Sometimes, the best meals are the simplest ones. And this Simple Tuna Salad is the perfect example of that! It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavors that will leave you coming back for more. Creamy, tangy, and full of texture, this tuna salad is perfect for a light lunch, a protein-packed snack, or even as a quick dinner. Plus, it’s a meal that’s so versatile—you can throw it on a bed of greens, scoop it onto crackers, or just enjoy it by the spoonful. It’s delicious no matter how you serve it!
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Trust me, this is one of those recipes you’ll want to keep on repeat. Not only is it super satisfying, but it’s also incredibly quick to make, especially on those busy days when you want something tasty without much effort. So, grab your ingredients, and let’s get to it!
Why You’ll Love Simple Tuna Salad
This recipe isn’t just about the ingredients—it’s about making a healthy, tasty meal that you can enjoy at any time. Here’s why you’re going to love it:
Quick and Easy: Ready in under 10 minutes, this salad is perfect for busy weekdays or when you just don’t feel like cooking.
Healthy and Light: Packed with protein from the tuna and full of good-for-you ingredients, this tuna salad keeps you feeling full without being heavy.
Customizable: You can add or subtract ingredients based on what you have on hand. Love crunch? Add some celery or pickles. Want a little more protein? Throw in a boiled egg or some chickpeas.
Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a big batch, and you’ve got lunches ready for the next few days. It’s great to have on hand when you need something satisfying and quick.
Tasty on Anything: Serve it over greens, on whole-grain crackers, or in a wrap. Or just enjoy it on its own for a light snack!
Ingredients in Simple Tuna Salad
The best part about this salad? It’s made with just a few pantry staples, yet the flavors come together beautifully. Let’s take a look at what you’ll need:
Canned Tuna: The star of the show! I recommend using tuna packed in water for a lighter option, but oil-packed tuna adds a bit more richness if you prefer.
Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the salad that brings everything together. Use regular mayo for a classic flavor or opt for a lighter version if you’re looking to cut back on calories.
Dijon Mustard: Adds a nice tang and depth to the salad. It’s the secret ingredient that takes this from just a simple tuna salad to something special.
Celery: For that fresh crunch and a bit of texture.
Red Onion: A touch of sharpness and a little sweetness, balancing out the creamy mayo and mustard.
Lemon Juice: A squeeze of fresh lemon brightens up the flavors and adds a little zing.
Salt and Pepper: Just a pinch to season and bring all the flavors together.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Making this Simple Tuna Salad is as easy as it gets. Here’s how you’ll do it:
Drain the Tuna: Start by draining your can of tuna and placing it in a medium-sized bowl. Make sure to remove as much liquid as possible to avoid a watery salad.
Mix the Ingredients: Add mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, and a squeeze of lemon juice to the bowl with tuna. Stir everything together until it’s well combined and creamy.
Season: Sprinkle in a little salt and pepper to taste. Give it a final stir, and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve: Serve it immediately on a bed of greens, on crackers, in a sandwich, or however you prefer! Or store it in the fridge for later.
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 2-3
Calories per serving: [To be filled in]
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: None
Total Time: 5 minutes
How to Serve Simple Tuna Salad
This simple tuna salad is perfect for a variety of serving ideas. Here are some tasty suggestions to try:
On a Bed of Greens: For a light and refreshing lunch, serve your tuna salad on a bed of mixed greens or spinach.
With Crackers or Bread: Scoop this tuna salad onto whole-grain crackers for a snack or spread it onto a sandwich for a quick, satisfying meal.
In a Wrap: Make a healthy tuna wrap by spreading the salad in a whole-wheat wrap with some extra veggies like lettuce or cucumber.
As a Side Dish: Serve it as a side with your favorite meal. It pairs well with grilled chicken or a vegetable stir-fry.
Additional Tips
Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to mix in some chopped bell peppers, pickles, or even a little avocado for extra creaminess and flavor.
Make it Spicy: If you like a little heat, add some chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce for an extra kick.
Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. It’s a great make-ahead meal for busy weeks!
Use Greek Yogurt: For a lighter twist, swap out half or all of the mayo for Greek yogurt. It adds creaminess with a tangy bite!
Add Protein: Want to make it more filling? Add a boiled egg or a handful of chickpeas for extra protein.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different kind of tuna?
A1: Absolutely! You can use tuna packed in oil for a richer flavor, or swap it for canned salmon or chicken if you prefer.
Q2: Can I make this ahead of time?
A2: Yes, this tuna salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 2-3 days. It’s perfect for meal prep!
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a quick stir before serving.
Q4: Can I add other ingredients?
A4: Yes! Feel free to get creative with your ingredients. Add hard-boiled eggs, pickles, or even some cooked quinoa for extra texture and flavor.
Q5: Can I make this a low-carb dish?
A5: Yes, you can! Skip the bread or crackers and serve the tuna salad on a bed of lettuce or with cucumber slices for a refreshing low-carb option.
Q6: Can I use a dairy-free version of mayo?
A6: Yes, you can use dairy-free mayo if you’re avoiding dairy. It will still be just as creamy and delicious!
Q7: How do I make this spicier?
A7: For a spicy twist, add some chopped jalapeños, sriracha, or hot sauce to the salad.
Q8: How do I make this salad creamier?
A8: For extra creaminess, you can add more mayo or swap in some avocado to the mix.
Q9: Can I freeze this tuna salad?
A9: It’s not recommended to freeze tuna salad, as it may affect the texture of the mayo and veggies. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Q10: How can I make this a whole meal?
A10: Serve the tuna salad with a side of roasted veggies, a simple grain like quinoa, or some whole-wheat crackers to make it a balanced meal.
Conclusion
This Simple Tuna Salad is the definition of easy, healthy, and delicious! Whether you’re in need of a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a simple snack, this tuna salad is the perfect go-to. It’s customizable, quick to make, and full of flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to get in some protein without the hassle. So, gather your ingredients and whip up a batch today—you’ll love how simple, satisfying, and tasty it is!
Print
Simple Tuna Salad
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 hours
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Dessert
- Method: Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: British
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Slow Cooker Golden Syrup Sponge is a classic British dessert made effortless in the slow cooker! A soft, fluffy sponge infused with sweet golden syrup, perfect for cozy winter nights. Serve warm with custard or clotted cream for ultimate comfort.
Ingredients
- 150g golden syrup
- 175g soft butter
- 175g caster sugar
- 3 large eggs, at room temperature
- 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
- 175g self-raising flour
- 3–4 tablespoons whole milk
Instructions
- Preheat your slow cooker. Generously butter a 1.5 pint pudding basin, preferably with a lid. Pour the golden syrup into the bottom of the basin.
- Cream the butter and sugar together until light and fluffy.
- Beat in the eggs one at a time, ensuring each is fully incorporated before adding the next. Stir in the vanilla extract.
- Gently fold in the self-raising flour and milk using a metal spoon, adding just enough milk to achieve a soft, dropping consistency.
- Spoon the batter over the syrup in the basin. Cover with a small circle of tin foil and secure the basin’s lid.
- Place the basin into the slow cooker. Pour boiling water around the basin until it reaches halfway up the sides. Cover with the slow cooker lid and cook on high for 3½ to 4 hours.
- Carefully remove the basin using oven gloves. Tip the sponge onto a plate and serve warm with custard, clotted cream, or ice cream.
Notes
- Use a proper pudding basin with a secure lid to ensure the sponge steams evenly and stays moist.
- Check the water level halfway through cooking and top up with hot water if needed.
- Perfect for batch-making during the holidays!
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 35g
- Sodium: 190mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 1g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 5g
- Cholesterol: 125mg