Easy Tuna Salad Recipe – Perfect for Meal Prep & Quick Lunches

There’s something wonderfully satisfying about a perfectly balanced tuna salad that hits all the right notes—creamy, crunchy, fresh, and protein-packed. This Easy Tuna Salad combines tender flaked tuna with crisp celery, a touch of tangy lemon, and just the right amount of creamy mayo to create a versatile dish that’s ready in under 10 minutes. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch solution, a reliable meal prep option, or a crowd-pleasing sandwich filling for the family, this classic recipe delivers comfort and convenience in every bite. It’s the kind of no-fuss dish that transforms simple pantry staples into something genuinely delicious.

Easy Tuna Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cans (5 oz/142g each) tuna in water, drained
• 1/3 cup (75g) mayonnaise
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced (about 1/2 cup/60g)
• 1/4 small red onion, finely minced (about 2 tablespoons)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1/2 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
• 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Base Drain the tuna thoroughly and transfer to a medium mixing bowl. Use a fork to gently flake the tuna into bite-sized pieces, breaking up any large chunks while keeping some texture.

Step 2: Add the Vegetables Add the diced celery and minced red onion to the tuna. The celery provides essential crunch, while the red onion adds a mild bite that complements the fish beautifully.

Step 3: Create the Dressing In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, and Dijon mustard until smooth. This combination creates the perfect creamy base with a subtle tang.

Step 4: Combine and Season Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and gently fold everything together until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, then fold in the chopped parsley and hard-boiled egg if using.

Step 5: Chill and Serve Let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. Serve chilled on bread, crackers, or lettuce cups.

Cooking Notes

For the best texture, avoid over-mixing the salad—you want to maintain some of the tuna’s natural flakiness. If you prefer a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. For extra flavor depth, try adding a pinch of garlic powder or a dash of hot sauce. This tuna salad keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it perfect for meal prep. Store in an airtight container and give it a gentle stir before serving. For gluten-free meals, serve over greens or with gluten-free crackers instead of traditional bread.

FAQs

Q: Can I use tuna packed in oil instead of water? A: Absolutely! Oil-packed tuna will give you a richer flavor and slightly more calories. Just drain it well and reduce the mayo slightly if needed.

Q: How long does homemade tuna salad last? A: Properly stored in the refrigerator, this tuna salad will stay fresh for 3-4 days. Always use clean utensils when serving to maintain freshness.

Q: What’s the best way to serve tuna salad besides sandwiches? A: Try it stuffed in avocado halves, over mixed greens, with whole grain crackers, or as a filling for lettuce wraps. It’s also delicious on top of baked sweet potatoes.

Keto/Low-Carb Version

This tuna salad is naturally keto-friendly! To keep it low-carb, skip the traditional bread and serve it in large lettuce leaves, over cucumber slices, or with pork rinds for crunch. You can also stuff it into bell pepper halves or enjoy it straight with a fork alongside some sliced avocado for healthy fats.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Tuna Salad proves that the best recipes are often the simplest ones. With its perfect balance of protein, crunch, and creamy satisfaction, it’s destined to become a regular in your meal rotation. Whether you’re packing lunches for the week, need a quick dinner solution, or want to keep a healthy option on hand, this versatile recipe has you covered. Give it a try—your taste buds (and your schedule) will thank you!