The Absolutely Perfect Tuna Salad Sandwich (Even Your Nan Would Approve)

Craving a proper tuna fish salad recipe? This elevates the classic, creamy, tangy, and crunchy sandwich to legendary status. Ready in 15! Get the best tuna salad recipe here! ... Quick Meals
- Recipe Introduction: The Absolutely Perfect Tuna Salad Sandwich
- The Absolutely Perfect Tuna Salad Sandwich (Even Your Nan Would Approve) Recipe Card
- Ingredients & Equipment: Cracking on with the Best Tuna Salad Recipe
- Cooking the Perfect Tuna Salad Sandwich
- Recipe Notes for the Absolutely Perfect Tuna Fish Salad Recipe
- Frequently Asked Questions
Recipe Introduction: The Absolutely Perfect Tuna Salad Sandwich
Fancy a proper lunch? a truly great tuna fish salad recipe is a must. but let's be honest, many are just a bit.
..blah. remember those grey, sad-looking sandwiches from school? this ain't that! this is the best tuna salad recipe , inspired by classic british sarnies, but with a modern twist.
This classic tuna salad recipe takes the humble tuna sandwich to a whole new level. it's creamy, tangy, and has just the right amount of crunch.
It's also incredibly easy to make. we are talking the sort of filling that can be done in about 15 mins.
This recipe yields enough for 2 proper sandwiches or 4 snacky ones.
Why This Tuna Salad Is Your New Best Mate
Forget dry, boring tuna. this recipe is all about flavour and texture. this is the healthy tuna salad sandwich recipe you’ve been searching for.
Packed with protein and healthy fats, it's a guilt-free indulgence. plus, this creamy tuna salad can be easily customized. think about a picnic or lazy sunday lunch.
This tuna salad with egg is perfect.
A Nod to Tradition, A Leap to Deliciousness
The best tuna salad isn't just about throwing ingredients together. it's about balance. this recipe pays homage to the classic creamy tuna salad , whilst using fresh lemon juice and dill.
Ditch the dry and embrace the creamy. i've tried other fancy fillings, but always come back to this. i think you are gonna love it, it's a quick tuna salad lunch .
Next, we will dive into the ingredients. We will explore the tips to achieve that Tuna Salad Avocado flavor, as well as the Tuna Salad Sandwich Ideas to combine this delicious dish.
The Absolutely Perfect Tuna Salad Sandwich (Even Your Nan Would Approve) Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients & Equipment: Cracking on with the Best Tuna Salad Recipe
Right, let’s get down to brass tacks. what do you actually need to nail this tuna fish salad recipe ? honestly, the beauty of this is its simplicity.
It's so easy, even after a right proper night out, you could make it.
Main Ingredients for a Proper Classic Tuna Salad Recipe
Here's the lowdown on what you'll need for two generous portions. Remember, quality in equals quality out, especially with the tuna.
- Tuna: 2 (5 ounce/142g) cans, drained – go for tuna in olive oil for richness, but properly drain it
- Mayo: 1/4 cup (60ml) – full-fat's the bomb for flavour, but light works too
- Celery: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , finely diced – crunch is key
- Red Onion: 2 tablespoons (30ml) , finely diced – soak in ice water for 5 mins for less bite if you're a sensitive soul
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon (15ml) – for that zing
- Dill: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , chopped – fresh is best, mates
- Dijon Mustard: 1 teaspoon (5ml) – adds a certain je ne sais quoi
- Black Pepper: 1/4 teaspoon (1.25ml) , freshly ground – crucial
- Sea Salt: A pinch – to taste, innit
- Sweet Pickle Relish: 1 tablespoon (15ml) , optional – for extra tang
You know, my gran always said the secret to a creamy tuna salad was good mayo. She wasn't wrong! And the freshest dill going.
Seasoning Notes: Spice Up Your Healthy Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe
Don't be a boring Bertie! The key is balance. Lemon juice cuts through the richness. Dijon adds a subtle kick. A little sweet pickle relish brings some much-needed tang.
- Essential Spice Combo: Pepper and dill.
- Flavor Enhancers: Dijon mustard, lemon juice, sweet pickle relish
- Quick Subs: If no dill, a tiny bit of dried tarragon will do in a pinch. But seriously, dill is the way. If you want a Tuna Salad Avocado , mash in half an avocado instead of the mayo.
Equipment Needed: No Faffing About
Keep it simple, keep it clean.
- Mixing Bowl
- Chopping Board
- Knife
- Fork
- Measuring Spoons & Cups
- Can Opener
No fancy gadgets needed for this quick tuna salad lunch . a good knife and a decent bowl are your best friends.
Honestly, you can even use a spoon to mix if you're in a bind. so get cracking and enjoy the best tuna salad ever!.

