Best Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe
If you’re looking for the ultimate comfort food sandwich, The Best Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe is just what you need! This classic dish combines creamy, flavorful tuna salad with the perfect blend of seasonings, sandwiched between soft, fresh bread. It’s quick to make, endlessly satisfying, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or even a picnic. One bite, and you’ll see why this timeless favorite is loved by everyone!
What are the benefits of eating tuna SALAD?
- Packed with protein: Tuna gives me a healthy dose of protein, keeping me full and energized throughout the day.
- Rich in omega-3s: It’s a great way to boost heart and brain health with those essential omega-3 fatty acids.
- Quick and versatile: Tuna is so convenient, whether I’m making a salad, sandwich, or adding it to pasta.
INGREDIENTS YOU’LL NEED:
- 4 (5-oz Cans) Albacore Tuna (drained well): The main ingredient, packed with protein and a mild, delicious flavor.
- 2 Stalks Celery (finely diced): Adds a nice crunch and a bit of freshness.
- 4 Tbsp Red Onion (minced): Brings a little zesty kick and some color.
- 2/3 Cup Mayo: Makes the salad creamy and holds everything together.
- 2 Tbsp Dill Relish: Adds a tangy, slightly sweet flavor and a bit of texture.
- 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice: Gives a fresh, citrusy brightness to the mix.
- 2 Tbsp Parsley (freshly chopped): Adds color and a hint of herbal flavor.
- 2 Tsp Yellow Mustard: A little tangy kick to boost the flavor.
- ¼ Tsp Dry Dill: Adds a light, earthy touch.
- ¼ Tsp Garlic Powder: Brings a mild savory flavor to round things out.
- Salt and Fresh Ground Black Pepper (to taste): The perfect finishing touch to enhance all the flavors.
HOW TO PREPARE THIS DELICIOUS EASY TUNA SALAD?
Time needed: 15 minutes
- Prepare the tuna:
Open and drain the cans of albacore tuna thoroughly, pressing gently to remove excess liquid. Transfer the tuna to a large mixing bowl and flake it apart with a fork. - Combine all Ingredients:
Finely dice 2 stalks of celery and mince 4 tablespoons of red onion. Add them to the bowl with the tuna for a fresh crunch and a bit of flavor.
In the same bowl, stir in 2/3 cup mayo, 2 tablespoons dill relish, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 teaspoons yellow mustard, and 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley. Mix everything together until evenly combined.
Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of dry dill, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well, tasting and adjusting the seasoning if needed.
- Chill and Enjoy:
For the best flavor, let the tuna salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
Use the tuna salad to make sandwiches, wraps, or serve over a bed of greens for a light and delicious meal!
FAQ – FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Classic choices include whole wheat or white sandwich bread, crescent, or multigrain bread. For added crunch, consider using toasted bread.
Ensure that the canned tuna is well-drained and gradually add the mayonnaise.
Yes, tuna salad can be prepared ahead of time. However, it’s recommended to add fresh ingredients like lemon juice and herbs just before serving to maintain their flavors.
Aside from the classic sandwich, you can serve tuna salad on crackers, in lettuce wraps, or as a topping for a green salad. Get creative with your recipe presentation!
HOW LONG CAN LEFTOVER TUNA BE STORED IN THE REFRIGERATOR?
Leftover tuna can be safely stored in the refrigerator for about 3 to 4 days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container or wrap it tightly in plastic wrap before storing. It’s crucial to refrigerate it promptly after cooking or opening to keep it fresh and prevent any potential spoilage. For the best results, store the tuna in the coldest part of your fridge. Always check for any signs of spoilage, such as a strange smell, slimy texture, or unusual color, and discard it if you notice any. Proper storage helps ensure your leftover tuna stays safe to eat and maintains its quality until you’re ready to enjoy it again.
TASTY TUNA SALAD RECIPE ADD-INS AND VARIATIONS:
- Swap the tuna: Sometimes I use canned salmon or shredded rotisserie chicken instead of tuna. It gives a new twist to the same creamy goodness.
