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Twist on Classic Tuna Salad

This tuna salad combines flaky canned tuna with crunchy celery, sharp red onion, and bright lemon, all coated in a smoky paprika mayonnaise dressing. The final dish has a creamy yet crisp texture, with vibrant flavors and an appealing, chunky appearance perfect for a quick lunch or picnic.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 210
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 can (5 oz) solid-packed tuna in olive oil drain thoroughly
  • 1/4 cup celery finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika toast briefly in a dry pan for extra smoky flavor if desired
  • 1 pickles dill pickle chopped
  • chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish

Equipment

  • medium mixing bowl
  • Fork
  • Knife
  • small whisk
  • Serving plate

Method
 

  1. Drain the tuna thoroughly and place it into a medium mixing bowl. Use a fork to flake it into bite-sized, flaky pieces, feeling the texture break apart gently.
  2. Add the finely chopped celery and red onion to the bowl with the tuna. These vegetables will add crunch and sharpness to the salad, so mix them in evenly.
  3. In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, lemon juice, smoked paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This flavorful dressing will coat the ingredients with smoky, zesty creaminess.
  4. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and gently fold everything together with a fork. Ensure the ingredients are coated evenly but avoid overmixing to keep the texture light and flaky.
  5. Add chopped dill pickle to the salad for bright vinegar crunch, then fold again just to incorporate.
  6. Garnish the salad with chopped fresh parsley or dill for a burst of herbal freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed, adding more lemon or paprika to enhance the flavors.
  7. Serve the tuna salad immediately on a plate or chilled in the fridge for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to meld. Enjoy it on its own or with crusty bread for a satisfying meal.

Notes

For extra smoky flavor, toast the paprika briefly before mixing. To keep the salad light, substitute mayonnaise with Greek yogurt. Adjust the lemon and pickle amount to taste for more brightness or tang.