Cooking the Perfect Tuna Salad Sandwich
So, you fancy a tuna fish salad recipe ? alright, let’s get down to it. everyone needs a best tuna salad recipe in their repertoire, right? it's proper comfort food.
My nan used to make the best , but honestly...it was a bit bland. this is not that. this is classic tuna salad recipe elevated.
Prep Like a Pro: The Essentials
First, mise en place . sounds fancy, yeah? it just means get your ducks in a row. drain those 2 cans ( 5 ounce/142g each ) of tuna like your life depends on it! seriously, soggy tuna is nobody's friend.
Then, finely dice ¼ cup celery and ¼ cup red onion. now, for the time-saving tip.
Honestly, i sometimes soak the red onion in ice water for 5 minutes . it takes away that harsh bite.
Not essential, but a game changer, if you ask me. safety wise? just mind your fingers with that knife, yeah?
Let's Get Cooking: Tuna Salad, Step-by-Step
Flake that beautifully drained tuna into your mixing bowl.
Add the diced celery and red onion to the tuna.
Now for the good stuff. mix in ¼ cup mayo, 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice, 1 tablespoon chopped dill, 1 teaspoon dijon mustard, ¼ teaspoon pepper, and a pinch of salt.
If you are trying tuna salad avocado or just want a healthy tuna salad sandwich recipe add 1 tablespoon of sweet pickle relish.
Gently mix everything! Don’t go mental; you want a little texture.
Taste! Does it need more salt? More tang? Now's your chance.
Spread that creamy goodness onto 2 slices of your favourite bread.
Add lettuce, tomato, or cucumber, if you're feeling fancy. Otherwise, just slap the other slice of bread on top.
Cut in half, and devour! Or chill it for 30 minutes to let the flavours get to know each other better and enjoy your quick tuna salad lunch .
Pro Tips for Tuna Salad Perfection
Want the best tuna salad ? here are some nuggets of wisdom. first, don't skimp on the mayo. full-fat really does make a difference.
Second, fresh dill is a must. dried stuff just doesn't cut it. you know? for extra flavour, try using tuna packed in olive oil.
Just remember to drain it really well. avoid overmixing. it makes the creamy tuna salad a bit sad and mushy.
If you're making this ahead of time, just keep it in the fridge until you're ready to assemble the tuna salad sandwich ideas .
You can also make-ahead options by simply storing it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
Honestly, making a tuna salad with egg is also possible. I hope you enjoy your avocado tuna salad recipe !
Recipe Notes for the Absolutely Perfect Tuna Fish Salad Recipe
Right then, let's dive into some extra bits about making this best tuna salad recipe . honestly, this isn't just slapping tuna and mayo together.
These little touches will make it amazing .
Plating Like a Pro (Almost!)
Presentation matters, you know? for a classic vibe, cut your tuna salad sandwich into triangles. serve it with a few crisps (walkers cheese and onion, obvs) on the side.
Fancy a bit of greenery? add a small side salad with a simple vinaigrette. and if you are feeling extra, some pickles are never a bad idea.
For drinks? a cup of tea, or a pint, why not?
Storage Secrets
Got leftovers? no worries. pop the tuna salad into an airtight container and keep it in the fridge. it's good for about 2-3 days .
Freezing? hmm, i wouldn’t recommend it. mayo doesn't freeze well. it gets all weird and separates. reheating isn't a thing with this recipe, it's best served cold.
Healthy Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe Remixes
Want to keep it clean? try this avocado tuna salad recipe ! swap out half the mayonnaise for mashed avocado.
Boom, healthy fats and creaminess! ditching the bread? use lettuce wraps instead! or try different breads like whole wheat or sourdough.
Nutrition Snippets
Each sandwich has roughly 450 calories, 30g of protein and 25g of fat. this creamy tuna salad is packed with protein from the tuna which is great for your muscles.
Plus, you get some healthy fats from the mayo (or avocado!).
So there you have it! My top tips for making the best tuna salad . Follow these bits of advice and you'll make a banging quick tuna salad lunch ! Enjoy, share and let me know how it goes!

Frequently Asked Questions
What's the best way to prevent my tuna fish salad recipe from being watery?
The key to a non-watery tuna salad is all in the draining! Ensure you drain the tuna really well. I'm talking properly squeezing out any excess liquid. You can even press it gently in a sieve to get rid of every last drop. This will stop it from becoming a soggy disaster – nobody wants that!
Can I make this tuna fish salad recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making it ahead of time is a pro move. Letting the tuna fish salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, allows the flavours to meld together beautifully. Just remember to store it in an airtight container in the fridge and give it a good stir before serving. It's like a fine wine – it only gets better with age (well, for a day or two anyway!).
What are some tasty variations I can try with this tuna salad recipe?
Fancy jazzing up your tuna salad? You bet! For a spicy kick, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favourite hot sauce. Or, go Mediterranean by mixing in sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a squeeze of extra lemon. You could even mash in half an avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats. The possibilities are endless, so get creative and find your perfect tuna salad remix!
How long does tuna fish salad last in the fridge?
For food safety reasons, it's best to consume tuna fish salad within 3-4 days of making it. Make sure to store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. If you notice any unusual smells or discoloration, it's always best to err on the side of caution and toss it. Don't risk a dodgy tummy for the sake of a sandwich!
Is tuna fish salad healthy? What are the nutritional benefits?
Tuna fish salad can be a nutritious option as tuna is a great source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. However, the healthiness depends on the ingredients you use. Opting for light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt instead of full-fat mayo, and adding plenty of veggies like celery and red onion can boost the nutritional value. Just be mindful of the sodium content and adjust accordingly!
What's the best bread to use for a tuna salad sandwich?
That’s down to personal preference, really! A good sourdough brings a nice tang and chewiness, while white bread provides a classic, comforting base. Whole wheat bread adds a bit of fibre and nuttiness. Lightly toasting the bread adds a nice crunch, no matter what you choose. Experiment to find your perfect pairing! Croissants are also amazing.