Raise your hand if you grew up eating tuna salad sandwiches. Most of us probably did, right? Well, for those who didn’t, there’s a special comfort in that can of tuna that many of us cherish.
A Simple Pleasure
I remember as a child, enjoying tuna or peanut butter and jelly sandwiches atop Mt. Chocorua in New Hampshire after a day’s climb with camp friends. Paired with oranges and a Hershey bar for dessert, it was pure joy.
Nowadays, that same tuna salad sandwich brings as much comfort and nostalgia. No need for fancy additions—just a simple, classic tuna salad is all I need. This means canned tuna, mayo, celery, lemon juice, and optionally, red onion. Slather it on good bread, and I’m transported back to those happy childhood moments. Today, I’ll enjoy my sandwich on the back porch, soaking up the sunshine.
Choosing the Best Tuna
Any canned or jarred tuna works for a sandwich, as long as you drain it well. I prefer water-packed tuna for tuna salad since I’m already adding mayonnaise. Oil-packed tuna is richer and better suited for dishes like Salad Niçoise. However, tuna salad is flexible—use what you have on hand.
Swaps and Suggestions for Tuna Salad
While I stick to mayo, feel free to use Miracle Whip, light mayo, or even Greek yogurt with a splash of lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
Toasting your bread is optional. Sometimes I crave a bit of crunch, while other times I enjoy the softness of untoasted bread.
No bread at home? Try saltines, biscuits, or homemade soda bread instead.
Tuna Salad Add-Ins and Variations
The beauty of a basic recipe is its adaptability. Start with my Classic Tuna Salad recipe, and experiment with these add-ins:
– Capers
– Olives
– Chopped pickles
– Chopped apples
– Chopped fennel
– Diced bell peppers (any color)
– Pickled jalapeños
– Grated carrots
– Mustard
– Scallions
You can also enhance it with herbs and spices like:
– Thyme
– Oregano
– Smoked paprika
– Fresh parsley
– Fresh dill
Serving Suggestions
Beyond the classic sandwich, here are some other delicious ways to enjoy tuna salad:
– Tuna Melt: A grilled cheese sandwich with tuna salad, cheese, and golden, crispy bread.
– Tuna Wrap: Use a tortilla, add cheese and tuna salad, fold like a burrito, and grill.
– Pita or Flatbread Wrap: Add greens, sliced tomatoes, or cucumbers for a fresh twist.
– Tuna Salad on Greens: Serve over a bed of greens with extra vegetables.
– Snack: Pair tuna salad with crackers or celery sticks.
– Healthy Lunch: Top your greens with a scoop of tuna salad.
Storing Tuna Salad
Store leftover tuna salad in an airtight container in the fridge for three to five days. This keeps it fresh and prevents other refrigerator odors from mingling with the tuna.
Enjoy your classic tuna salad, whether it brings back fond memories or creates new ones!