Classic Tuna Salad Sandwich: A 15-Minute No-Cook Wonder
The perfect balance of creamy, tangy, and satisfying – this classic tuna salad sandwich recipe never disappoints.
KEY INFO
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes (including assembly)
- Servings: 4-6 sandwiches
- Difficulty: Easy
- Diet: Can be gluten-free (with alternative bread)
- Cost: $8-12 total
EQUIPMENT NEEDED
- Medium mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Can opener
- Fork for mixing
- Measuring spoons
Quick Tip: A food processor can replace knife work if you’re short on time.
INGREDIENTS
For the Base:
- 2 (6 oz) cans chunk light tuna in water, drained (280g)
- ½ cup mayonnaise (120ml)
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced (about ½ cup)
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
Optional Add-ins:
- 2 tablespoons dill pickles, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 hard-boiled egg, chopped
- Fresh dill or parsley
METHOD
- Drain the tuna thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer, pressing gently to remove excess moisture.
- Transfer tuna to a mixing bowl and flake with a fork until desired consistency.
- Add mayonnaise, diced celery, and chopped onion.
- Mix in lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Fold in any optional add-ins.
- Taste and adjust seasoning – this is crucial!
- Chill for 15 minutes if time permits (enhances flavors).
CRUCIAL TIPS
- Don’t overmix! You want chunks of tuna, not paste.
- Drain tuna extremely well to prevent soggy sandwiches.
- Season generously – cold foods need more seasoning.
- Let sit 15 minutes before serving if possible.
STORAGE & VARIATIONS
Storage:
- Keeps 3-4 days refrigerated in an airtight container.
- Do not freeze.
Scaling:
- Recipe doubles easily.
- Use 1/4 cup mayo per can of tuna as a base ratio.
Common Mistakes:
- Using too much mayonnaise.
- Not draining tuna properly.
- Under-seasoning.
Variations:
- Greek-style: Add olives, cucumber, feta.
- Asian-fusion: Mix in sesame oil, ginger, soy sauce.
- Mediterranean: Add capers, sundried tomatoes, herbs.
- Low-carb: Serve on lettuce wraps instead of bread.
The beauty of this classic lies in its simplicity – master the basic recipe, then make it your own!
