Apple tuna salad is a refreshing and flavorful twist on the classic tuna salad. With the crunch of crisp apples, the tang of lemon juice, and the creaminess of mayonnaise, this dish is perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or light dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy: Comes together in just minutes with pantry staples.
- Healthy and satisfying: Packed with protein, fiber, and healthy fats.
- Versatile: Perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or as a salad topper.
- Sweet and savory: The apples add a delightful crunch and natural sweetness.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Canned tuna, drained
- Crisp apple (such as Honeycrisp or Granny Smith), diced
- Celery, chopped
- Red onion, finely diced (optional)
- Mayonnaise
- Dijon mustard
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
- Optional: Chopped nuts (like walnuts or almonds) and fresh parsley for garnish
Directions
- Prepare the ingredients: Drain the tuna and place it in a mixing bowl. Dice the apple, celery, and onion, then add them to the bowl.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Combine everything: Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and gently stir until well combined.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately as a sandwich filling, wrap, or on a bed of greens. Garnish with nuts or parsley if desired.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 2-3
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Greek Yogurt Substitute: Replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Avocado Twist: Mash an avocado and use it as a creamy, healthy alternative to mayonnaise.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
- Sweet Touch: Mix in dried cranberries or raisins for added sweetness.
- Nutty Flavor: Add chopped walnuts or pecans for a crunchy texture.
Storage/Reheating
- Storage: Store leftover apple tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
- Reheating: This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating.
FAQs
What type of tuna is best for this recipe?
Solid white albacore tuna works well for its firm texture, but chunk light tuna is also a good option.
Can I use a different type of apple?
Yes, use your favorite apple variety. Granny Smith adds tartness, while Honeycrisp or Fuji offers more sweetness.
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
This recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as the mayonnaise you use is dairy-free.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator until ready to serve.
What’s the best way to serve this salad?
It’s great on its own, in a sandwich, wrap, or served on crackers as an appetizer.
Can I add more vegetables?
Absolutely! Cucumbers, bell peppers, or shredded carrots make great additions.
How do I prevent the apples from browning?
Toss the apple pieces in lemon juice before mixing them into the salad.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just ensure any bread or crackers used for serving are also gluten-free.
Can I freeze this salad?
No, freezing is not recommended as the texture of the mayonnaise and fresh ingredients will change.
Can I double this recipe for a larger group?
Yes, simply double the ingredients while keeping the proportions consistent.
Conclusion
Apple tuna salad is a delicious and versatile dish that’s both nutritious and easy to make. With its perfect balance of flavors and textures, it’s ideal for quick meals, picnics, or snacks. Give this recipe a try and enjoy a delightful twist on a classic favorite!
Print
Apple Tuna Salad Recipe
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salads
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This Apple Tuna Salad combines the creamy texture of classic tuna salad with the crisp, sweet crunch of fresh apples. Perfect for a quick lunch, light dinner, or even as a sandwich filling, this healthy and refreshing recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna (drained)
- 1 medium apple (chopped, any variety – Granny Smith or Honeycrisp work well)
- 1/4 cup celery (chopped)
- 2 tablespoons red onion (finely chopped, optional)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon plain Greek yogurt (optional, for a tangy touch)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons chopped parsley or dill (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients: In a medium bowl, flake the drained tuna with a fork. Add the chopped apple, celery, and red onion (if using).
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if using), Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
- Combine and mix: Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and gently toss until evenly coated. Adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Serve: Serve immediately or chill for 20–30 minutes for the flavors to meld. Garnish with parsley or dill if desired.
- Enjoy: Serve as a sandwich filling, on crackers, over a bed of greens, or stuffed into hollowed-out apples for a fun presentation.
Notes
- For added crunch, mix in 1/4 cup of chopped walnuts or sliced almonds.
- Swap mayonnaise for mashed avocado for a healthier twist.
- Use canned chicken or shredded rotisserie chicken as a tuna substitute.