Classic Tuna Salad with Crunchy Celery & Dill

Name: Classic Tuna Salad with Crunchy Celery & Dill
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 2 cans tuna (drained, oil-packed or water-packed); 1/2 cup mayonnaise (adjust to taste); 1 stalk of celery (finely chopped); 1/4 cup red onion (finely chopped); 1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed); 1 tbsp fresh dill (chopped); 1/4 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/4 tsp black pepper (freshly ground)

15 min 4 servings Easy

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Classic Tuna Salad with Crunchy Celery & Dill

A benchmark recipe for creamy tuna salad with the perfect mayo-to-tuna ratio, celery crunch, and a hint of lemon and dill.

Prep

15 min

Total

15 min

Servings

Difficulty

Easy

Tuna salad is a classic dish that offers simplicity and satisfaction, making it an ideal choice for a quick meal or a light snack. The key to a great tuna salad lies in balancing flavours and textures: creamy mayonnaise, crunchy celery, and the fresh zing of lemon and dill. Whether you're using water-packed or oil-packed canned tuna, the right preparation can elevate your dish. This recipe provides a fail-proof method to achieve the perfect tuna salad that can be enjoyed on its own, as a sandwich filling, or over a fresh bed of greens.

Ingredients

Servings

Tuna Salad

Instructions

Prepare the Tuna

Open the cans of tuna and drain thoroughly. Use a sieve to press out excess liquid.

Pro tip: Draining well prevents a watery salad.

Mix the Base

In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.

Pro tip: Use a fork to break up any large chunks of tuna.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the chopped celery and red onion, ensuring they are evenly distributed.

Pro tip: For extra crunch, add more celery.

Season the Salad

Add the chopped dill, salt, and black pepper, mixing until all ingredients are incorporated.

Pro tip: Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Chill the Salad

Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavours to meld.

Pro tip: Chilling enhances the flavour and texture.

Serve

Serve the tuna salad chilled, on bread, with crackers, or over a salad.

Pro tip: Garnish with additional dill if desired.

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Tips & Tricks

<ul><li>Drain tuna thoroughly to avoid watery salad.</li><li>Adjust mayo-to-tuna ratio to taste.</li><li>Chill the salad before serving for better flavour.</li><li>Use fresh dill for the best aroma and taste.</li></ul>

Serving Suggestions

This classic tuna salad is versatile and can be made ahead of time. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to keep it fresh. Pair it with whole-grain bread for a hearty sandwich or serve it with crackers for a lighter option. Adding a few slices of tomato or avocado can also bring an extra layer of flavour and nutrition, making it a well-rounded meal. Enjoy your tuna salad as a refreshing lunch or a quick dinner option.