Neiman-Marcus Tuna-Pecan Salad With Water Chestnuts
A creamy, crunchy tuna salad with pecans and water chestnuts, perfect for light lunches or elegant gatherings, offering a delightful mix of textures and flavors.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl, mixing well to evenly distribute and coat with mayonnaise.
- Adjust seasoning with salt and white pepper to taste.
- If the salad is dry, add a bit more mayonnaise and mix again.
Tips & Substitutions
For extra flavor, consider adding a tablespoon of Dijon mustard or a squeeze of lemon juice to the mayonnaise. If you're looking for a crunchier texture, substitute the pecans with walnuts or almonds. For a lighter version, use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. This salad pairs well with crusty bread or on a bed of lettuce for a refreshing meal.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the tuna-pecan salad chilled, either on its own or as a filling for a sandwich. It also makes a great topping for crackers or a fresh green salad. For a complete meal, pair it with a side of Harvest Salad or some crispy vegetable sticks. A glass of chilled white wine can complement the flavors nicely.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Before serving, give the salad a good stir and check the consistency; if it's too thick, you can add a little more mayonnaise to revive it. Avoid freezing this salad, as the texture of the tuna and mayonnaise may change.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Neiman-Marcus Tuna-Pecan Salad With Water Chestnuts contains roughly 1350 calories, with 17g protein, 26g carbohydrates, and 141g fat. It is an excellent source of dietary fiber (63% of the Daily Value), protein (33% of the Daily Value), and iron (26% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 606mg per serving (26% 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 make this salad in advance?
Yes, you can prepare this salad a day ahead. Just cover and refrigerate it. The flavors will meld wonderfully, but be sure to check the consistency before serving and add more mayonnaise if necessary.
What type of tuna is best for this recipe?
Canned white albacore tuna is recommended for its mild flavor and firm texture. However, you can also use chunk light tuna if you prefer a more economical option. Just make sure it's well-drained before mixing it into the salad.
Can I add other ingredients to this salad?
Absolutely! Feel free to customize the salad by adding ingredients like diced bell peppers, chopped pickles, or even chopped boiled eggs for added protein. Just keep the balance in mind so the salad doesn’t become too crowded or watery.
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).