Description
This Fresh and Simple Apple Tuna Salad combines the light, flaky texture of canned tuna with the crisp sweetness of apple and crunchy celery. Mixed with a tangy mayonnaise and Dijon mustard dressing and brightened with fresh lemon juice and parsley, it’s a refreshing, easy-to-make dish perfect for a quick lunch, snack, or light dinner.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 can Tuna (canned, drained) (Preferably packed in water for a lighter option.)
- 1 medium Apple (diced) (Choose a crisp variety like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp.)
- 2 stalks Celery (chopped) (Adds crunch and subtle earthiness.)
Dressing
- 3 tablespoons Mayonnaise (Can use light mayonnaise for fewer calories.)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (Enhances flavor with a hint of tanginess.)
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice (Freshly squeezed to add acidity and prevent browning.)
- to taste Salt and pepper (For seasoning.)
Garnish
- 1 tablespoon Parsley (chopped) (Optional, for added color and freshness.)
Instructions
- Prepare the tuna: Open the canned tuna and drain it thoroughly to remove excess liquid to ensure the salad doesn’t become watery.
- Dice the apple: Rinse the apple under cold water to clean it, then core and dice it into small, bite-sized pieces for a crisp texture balance.
- Chop the celery: Cut the celery into small, uniform pieces to add a subtle earthiness and crunch to the salad.
- Combine main ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained tuna, diced apple, and chopped celery. Use a fork to gently break up the tuna slightly and mix everything together evenly.
- Make the dressing: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
- Mix dressing with salad: Pour the prepared dressing over the tuna mixture and fold gently with a spatula to coat all ingredients evenly without mashing them.
- Adjust seasoning: Taste the salad and add more salt or pepper if needed to suit your preference.
- Add parsley: If using, finely chop the parsley and sprinkle it over the top for added freshness and color.
- Chill the salad: Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or a lid and refrigerate for about 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully.
- Final stir: After chilling, give the salad a gentle stir to redistribute the dressing and ingredients before serving.
- Serve: Present the salad on a bed of lettuce, inside a sandwich, or alongside crackers for a light, delicious meal.
Notes
- This salad is best consumed within 24 hours for optimal freshness.
- Use light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt as a healthier alternative to regular mayonnaise.
- Choose tart apple varieties like Granny Smith to balance the creaminess and sweetness.
- Adding chopped nuts like walnuts can enhance texture and nutrition.
- Keep the salad refrigerated until serving to prevent spoiling and maintain crispness.
