Tuna Salad with Celery, Onion, and Mayo Dressing

Tuna Salad with Celery, Onion, and Mayo Dressing is a timeless, dependable classic that has been a staple in home kitchens for generations. Simple, satisfying, and incredibly versatile, this dish combines flaky tuna with crisp celery, sharp onion, and a creamy mayonnaise dressing that ties everything together beautifully. Every bite offers a perfect balance of creaminess, crunch, and savory flavor.

This recipe is loved for its ease and practicality. With just a few pantry staples, you can create a meal that works equally well for lunch, a light dinner, or meal prep for the week. Whether served in a sandwich, over a bed of greens, or alongside crackers, tuna salad is one of those recipes that never goes out of style.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this tuna salad recipe because it’s quick, reliable, and endlessly adaptable. It comes together in minutes, requires no cooking, and always delivers satisfying flavor. The crisp celery and onion add texture and freshness, while the creamy mayo dressing makes it rich and comforting without being heavy.

It’s also one of those recipes that tastes even better after sitting for a bit, making it perfect for make-ahead meals.

Why This Is a Must-Try Dish

• Ready in under 15 minutes
• Requires no cooking
• High in protein and filling
• Perfect for meal prep
• Works in sandwiches, wraps, or salads

If you need a fast, nutritious, and comforting meal, this tuna salad is a must-try.

Recipe Overview

• Course: Salad / Main Course / Lunch
• Cuisine: American / Classic
• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: None
• Total Time: 10 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings
• Calories: Approx. 260 calories per serving

Ingredients

For the Tuna Salad

• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water or oil, drained well
• ½ cup mayonnaise
• 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
• ¼ cup onion, finely chopped (red or white)
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice or pickle juice (optional)
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper

Optional Add-Ins

• 1 tablespoon Dijon or yellow mustard
• 1 tablespoon chopped parsley or dill
• 1 tablespoon relish or chopped pickles

Cooking Directions

1. Drain tuna thoroughly and flake into a bowl
2. Add chopped celery and onion
3. Stir in mayonnaise and seasonings
4. Mix gently until well combined
5. Chill briefly and serve

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Prepare the Tuna

• Open tuna cans and drain completely to avoid watery salad.
• Flake the tuna gently with a fork into a mixing bowl.

Step 2: Add Vegetables

• Add finely chopped celery and onion to the tuna.

Step 3: Make the Dressing

• Add mayonnaise, lemon juice (if using), salt, and black pepper.

Step 4: Mix

• Gently stir until all ingredients are evenly combined.
• Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

Step 5: Chill

• Refrigerate for 15–30 minutes for best flavor (optional).

How to Serve

• In a sandwich or wrap with lettuce and tomato
• On toasted bread or croissants
• Over mixed greens or spinach
• With crackers or cucumber slices
• Stuffed into tomatoes or avocados

Recipe Tips

• Drain tuna very well to avoid soggy salad
• Chop vegetables finely for better texture
• Use full-fat mayo for best flavor
• Chill before serving to enhance taste
• Adjust mayo quantity based on preference

Variations

Healthy Tuna Salad

Use Greek yogurt or half yogurt and half mayo for a lighter version.

Mediterranean Style

Add olives, capers, lemon zest, and olive oil.

Spicy Tuna Salad

Mix in hot sauce, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños.

Crunchy Tuna Salad

Add chopped apples, nuts, or water chestnuts.

Egg Tuna Salad

Mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra richness.

Freezing and Storage

Refrigerator

• Store in an airtight container
• Keeps fresh for 3–4 days

Freezer

• Not recommended; mayonnaise separates when frozen.

Special Equipment Needed

• Mixing bowl
• Fork
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring spoons

Conclusion

Tuna Salad with Celery, Onion, and Mayo Dressing is a simple, satisfying, and timeless recipe that belongs in every kitchen. With its creamy texture, crisp vegetables, and savory tuna, it’s a dish that works for quick lunches, meal prep, or light dinners.

Easy to make, endlessly customizable, and always comforting, this tuna salad is proof that classic recipes never go out of style. Once you try it, it will quickly become a go-to favorite.