Go Back
Close-up of classic tuna salad showing creamy texture, flaked fish, celery, and fresh dill — tuna salad recipe
Abdul Rehman

Classic Tuna Salad Recipe

A creamy, tangy tuna salad made with well-drained canned tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, and fresh lemon juice. Ready in 10 minutes with no cooking. Works as a sandwich filling, cracker topper, or served in lettuce cups.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Lunch / Salad
Cuisine: American
Calories: 187
Ingredients Method

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cans 5 oz / 140g each tuna in water, well drained
  • 1/3 cup 75g mayonnaise
  • 2 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
  • 2 stalks celery finely diced
  • 2 tbsp red onion very finely minced
  • 2 tbsp sweet pickle relish
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper freshly ground
  • 1/4 tsp salt or to taste
  • 1 tbsp fresh dill chopped (optional)

Method
 

  1. Open both tuna cans and press the lid firmly against the fish over the sink for 30 seconds. Drain through a fine-mesh sieve and press again until the tuna feels dry.
  2. In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust before adding anything else.
  3. Add the drained tuna. Use a fork to flake it into the dressing while folding — not stirring.
  4. Add the celery, red onion, relish, and dill. Fold until evenly combined.
  5. Taste and adjust lemon juice or salt as needed. Refrigerate for 20 minutes before serving if time allows.