This is a flavor-packed recipe. I admit, there are days when I grab a can of tuna, add some mayo and celery salt, and am done! But there are also times that I want the most satisfying and delicious tuna salad sandwich ever… and this recipe fits the bill.
To this recipe, I add mayonnaise, seasonings, and shallots. The crunch comes from the onions, so I do recommend picking the best (freshest) shallot you can find.
The easiest way to make a tuna salad sandwich is to prepare the tuna salad, get your bread, and start layering. Our favorite (and the most classic way of eating it) is to grab a piece of bread (not toast!), lay lettuce on the bread, scoop the tuna salad on top of the lettuce, add sliced tomato, and then cover with another piece of bread. Serve with some chips or fries and you are good to go!
How to Make Tuna Salad
Easy ingredients combine to create what I am sure will be your FAVORITE tuna salad recipe!
The formula could not be easier: Prepare, Combine, Assemble, Enjoy! I like to chop all the shallots, pickles, and garlic and then start the assembling process. I also like to make each sandwich upon request. The longer the tuna salad sits on the bread the soggier it may be.
What Kind of Tuna to Use
I prefer using a tuna canned in water. When you are draining the tuna prior to use, as most recipes will recommend, you could lose some of the flavor if it was packed in oil. Tuna packed in oil can absorb some of the flavor of the tuna.
In general, water-packed is usually what folks choose because it has fewer calories and retains more omega-3s. Not to mention it can taste “fresher”. One thing that I highly recommend is to make sure that you fully drain the water from the packed tuna. Extra moisture in the tuna salad is not typically considered a good thing. A watery tuna salad mixture will make the sandwich a little sloppy and could also make the bread soggy.
How Long Does Tuna Salad Last?
This recipe makes a lot of sandwiches, so you may need to refrigerate the leftovers. To maximize the shelf life of tuna salad for safety (and make sure it still tastes good!), refrigerate it in an airtight container for up to 3-5 days.
Tuna Salad Ingredient Variations
The great thing about tuna salad is that it can be changed up based on what you have on hand. Keep the ratios the same as the recipe below but swap out what you love.
Greek Yogurt– Replace the mayo with yogurt for a healthier and lighter option.
Red Onion– I prefer shallots as they have a wonderful onion flavor but are not overpowering. Some folks really prefer a strong onion flavor and opt for red onion or even a sweet onion.
Celery– If you want even more crunch and texture you can add in chopped celery.
Croissants– My favorite way to eat tuna salad! However, I have to remember to buy them special because it’s not something we normally have on hand. Our next favorite option is 12-grain bread, but in truth, any sandwich bread will work!
Make it a Wrap – Completely change the game by making it a tuna salad wrap. We use a flour tortilla, some romaine lettuce leaves, tomato, sometimes some extra pickle, and wrap it all up! This is also a great alternative if you are taking these on a picnic because the tortilla holds everything together nicely.
Feel free to get creative and add/replace your own favorite ingredients.
INGREDIENTS
- 4 cans (20 ounces) tuna, drained
- 1 cup (239g) mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup shallot, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons dill pickle, finely diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 head romaine lettuce
- 1 medium tomato, sliced
- sliced bread of your choice
INSTRUCTIONS
In a medium bowl, combine tuna, mayonnaise, shallot, pickle, lemon juice, and garlic. Add salt and pepper to taste. (You could also add a little celery salt for added flavor.)
Lay a piece of bread on your plate (or slice a croissant) and top with lettuce, tuna mixture, and then a slice of tomato.
Serve Immediately.
