Late Supper Salad
A refreshing late-night salad featuring tuna, macaroni, peas, and eggs, dressed with onion juice and mayonnaise. Perfect for a quick, satisfying meal or casual gathering.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine shredded tuna fish, chopped hard-cooked eggs, cold cooked macaroni, drained canned peas, chopped celery, onion juice, salt, and chopped pickles in a bowl.
- Add mayonnaise gradually and mix well until the salad is moistened to your liking.
- Chill thoroughly in the refrigerator.
- Serve on crisp lettuce nests and garnish with paprika.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider adding a dollop of Greek yogurt along with the mayonnaise. If you're looking to lighten the dish, substitute the tuna with chickpeas for a vegetarian version. Fresh herbs like dill or parsley can enhance the flavor profile. To save time, use pre-cooked macaroni from the store. This salad is also delicious with a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the salad on crisp lettuce nests for an appealing presentation. It pairs wonderfully with fresh fruit or a light soup as a side. For a complete meal, consider adding a piece of crusty bread or crackers. This dish makes for a perfect late supper or light lunch, as it can be prepared ahead of time and enjoyed chilled.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will meld together nicely as it chills. If the salad thickens after being stored, simply stir in a bit of additional mayonnaise or yogurt to restore creaminess before serving. Avoid freezing as it may alter the texture of the ingredients.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Late Supper Salad contains roughly 329 calories, with 8g protein, 62g carbohydrates, and 6g fat. It is a good source of protein (15% of the Daily Value), calcium (14% of the Daily Value), and iron (10% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2167mg per serving (94% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Yes, you can definitely use fresh cooked tuna for a fresher taste. Just ensure it's well-drained and flaked before adding it to the salad. This substitution may add a richer flavor and a bit more moisture, making the salad even more enjoyable.
Is there a vegetarian option for this salad?
Absolutely! You can replace the tuna with chickpeas or a mix of your favorite beans for a hearty vegetarian version. Additionally, you can use diced avocado for creaminess while keeping it plant-based. This way, you can still enjoy a satisfying meal.
How can I make this salad more flavorful?
To enhance the flavor, consider adding ingredients like diced pickles, capers, or even a splash of hot sauce. Herbs such as dill, chives, or parsley can also elevate the taste. Additionally, using a seasoned mayonnaise or adding a touch of mustard can bring more depth to the overall flavor.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).