Simply Classic Tuna Salad

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Classic Tuna Salad Lightened Up

Yield: 5

Author: Lauren Cohen, MS, RDN

Prep time: 10 MinTotal time: 10 Min

Greek yogurt is often used to replace mayonnaise, but too much can leave a noticeable tang. In this recipe, a higher proportion of light mayonnaise preserves the classic flavor and texture, while a smaller amount of fat-free Greek yogurt adds protein and creaminess. Combined with Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and dill, the result is a tuna salad that feels lighter without tasting different than the classic.

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Ingredients

• 4 (7 oz) cans tuna, water-packed, drained very well
• ½ cup light mayonnaise, like Hellman's
• ⅓ cup fat-free Greek yogurt, like Fage
• 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• ⅛ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ cup celery, finely diced (about 2 stalks)
• ½ cup carrots, peeled and finely diced (about 2 carrots)

Instructions

Prepare the Dressing

1. In a medium bowl, whisk together the light mayonnaise, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper until smooth.
2. Taste the dressing and adjust seasoning if needed. The flavor should be creamy and balanced.

Prepare the Tuna

1. Place the drained tuna in a separate bowl and gently break it apart with a fork.

Combine

1. Add the dressing to the tuna and fold gently until evenly coated.

Finish with Vegetables

1. Fold in the diced celery and carrots until just combined.
2. Taste once more and adjust seasoning if needed before serving.

Notes

Kitchen Tips

• Drain the tuna well. Excess moisture softens both flavor and texture.
• Fold gently. Folding instead of stirring helps keep the tuna intact and maintains a clean texture.
• Cut vegetables small. Finely diced celery and carrots add freshness and crunch without overpowering the salad.
• I sometimes add scallions or finely minced red onion, but usually right before eating. While I enjoy the flavor, I find it can permeate the entire batch as it sits, altering the salad's overall character. Adding it at the last minute gives you the best of both worlds: a little bite when you want it, while keeping the rest of the tuna salad clean and classic.

Optional Add-Ins

• Fresh, dried, or Garden Gourmet dill, finely chopped
• Finely chopped dill pickles for a briny note
• A splash of pickle juice to brighten the dressing
• Chopped chives or scallions for mild onion flavor
• Finely diced shallot for a slightly deeper bite

Recommended Products

KitchenAid Citrus Juice Press Squeezer for Lemons and Limes with Seed Catcher and Pour Spout,

Mueller Pro-Series All-in-One, 12 Blade Mandoline Slicer for Kitchen, Food Chopper, Vegetable Slicer and Spiralizer, Cutter, Dicer, Grater, Kitchen Gadgets Sets with Container

Mini Food Processor

OXO Good Grips Swivel Vegetable Peeler

Nutrition Facts

Calories

193

Fat

6 g

Sat. Fat

1 g

Protein

28 g

Carbs

5 g

Fiber

1 g

Cholesterol

53 mg

Net carbs

4 g

Sodium

770 mg

Sugar

2 g

Nutrition Disclaimer

Nutrition information is automatically calculated and should be considered an estimate. Individual ingredients and brands may vary.

Affiliate Disclosure

Some links on this page may be affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.

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