Mediterranean Tuna Salad
There’s something invigorating about a good Mediterranean tuna salad. It’s this vibrant dish that manages to channel sunshine, sea breeze, and a casual coastal vibe, all in one bowl. Just imagine sitting by the harbor with a plateful of this salad in front of you while you sip a cool drink.
Equipment
- Bowls
Ingredients
For the Zesty Dijon Mustard Dressing:
- 1/3 cup extra-virgin olive oil: Select a high-quality brand that you love as it’s the base of the dressing.
- 2 1/2 teaspoons high-quality Dijon mustard: This gives depth.
- Juice of 1 1/2 limes: Fresh is best; it adds brightness.
- Zest of 1 lime or 1 small lemon for a twist: Don’t skip this! It intensifies the flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon sumac: This delivers a tangy lemony flavor.
- Pinch of kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper: Just a dash will do.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes optional: For a bit of heat.
- 1 teaspoon honey optional: To balance the acidity.
For the Tuna Salad:
- 3 cans tuna 5 ounces each (opt for albacore or yellowfin for richer flavor): Choose sustainably sourced options when you can.
- 1/2 cup pitted Kalamata olives halved: These bring brininess.
- 1/2 medium red onion minced: The perfect sharpness.
- 2 1/2 celery stalks finely diced: For that satisfying crunch.
- 3 green onions both white and green parts, sliced: Adds freshness and color.
- 1/2 English cucumber diced: Crisp and refreshing.
- 10-15 fresh mint leaves finely chopped: A surprising twist.
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves roughly chopped: Bright and vibrant.
- 4-5 radishes thinly sliced or chopped: Adds a peppery kick.
- 1 teaspoon capers optional: These enhance the briny flavor.
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
- First, let's whip up that dressing. In a medium bowl, combine the extra-virgin olive oil, Dijon mustard, lime juice, lime zest, sumac, salt, pepper, and any other optional ingredients like honey or red pepper flakes. Whisk until everything is combined and creamy. