Best Tuna Salad Recipe

Make this quick and easy recipe for the All-Time Best Tuna Salad! Flakey tuna is mixed with simple ingredients and a creamy dressing with a bright hint of lemon. It will soon become your go-to tuna salad recipe for lunch or a light dinner.

Cool, easy-to-make salads like Mom’s Egg Salad and Southern Ham Salad are two of my favorites when it comes to flavorful versatile recipes.

Tuna salad placed on a green lead of lettuce sitting on a place with fresh lemon slices. Make this quick and easy recipe for the All-Time Best Tuna Salad! Flakey tuna is mixed with simple ingredients and a creamy dressing with a bright hint of lemon. It will soon become your go-to tuna salad recipe for lunch or a light dinner.

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Sometimes, simple classic recipes are just the thing to make us happy. You know, food that’s made with really good ingredients that shine on their own.

That’s what I want when I think of Tuna Fish Salad. I’ve been making my version of tuna salad for years, so I’m confident in calling it the all-time best. It’s not fancy or pretentious. It’s just good. Really, really good.

Tuna Salad Ingredients

Ingredients for tuna salad on a cutting board. Tuna, salt, pepper. eggs, mayonnaise, red onion, celery, lemon juice and celery seed.

Water-packed Tuna – I use high-quality canned tuna, but you can also use oil-packed tuna if you prefer.
Boiled Eggs- Add a rich and creamy texture.
Celery- Provides the perfect crunch.
Onions- In addition to adding more crunch, onions also add a bit of zing.
Mayonnaise- Ties everything together while creating a creamy base.
Lemon Juice- A splash of lemon juice adds a bit of tang (and sunshine).
Celery Seeds- Combined with the other seasonings, this tuna salad has an amazing flavor.
Salt and Pepper- Bring all the flavors together.

Additions and Variations

Take your tuna salad up a notch with a Southern twist – toss in some finely chopped pecans for a crunchy, nutty goodness.
Give your tuna salad a sweet touch by infusing the mayo with a dash of sweet pickle relish or dill pickles for a zesty kick.
If you like it tangy, add some Dijon mustard.
Toss in avocados, cucumbers, or tomatoes for a veggie vibe.
Fresh herbs like parsley, and chives add brightness.

How to Make the Best Tuna Salad (Ever!)

Step 1 – Add tuna, eggs, celery, red onion, and celery seed to a medium bowl.

Step 2 – In a small bowl or jar, add mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix or shake together.

Last but not least – Stir to combine, then taste to adjust the seasoning. Serve immediately or store covered in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How To Serve Easy Classic Tuna Salad

It makes a great lunch served on a bed of lettuce with a few crackers (Spicy Ranch Crackers are my fav) and a helping of Sweet Heat Pickles. I love it as a dip with potato or tortilla chips.

Make a delicious tuna sandwich on toasted Beer Bread with lettuce and tomato. If you want to up your tuna salad with egg game even further, pile it on bread, add a slice of sharp cheddar cheese, then put it under the broiler for a minute or two for the ultimate Tuna Melt.

Tunsa salad placed on a green lead of lettuce sitting on a place with fresh lemon slices.

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Questions And Answers For Easy Tuna Salad

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a healthier option?

Absolutely! Substituting Greek yogurt for mayo adds a tangy twist and a dose of creaminess while keeping it light and healthy.

What kind of tuna works best in this recipe?

I like to use tuna packed in water in a foil pouch. If you want to use tuna packed in oil, just cut back on the mayo.

Do I need to drain the tuna?

Yes. Draining the tuna keeps the mixture from becoming wet and soggy.

Can I substitute chicken for tuna?

Sure, use leftover or canned chicken to make chicken salad.

Craving More? Try These Salad Recipes

If you tried this Tuna Salad Recipe or any other recipe, please leave a 🌟 star rating and let me know how it went in the comments below. Thanks!