The Best Homemade Tuna in a Salad Recipe

Make the best homemade tuna salad with simple ingredients for a quick, healthy meal that's perfect for sandwiches or solo—discover the secret to perfect flavor.

Share your Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This tuna salad is quick, easy, and packed with flavor, making it a go-to for busy days or simple lunches. You’ll love how fresh and zesty it tastes, perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or even on its own. It’s budget-friendly, using ingredients you likely already have at home. Plus, it’s customizable, so you can add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own. And, it’s healthier than store-bought versions, with no preservatives or added sugars.

Recipe

quick tuna salad recipe

Tuna salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed on its own, as a sandwich, or atop a bed of greens. This simple recipe uses easily accessible ingredients to create a flavorful and satisfying meal quickly.

Ingredients

  • 2 cans of tuna (in water or oil), drained
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, flake the drained tuna using a fork.
  2. Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, red onion, celery, parsley, and lemon juice to the bowl.
  3. Mix all ingredients until well combined.
  4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Notes

For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. To enhance the flavor, consider adding capers, diced pickles, or a splash of hot sauce.

Equipment

Medium mixing bowl, fork, measuring spoons, knife, cutting board

Time

Prep time: 10 minutes, Cooking time: 0 minutes

Cuisine

American

Serving

Serves 2-4

Nutrition

This tuna salad is packed with essential nutrients, making it a healthy choice for any meal. Below is the nutritional information per serving.

NutrientAmount
Calories220 kcal
Protein20 g
Fat12 g
Carbohydrates8 g
Fiber2 g
Sugar3 g
Sodium380 mg
Cholesterol40 mg

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my homemade tuna salad with crusty bread, like a baguette or ciabatta, for a satisfying crunch. Fresh veggies, such as cucumber slices or cherry tomatoes, add a revitalizing touch to the meal. It’s a simple combo that makes lunch feel extra special.

Crusty Bread Options

For a tuna salad sandwich that really hits the spot, I love pairing it with crusty bread—it’s sturdy enough to hold up to the filling while adding a satisfying crunch. A classic baguette works wonders, with its crisp exterior and soft inside. Sourdough brings a tangy twist, balancing the creamy tuna perfectly. If you’re feeling fancy, ciabatta’s airy pockets soak up just enough flavor without getting soggy. Even whole-grain artisanal loaves add a nutty depth. Just toast it lightly for extra texture. Trust me, the right bread turns a simple sandwich into something special, every single time.

Fresh Vegetable Sides

When you’ve got a delicious tuna salad ready to go, adding fresh vegetable sides can really round out the meal. I love pairing mine with crisp cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, and crunchy carrot sticks—they add color and texture. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette works too, or you can go for something heartier like roasted bell peppers. If I’m feeling fancy, I’ll toss in some avocado slices or steamed asparagus. These veggies not only make the plate look inviting but also balance the richness of the tuna. Trust me, it’s a combo you’ll want to eat again and again.

Share your Recipe