredients – Drain the tuna and chop the hard-boiled eggs, pickles, onions, and fresh herbs.
- Mix the base – In a medium bowl, combine tuna, eggs, mayonnaise, mustard, and pickles.
- Season to taste – Add salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley or dill. Mix until well combined.
- Chill & serve – For the best flavor, let the tuna salad chill in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes before serving.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Chill Time: 15 minutes (optional)
- Total Time: 10-25 minutes
Variations
- Avocado Tuna Salad – Swap mayonnaise for mashed avocado for a creamy, healthy twist.
- Greek Yogurt Tuna Salad – Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for extra protein.
- Spicy Tuna Salad – Add hot sauce, sriracha, or red pepper flakes for a kick.
- Crunchy Tuna Salad – Stir in celery, bell peppers, or almonds for extra crunch.
- Mediterranean Style – Add feta cheese, olives, and lemon juice for a Mediterranean twist.
Storage/Reheating
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the texture changes when thawed.
- Serving Tip: If refrigerated, stir well before serving for the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes! Cooked and flaked fresh tuna works great in this recipe.
What type of tuna is best for tuna salad?
Albacore tuna has a firmer texture, while light tuna is softer and more affordable.
Can I make tuna salad without mayo?
Yes! Try using Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or hummus as a substitute.
What’s the best way to serve tuna salad?
Enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, salads, lettuce cups, or with crackers.
How can I make tuna salad healthier?
Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo and add extra veggies like celery, bell peppers, or cucumbers.
Does tuna salad need to be refrigerated?
Yes! Keep it refrigerated and consume within 3 days for freshness.
Can I meal prep tuna salad?
Absolutely! Make a batch and store it in an airtight container for easy meals.
Is tuna salad keto-friendly?
Yes, just skip the relish/pickles or choose a sugar-free variety.
Can I add cheese to my tuna salad?
Definitely! Try shredded cheddar, feta, or parmesan for extra flavor.
How do I prevent tuna salad from being watery?
Drain the tuna well before mixing and avoid adding too much liquid-based ingredients.
Conclusion
This classic tuna salad is a quick, delicious, and nutritious dish that you can enjoy in many ways. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with your favorite add-ins, it’s a go-to recipe for a satisfying meal. Make a batch today and enjoy it fresh!
Print
Classic Tuna Salad
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings 1x
Description
This Classic Tuna Salad is creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein! Made with tuna, hard-boiled eggs, mayo, and a hint of mustard, it’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a light and refreshing salad. Quick, easy, and delicious!
Ingredients
- 1 can tuna, drained
- 2 hard-boiled eggs, chopped
- 2 tbsp mayonnaise
- 1 tbsp Dijon mustard (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped pickles or relish
- 1/4 cup diced onions (optional)
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley or dill (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl.
- Chop the hard-boiled eggs, onions, and pickles.
- Mix Everything Together:
- Add the tuna, eggs, mayo, Dijon mustard, pickles, and onions to the bowl.
- Stir until well combined.
- Season & Garnish:
- Add salt and black pepper to taste.
- Sprinkle with fresh parsley or dill for extra flavor.
- Serve & Enjoy:
- Serve on sandwiches, wraps, crackers, or over fresh greens for a healthy meal.
Notes
- Make it healthier: Swap mayo for Greek yogurt or avocado.
- Add crunch: Mix in celery or chopped nuts.
- Storage tip: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Category: Salad, Lunch
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
