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Classic Tuna Salad

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  • #43615

It's hard to beat a classic. Tuna salad is easy to whip up with just a few basic ingredients.


serves/makes:
  
ready in:
  under 30 minutes
Rating: 4/5

1 review

ingredients

1 can (6 ounce size) solid white tuna in water, drained well
2 stalks celery, finely chopped
3 tablespoons mayonnaise, more if needed
2 teaspoons fresh lemon juice
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

directions

Combine the tuna, celery, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and black pepper in a bowl. Mix gently so it is combined and the tuna is flaked.

Serve immediately or cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours.

To serve, place on a bed of lettuce or make a sandwich with bread, croissants, or soft buns.

recipe tips


Choose a high-quality canned tuna for the best texture. Generic and store brand canned tuna often have a very mushy texture.

For extra flavor, add a dash of mustard to the mixture.

Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for a heartier salad.

For a low-carb option, serve the tuna salad in lettuce cups instead of on bread.

Add a squeeze of sriracha or hot sauce for a spicier salad.

common recipe questions


What type of tuna is best to use for tuna salad?

Solid white tuna in water is the best for this salad as the tuna flakes maintain a more solid texture but you can also use chunk tuna for a more creamy salad.

Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water?

You can use canned tuna in oil if that is what you have on hand, but be aware that it may make the salad a bit more oily.

What can I substitute for celery in tuna salad?

If you don't have celery, you can try using chopped green onions or bell peppers for a similar crunch and flavor. If you just want celery flavor you can add some celery salt to taste.

How can I make the tuna salad creamier?

If you prefer a creamier texture, you can add more mayonnaise or even a spoonful of Greek yogurt to the mixture.

Can I add extras like pickles or onions to the tuna salad?

You can add minced pickles, onions, capers, or fresh herbs if you wish.

How long can tuna salad be stored in the refrigerator?

Tuna salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Make sure to give it a good stir before serving leftovers.

Can tuna salad be frozen?

It's not recommended to freeze tuna salad as the mayonnaise may separate and become watery when thawed.

How can I keep the tuna salad from becoming watery?

Make sure to drain the canned tuna very well before mixing it with the other ingredients.

Should I season the tuna salad with salt?

You can add a pinch of salt to taste, but be cautious as canned tuna contains sodium, so taste before adding additional salt.


nutrition data

255 calories, 18 grams fat, 2 grams carbohydrates, 22 grams protein per serving. This recipe is low in carbs.
Show full nutritional data (including Weight Watcher's Points ®, cholesterol, sodium, vitamins, and diabetic exchanges)


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reviews & comments

  1. Guest Foodie REVIEW:

    Classic tuna salad. :) Just what I was looking for. Nothing fancy and it tastes good. Quick, easy and cheap. Good for picnic or daily lunches or a snack.

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