Description

This creamy tuna salad recipe is elevated with quick-pickled red onions, offering a fresh, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with toast or lettuce wraps.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans (5 oz each) solid white albacore tuna, well-drained
0.5 cup high-quality mayonnaise
1 stalk celery, finely diced
1 small red onion, thinly sliced
0.5 cup apple cider vinegar
0.5 cup water
1 tablespoon granulated sugar
0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt, plus more for seasoning
0.25 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
0.25 cup fresh dill, finely chopped, for garnish

Instructions

Prepare Pickled Red Onions: In a small saucepan, bring apple cider vinegar, water, sugar, and 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt to a simmer, stirring until dissolved. Pour the hot liquid over the sliced red onions in a heatproof bowl. Let cool to room temperature (15-20 minutes), then steep for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavor.
Prepare Tuna Base: Drain the canned tuna thoroughly, pressing out all excess water. Transfer the drained tuna to a medium mixing bowl and gently flake with a fork.
Assemble Tuna Salad: Add the finely diced celery, mayonnaise, 0.5 teaspoon fine sea salt, and black pepper to the flaked tuna. Drain the pickled onions and add them to the bowl. Mix gently until all ingredients are well combined and creamy.
Garnish and Serve: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve on toast or in lettuce cups, garnished with reserved pickled red onion slices and fresh dill.

Notes

Ensure the tuna is thoroughly drained to prevent a watery salad. For a lighter version, substitute full-fat plain Greek yogurt for mayonnaise. Avoid overmixing to keep the texture appealing. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Mixing
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 cup (200 g)
Calories: 250 calories
Sugar: 1 g
Sodium: 600 mg
Fat: 20 g
Saturated Fat: 3 g
Unsaturated Fat: 17 g
Trans Fat: 0 g
Carbohydrates: 5 g
Fiber: 1 g
Protein: 15 g
Cholesterol: 35 mg

Keywords: tuna salad, quick pickled onions, easy lunch, healthy, low-carb, high protein, creamy, dinner idea