Creamy Tuna Salad with Red Bell Pepper and Fresh Herbs Recipe
Introduction
This Tuna Salad is a simple, protein-packed dish perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. Combining tender tuna with fresh vegetables and a creamy dressing, it’s both flavorful and satisfying.
Ingredients
- 2 cans tuna in oil, drained very well
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, plus more to taste
- 1-2 tbsp finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper (or any other color)
- 1-2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Drain your tuna very well, then place it into a large bowl and flake it using a fork until nicely broken up.
- Step 2: Add the chopped red bell pepper, finely chopped onion, parsley or dill, lemon juice, black pepper, and mayonnaise to the bowl.
- Step 3: Stir all the ingredients together until the mixture is creamy and evenly combined.
- Step 4: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning as needed—add more lemon juice, black pepper, or fresh herbs if you like.
- Step 5: Serve immediately or chill in the refrigerator for 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld for a tastier experience.
Tips & Variations
- For a lighter version, substitute half the mayonnaise with Greek yogurt.
- Add diced celery or pickles for extra crunch and flavor.
- Use fresh lemon juice instead of bottled for a brighter taste.
- Try different herbs like cilantro or chives to change the flavor profile.
Storage
Store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Stir before serving. It’s best enjoyed chilled but avoid leaving it out at room temperature for more than two hours.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use tuna packed in water instead of oil?
Yes, tuna packed in water works well and will reduce the overall fat content, but you may want to add a little extra mayonnaise or olive oil for creaminess.
Is this salad suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely. Tuna salad keeps well in the fridge and makes for a quick, protein-rich meal you can prepare ahead of time.
PrintCreamy Tuna Salad with Red Bell Pepper and Fresh Herbs Recipe
This Tuna Salad recipe is a quick and easy protein-packed dish perfect for lunch or a light dinner. Combining canned tuna with fresh vegetables, herbs, and a creamy mayonnaise base, it offers a flavorful, refreshing meal that can be served immediately or chilled for enhanced taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10-30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Low Salt
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cans tuna in oil, drained very well
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 tsp black pepper, add more to taste
- 1–2 tbsp finely chopped onion
- 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper (or any other color)
- 1–2 tsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp chopped parsley or dill
- Pinch of salt
Instructions
- Flake the tuna: Drain your tuna thoroughly and transfer it to a large bowl. Use a fork to break up the tuna fully so it has a fine, flaky texture.
- Add the good stuff: Add the chopped red bell pepper, finely chopped onion, chopped parsley or dill, lemon juice, black pepper, and mayonnaise to the bowl with the tuna.
- Mix it up: Stir all the ingredients together until they are evenly combined and the mixture becomes creamy.
- Taste + tweak: Sample the salad and adjust the seasonings as needed—add more lemon juice for brightness, extra pepper for spice, or additional herbs for freshness.
- Serve or chill: The salad can be served immediately, but allowing it to chill for 15–20 minutes enhances the flavors and blends all the ingredients nicely.
Notes
- Draining the tuna thoroughly ensures the salad doesn’t become watery.
- You can substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt for a lighter version.
- Try adding other herbs like cilantro or basil for a different flavor profile.
- This salad pairs well with crackers, bread, or as a filling for sandwiches and wraps.
- Chilling the salad improves flavor fusion but is optional.
Keywords: Tuna salad, protein salad, easy tuna recipe, healthy lunch, no cook tuna salad
