The Best Homemade Tuna Salad Recipe

Mouthwatering tuna salad with creamy mayo, crunchy veggies, and zesty lemon—perfect for sandwiches or snacks, discover the ultimate recipe inside.

Share your Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This homemade tuna salad is quick, delicious, and perfect for any meal or snack. You’ll love how easy it is to make with simple ingredients you probably already have. It’s creamy and flavorful**, with the perfect balance of tuna, mayo, and crunchy veggies. Customizable to your taste, you can add your favorite extras like pickles, herbs, or a squeeze of lemon. Healthy and satisfying**, it’s a great option for sandwiches, wraps, or even on its own.

Recipe

tuna salad recipe instructions

A simple and delicious tuna salad that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a light meal on its own. This recipe uses fresh ingredients for a flavorful and satisfying dish.

Ingredients:

  • 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
  • 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  • 1/4 cup diced celery
  • 2 tablespoons diced red onion
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (optional)

Instructions:

  1. In a medium bowl, flake the drained tuna with a fork.
  2. Add mayonnaise, celery, red onion, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
  3. Stir in chopped parsley if using.
  4. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 days.

Notes:

  • For a lighter version, substitute Greek yogurt for mayonnaise.
  • Add chopped pickles or capers for extra tang.

Equipment:

  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Fork
  • Measuring spoons and cups

Time:

  • Prep time: 10 minutes
  • Cooking time: 0 minutes

Cuisine: American

Serving: 2-3 servings

Nutrition

This tuna salad recipe provides a nutritious meal option. Below are the nutritional details per serving.

NutrientAmount
Calories220
Protein20g
Fat12g
Carbohydrates6g
Sodium400mg

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my tuna salad with fresh bread, like a crusty baguette or soft whole wheat slices, because it makes the perfect sandwich. A crisp side dish, such as cucumber salad or crunchy pickles, adds a nice contrast to the creamy texture. You can’t go wrong with these simple, tasty combos!

Fresh Bread Options

When it comes to pairing tuna salad with bread, you’ll want something that complements its flavors without overpowering them. I love using a soft, fresh ciabatta roll because its chewy texture holds up well without making the sandwich soggy. A classic whole-grain bread adds a nutty flavor that works beautifully, while a simple sourdough loaf brings a tangy twist. For a lighter option, I’ll grab a croissant or pita pocket, which feels a bit fancier. Sometimes, I even toast the bread lightly for extra crunch. Whatever you choose, make sure it’s fresh—it makes all the difference!

Crisp Side Dishes

Because a tuna salad sandwich can feel heavy on its own, I always like to add a crisp side dish to balance things out. A simple cucumber salad with vinegar and dill cuts through the richness, while pickled red onions add a tangy crunch. If I’m craving something heartier, I’ll toss shredded cabbage with lemon and olive oil for a quick slaw. Sliced radishes or celery sticks are perfect when I want minimal prep. And if I’m feeling fancy, I’ll roast chickpeas until crispy for extra protein. These sides keep the meal light, fresh, and satisfying without overpowering the tuna.

Share your Recipe