Can I make Creamy Tuna Salad ahead of time?

Yes and it keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

You can use all Greek yogurt or mashed avocado for a lighter twist though the texture will be a little less rich.

How do I keep tuna salad from getting watery?

Drain the tuna very well and avoid adding extra lemon juice beyond the listed amount.

Can I serve this in sandwiches or wraps?

Yes and it works well in sandwiches and wraps and lettuce cups or spooned over greens.

Creamy Tuna Salad Easy Lunch Recipe

Description

This Creamy Tuna Salad is an easy and quick lunch that feels simple yet satisfying while still being one of the best healthy ideas for meal prep and brunch and potluck tables. Tender tuna mixes with crisp celery and onion in a creamy dressing that tastes fresh and balanced. It is a simple recipe to keep on hand for busy days when you want easy ideas that come together fast and still feel homemade and filling.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans 5 ounces each drained canned tuna
1/3 cup mayonnaise
2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
1 tablespoon lemon juice
2 stalks finely chopped celery
1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
1 tablespoon sweet pickle relish
2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
4 leaves for serving lettuce leaves

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Instructions

Finely chopped celery and red onion and parsley create the first clear texture change while the drained tuna is broken into soft uneven flakes so the mixture starts to look ready for folding rather than straight from the package.
Mayonnaise and Greek yogurt and Dijon and lemon juice and relish and salt and pepper are blended into a thick pale dressing that looks smooth yet slightly rippled with tiny specks and a glossy creamy finish.
The flaked tuna and chopped vegetables are folded into the dressing so the mixture changes from a smooth sauce into a chunky salad with visible white tuna and green celery and purple onion scattered through every scoop.
The finished tuna salad is spooned onto lettuce leaves so the structure changes again into a plated serving with soft mounded scoops and uneven edges and visible bits of celery and onion for a fresh and natural final look.

Notes

Pro Tips:

Drain the tuna well so the dressing stays creamy instead of watery.
Chop the celery and onion finely so every bite stays balanced.
Let the salad chill for 10 minutes if you want the flavors to settle and blend.
Add lemon juice right before mixing so the salad tastes bright and fresh.

Storage: Store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator and keep the lettuce separate so it stays crisp and fresh. The salad is best within 3 days and a quick stir before serving helps bring the creamy texture back together if any liquid settles.

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minute
Category: Lunch
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving