Looking for a quick, easy, and nutritious meal that doesn’t skimp on flavor? My homemade tuna salad recipe is the perfect answer.

Whether you’re whipping up a light lunch, prepping for a picnic, or need a satisfying snack, this creamy and crunchy tuna salad has got you covered.

Made with real mayonnaise, sweet pickle relish, and a mix of fresh herbs and vegetables, this classic tuna salad is anything but boring.

You can enjoy it on your favorite sandwich bread, in a lettuce wrap, or even scooped up with crackers. And the best part? It only takes about 10 minutes to prepare.

Let’s dive into the details of this flavor-packed tuna salad recipe that’ll keep you coming back for more.

Ingredients List

Here’s everything you’ll need to make this creamy and flavorful tuna salad:

12 oz canned tuna, drained
⅓ cup real mayonnaise (see substitutions below)
¼ cup sweet pickle relish

2 tablespoons red onion, minced
1 stalk celery, minced
1 tablespoon lemon juice

1 tablespoon flat-leaf parsley, chopped
1 teaspoon dried chives (optional, but recommended)
½ teaspoon garlic powder

¼ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Required Kitchen Tools

You don’t need much to whip up this easy tuna salad, but having the right tools on hand makes prep even easier.

Medium Mixing Bowl – A large enough bowl to mix everything without spillage.
Can Opener – For opening your tuna cans quickly and safely.
Rubber Spatula – Helps you mix and fold the ingredients gently but thoroughly.

Measuring Cups & Spoons – To keep ingredient quantities just right.
Cutting Board & Knife – For chopping your onions, celery, and parsley evenly.

Having these simple tools prepped and ready will ensure your tuna salad comes together in just a few minutes—no mess, no stress.

Tuna Salad Preparation & Mixing Techniques

Making the perfect tuna salad is all about balance and texture. You want just the right amount of creaminess, crunch, and seasoning in every bite. Follow these easy steps to get it just right every time.

Step 1: Drain and Flake the Tuna

Start by opening your cans of tuna and draining them thoroughly. Press the lid against the tuna to remove as much liquid as possible—this helps prevent the salad from becoming watery. Once drained, transfer the tuna to a medium mixing bowl and use a fork to gently flake it apart.

Step 2: Add the Creamy Base and Mix-Ins

To the bowl of flaked tuna, add:

⅓ cup real mayonnaise
¼ cup sweet pickle relish
2 tablespoons red onion, minced

1 stalk of celery, finely chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice

Stir everything together with a rubber spatula until the tuna is well coated and the ingredients are evenly distributed. This creates a creamy, tangy base that gives the tuna salad its signature taste.

Step 3: Season and Brighten the Flavor

Now it’s time to build the flavor with herbs and spices. Add:

1 tablespoon chopped flat-leaf parsley
1 teaspoon dried chives (optional, but adds depth)

½ teaspoon garlic powder
¼ teaspoon kosher salt
½ teaspoon ground black pepper

Give it all one final stir, making sure the seasoning is fully mixed in. Taste and adjust if needed—sometimes I add an extra squeeze of lemon or a pinch more salt, depending on what I’m serving it with.

Serving Suggestions & Flavor Variations

One of the best things about this tuna salad recipe is its versatility. Whether you want a classic sandwich, a fresh salad topper, or a snack, it’s got your back. Here are some of my favorite ways to serve and customize this delicious tuna salad.

How I Like to Serve Tuna Salad

Classic Tuna Sandwich: Spread a generous layer on your favorite bread — I love whole wheat or sourdough. Add crisp lettuce and ripe tomato slices for extra crunch and freshness.

Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb option, spoon tuna salad into crisp romaine or butter lettuce leaves. Perfect for a light, refreshing meal.
Crackers or Veggies: Serve as a dip with your favorite crackers, cucumber slices, or carrot sticks. Great for parties or snack time.
On a Bed of Greens: Top mixed greens with a scoop of tuna salad for a protein-packed lunch.

Flavor Variations to Try

If you want to switch things up or tailor the tuna salad to your taste buds, here are a few ideas:

Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or ½ teaspoon smoked paprika.
Mediterranean Twist: Mix in chopped olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.

Avocado Creaminess: Replace half the mayo with mashed avocado for a buttery texture and healthy fats.
Herb Explosion: Use fresh dill, basil, or cilantro in place of parsley and chives for a different herbal note.

Pro Tips for Perfect Tuna Salad Every Time

Use good-quality tuna for the best flavor and texture.

Chop your celery and onion finely so you get a bit of crunch without overwhelming the salad.
Adjust lemon juice and seasoning after mixing for the perfect balance.

Storage Instructions & Final Tips for Tuna Salad

Making tuna salad ahead of time? No problem! Here’s how to keep your tuna salad fresh and tasty.

How to Store Tuna Salad

Store your tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days—perfect for quick lunches or snacks throughout the week.

Can You Freeze Tuna Salad?

Freezing tuna salad isn’t recommended because the mayonnaise base and fresh veggies tend to separate and get watery once thawed. For the best texture and flavor, enjoy it fresh or refrigerated.

Reheating and Serving After Storage

If you find the salad a bit stiff after refrigeration, simply give it a good stir to restore the creamy texture. You can add a splash of lemon juice or a teaspoon of mayo if needed to brighten the flavors before serving.