creamy tuna salad recipe

The Best creamy tuna salad recipe

I’m so excited to share this creamy tuna salad recipe with you all. As a busy mom, I’m always on the lookout for quick and easy recipes that my family will love. This one has been a staple in our household for years, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in yours too.

The best part? It’s incredibly healthy and can be made in just a few minutes. I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve made this salad, but it never gets old.

My kids love helping me mix everything together, and my husband always asks for seconds (if not thirds). The key to making this salad truly special is using high-quality ingredients, especially the tuna. I like to use skipjack or albacore, as they have a rich, meaty flavor that really shines through in the finished dish.

Of course, you can use whatever type of tuna you prefer – just be sure to drain it well before adding the other ingredients. One of the things I love about this salad is how versatile it is. You can serve it as a light lunch on its own, or add some crusty bread and a side salad for a more substantial meal.

We often have it as a snack after school or as an easy dinner on busy nights. And let’s not forget about the leftovers – this salad keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days, making it perfect for meal prep or packing lunches.

Creamy Tuna Salad

4.9 from 959 votes

A classic creamy tuna salad made with canned tuna, mayonnaise, and crunchy vegetables. This versatile dish is perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served on a bed of lettuce.

Prep Time10 mins
Cook Time15 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time10 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 290 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Tuna Salad

2 cans (5 oz each) solid white tuna in water, drained and flaked
1/2 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

👨‍🍳Directions

1Open the cans of tuna and drain the liquid thoroughly.
2Place the drained tuna in a medium mixing bowl and flake it with a fork until it is broken into small, even pieces.
3Add the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard to the bowl.
4Stir with a fork until the tuna is evenly coated and the mixture is creamy.
5Fold in the chopped celery, red onion, and fresh parsley.
6Season with salt and black pepper, then stir gently until all ingredients are well combined.
7Taste the salad and adjust seasoning if needed.
8Serve immediately on bread, crackers, or lettuce leaves, or refrigerate for up to 3 days in an airtight container.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Fork
Measuring cups and spoons
Cutting board
Knife
Can opener

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 290 kcal🧈Total Fat: 20g💛Saturated Fat: 3g❤️Cholesterol: 35mg🧂Sodium: 520mg🌾Total Carbs: 3g🥦Dietary Fiber: 0g🍬Sugars: 1g🥩Protein: 24g

📝Notes

For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. Add diced apple or grapes for a touch of sweetness.

This creamy tuna salad recipe is always a good idea for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a quick and easy lunch or dinner solution, or want something special for family gatherings or potlucks. The best part?

It’s incredibly healthy and can be made in just a few minutes. When storing leftovers, be sure to keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days – any longer than that and they may start to lose their flavor and texture.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Tuna Salad

Q: What type of tuna should I use?

A: For this recipe, I recommend using skipjack or albacore tuna. These types have a rich, meaty flavor that really shines through in the finished dish. If you can’t find these varieties, feel free to use whatever type of tuna you prefer – just be sure to drain it well before adding the other ingredients.

Q: Can I make this salad ahead of time?

A: Yes! This salad keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Simply mix all the ingredients together and store them in an airtight container until you’re ready to serve.

Q: Is this salad suitable for vegetarians or vegans?

A: Unfortunately, no – this recipe does contain fish. However, if you’re looking for a vegetarian or vegan alternative, you could try substituting the tuna with roasted vegetables or chickpeas.

Q: Can I add any other ingredients to customize this recipe?

A: Absolutely! Some ideas might include diced onions or bell peppers, chopped hard-boiled eggs, or even some chopped fresh herbs like parsley or dill.

Q: How do I store leftovers?

A: To store leftovers, simply transfer any remaining salad to an airtight container and keep it in the fridge for up to three days.

Q: Can I freeze this salad?

A: No – unfortunately not. While you can store leftover salad in the fridge for up to three days, freezing will cause the mayonnaise-based dressing to separate and lose its texture.

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