- Try Greek yogurt: When I want to lighten things up, I replace some or all of the mayo with plain Greek yogurt. It’s tangy and still super creamy.
- Add a crunch: If I’m out of celery, I’ll toss in diced bell peppers or chopped pickles for that satisfying crunch.
- Spice it up: I like to sprinkle in a little cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce when I’m craving a bit of heat.
- Switch the herbs: Instead of parsley and dill, I’ve tried adding fresh chives, basil, or cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Make it sweeter: Sometimes, I mix in sweet relish instead of dill relish when I’m in the mood for a sweeter touch.
WHAT IS COMMON TO SERVE WITH CREAMY TUNA SAlAD?
Creamy tuna salad is versatile and pairs well with various dishes. It’s delicious as a sandwich filling between toasted bread or served on a bed of crisp lettuce leaves. You can also enjoy it with crackers or as a topping for whole grain toast. For a fresh twist, serve it alongside sliced cucumbers, cherry tomatoes, or carrot sticks. Whether you’re packing it for a picnic, enjoying it for lunch, or needing a quick snack, creamy tuna salad offers plenty of tasty options to suit your cravings.
HOW IS LEFTOVER TUNA SALAD STORED FOR LATER?
To store leftover tuna salad, I transfer it to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about 3 to 4 days, as long as it’s properly sealed to lock in the flavor and keep out moisture. Before serving, I give it a quick stir to refresh the texture, especially if the dressing has settled a bit. It’s perfect for a quick sandwich or wrap the next day!
Looking for more easy Salad recipes? Try these!
The Best Green Goddess Salad: It’s packed with fresh cabbage, cucumbers, and spinach, tossed with green onions, and the most flavorful Green Goddess salad dressing. If you love chopped salads, you are going to love The Best Green Salad.
The Best Big Mac Cheeseburger Salad: Following a low-carb diet and are craving a Big Mac sandwich this should help because I mean, what’s not to love? Not only does it taste like a Big Mac, but it’s homemade, low-carb, and the best part is the components of this recipe can be prepared ahead of time.
Quinoa Salad (Famous Jennifer Aniston Salad): Quinoa Salad is made with cucumbers, feta cheese, red onion, and a simple vinaigrette. The Jennifer Aniston Quinoa Salad is fresh, crunchy, and packed with plant-based protein and crunchy chickpeas.
The Best Tuna Salad Sandwich
Equipment
- Large Mixing Bowl
Ingredients
- 4 (5-oz Cans) Albacore Tuna (drained well)
- 2 Stalks Celery (finely diced)
- 4 Tbsp Red Onion (minced)
- 2/3 Cup Mayo
- 2 Tbsp Dill Relish
- 2 Tbsp Lemon Juice
- 2 Tbsp Parsley freshly chopped
- 2 Tsp Yellow Mustard
- ¼ Tsp Dry Dill
- ¼ Tsp Garlic Powder
- Salt and Fresh Ground Black Pepper (to taste)
Instructions
- Prepare the tuna: Open and drain the cans of albacore tuna thoroughly, pressing gently to remove excess liquid. Transfer the tuna to a large mixing bowl and flake it apart with a fork.
- Add the veggies: Finely dice 2 stalks of celery and mince 4 tablespoons of red onion. Add them to the bowl with the tuna for a fresh crunch and a bit of flavor.
- Mix the creamy base: In the same bowl, stir in 2/3 cup mayo, 2 tablespoons dill relish, 2 tablespoons lemon juice, 2 teaspoons yellow mustard, and 2 tablespoons freshly chopped parsley. Mix everything together until evenly combined.
- Season the salad: Sprinkle in ¼ teaspoon of dry dill, ¼ teaspoon garlic powder, and a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper. Stir well, tasting and adjusting the seasoning if needed.
- Chill before serving: For the best flavor, let the tuna salad rest in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving.
- Enjoy: Use the tuna salad to make sandwiches, wraps, or serve over a bed of greens for a light and delicious meal!