Very Basic Tuna Salad
A quick, creamy tuna salad with crunchy celery and sweet relish, perfect for sandwiches or stuffed in tomatoes, ideal for a light, satisfying meal or snack.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Combine all ingredients in a bowl.
- Chill the mixture until ready to serve.
- Serve on sandwiches or stuffed in a tomato.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier texture, consider substituting half of the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. If you prefer a bit more crunch, add diced bell peppers or red onions. For a touch of flavor, mix in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard. This tuna salad also makes a delicious filling for Tuna Salad Sandwich Filling, perfect for a quick lunch.
Serving Suggestions
This tuna salad is versatile and can be served on whole grain bread for sandwiches or stuffed in hollowed-out tomatoes for a fresh presentation. Pair it with a side of mixed greens or crispy potato chips for a satisfying meal. It also goes well with pickles or olives for an added tangy bite.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftover tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you need to reheat it, be sure to do so gently in the microwave, as the texture can change if heated too much. It's best enjoyed cold, so consider serving it straight from the fridge.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Very Basic Tuna Salad contains roughly 94 calories, with 11g protein, 13g carbohydrates, and 1g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (21% of the Daily Value), and a good source of potassium and vitamin C. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 592mg 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 use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, you can use fresh tuna! Just cook it until flaky and let it cool before mixing with the other ingredients. Fresh tuna has a different texture, so you might want to adjust the mayonnaise accordingly to achieve your desired creaminess.
How can I make this salad healthier?
To make this tuna salad healthier, try using low-fat or Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise. You can also increase the vegetable content by adding diced cucumbers or bell peppers, which will add crunch and extra nutrients without many calories.
What can I do if I don't have sweet pickle relish?
If you don't have sweet pickle relish, you can substitute it with finely chopped dill pickles or even a bit of honey mixed with chopped cucumbers. This will provide a similar sweetness and crunch that complements the tuna.
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).