Tuna salad is a beloved dish that has been enjoyed by many for generations. It’s a versatile recipe, perfect for a quick lunch, a satisfying snack, or even as a light dinner. But what makes tuna salad so good? The answer lies in its simplicity and the ability to customize it to suit individual tastes. Stacy’s Crunchy Tuna Salad takes this classic recipe to the next level by adding a delightful crunch, making it more exciting and satisfying. Whether you’re a fan of traditional tuna salad or looking for a new way to enjoy it, this recipe will surely become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients
To make Stacy’s Crunchy Tuna Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 2 cans of tuna (in water or oil, drained)
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup dill pickles, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup roasted sunflower seeds
- 1/4 cup chopped walnuts
- 1/4 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
Start by draining the tuna and placing it in a large mixing bowl. Use a fork to flake the tuna into smaller pieces, ensuring that it’s evenly distributed.
Step 2: Mix the Base
Add the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice to the tuna. Stir until the mixture is creamy and well combined. The combination of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt provides a balanced creaminess with a slight tang that enhances the flavor.
Step 3: Add the Crunch
Incorporate the finely chopped celery, red onion, dill pickles, shredded carrots, and green bell pepper into the tuna mixture. These vegetables add a delightful crunch and freshness to the salad, making each bite more enjoyable.
Step 4: Enhance with Nuts and Seeds
Add the roasted sunflower seeds and chopped walnuts to the mix. These ingredients not only provide extra crunch but also add a rich, nutty flavor that complements the tuna perfectly.
Step 5: Season and Garnish
Season the salad with salt and pepper to taste. Finally, fold in the chopped parsley for a touch of freshness and a pop of color.
Step 6: Serve
Stacy’s Crunchy Tuna Salad can be served in various ways. Spoon it onto a bed of lettuce for a low-carb option, spread it on whole-grain bread for a hearty sandwich, or stuff it into a pita with some tzatziki for a delicious tuna gyro.
Tips and Variations
Tips for the Perfect Tuna Salad
- Choosing Tuna: Opt for high-quality canned tuna, preferably packed in water if you’re looking for a lighter option. Tuna packed in oil can add extra richness to the salad.
- Balancing Flavors: Adjust the amount of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt according to your preference. If you like a creamier salad, add a bit more mayo. For a tangier taste, increase the Greek yogurt.
- Adding Extra Crunch: If you prefer an even crunchier texture, consider adding chopped radishes or jicama to the salad.
Variations to Try
- Tuna Sandwich with Tzatziki: Spread a layer of tzatziki on your bread before adding the tuna salad. This adds a refreshing, creamy layer that pairs beautifully with the crunchy tuna.
- Nyt Tuna Salad: For a New York Times-inspired twist, add some capers and olives to the salad for a briny kick.
- Tuna Gyro: Serve the tuna salad in a warm pita with sliced cucumbers, tomatoes, and tzatziki for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a basic breakdown of the nutritional information for Stacy’s Crunchy Tuna Salad per serving (assuming the recipe serves four):
- Calories: 250
- Protein: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fat: 15g
- Fiber: 2g
- Sugar: 3g
This salad is a great source of protein, healthy fats, and fiber, making it a nutritious option for any meal.
Stacy’s Crunchy Tuna Salad is more than just a simple tuna salad; it’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that will make your taste buds sing. Whether you enjoy it as a sandwich, a salad topping, or in a pita, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. The crunch from the vegetables, nuts, and seeds adds a satisfying bite, while the creamy dressing ties everything together.