Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This tuna salad stands out thanks to its crunchy, zesty blend of fresh ingredients like red pepper, celery, and pickles. It’s super quick to make in a food processor and can be used in multiple ways—from tuna melts to healthy lettuce wraps. It’s both simple and satisfying.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- 1 celery rib, roughly chopped
- ¼ red pepper, roughly chopped
- ¼ red onion, roughly chopped
- ¼ cup dill or bread and butter pickles, chopped
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained
- 2 cans tuna, drained
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon chopped parsley
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- Sprinkle each of kosher salt and pepper
Directions
- Chop Veggies: Add celery, onion, pepper, pickles, and capers to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped.
- Blend Tuna: Add tuna, mayonnaise, parsley, lemon juice, and season with salt and pepper. Pulse until the mixture comes together to your preferred texture.
- Serve or Store: Transfer to an airtight container. Stir before using. Serve as a dip, sandwich filling, or on top of a salad.
Servings and Timing
- Servings: 4
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Variations
- Greek Yogurt Substitute: Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version.
- Spicy Kick: Add a dash of hot sauce or minced jalapeño for heat.
- Egg Addition: Add chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein.
Storage
- To Store: Keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Conclusion
Classic Tuna Salad is a simple, quick, and delicious option for any meal. With its blend of fresh vegetables, savory tuna, and creamy dressing, it’s a go-to recipe for sandwiches, wraps, and more. Perfect for busy weekdays or laid-back weekends!

Classic Tuna Salad
- Author: Amy
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Salad, Lunch, Meal Prep
- Method: Food Processor, Mixing
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Classic Tuna Salad is quick, flavorful, and packed with fresh, crunchy veggies and creamy dressing. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or served on its own, and makes an easy, protein-rich option for lunch or meal prep.
Ingredients
1 celery rib, roughly chopped
¼ red pepper, roughly chopped
¼ red onion, roughly chopped
¼ cup dill or bread and butter pickles, chopped
1 tbsp capers, drained
2 cans tuna, drained
½ cup mayonnaise
1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp lemon juice
Kosher salt, to taste
Black pepper, to taste
Instructions
-
Chop Veggies:
Add celery, red pepper, onion, pickles, and capers to a food processor. Pulse until finely chopped. -
Blend Tuna:
Add drained tuna, mayonnaise, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Pulse just until the salad comes together to your desired consistency. -
Serve or Store:
Transfer to an airtight container. Chill or serve immediately as a dip, sandwich filling, or salad topping.
Notes
Adjust consistency by pulsing more or less.
Stir before serving if made ahead.
Great for meal prep!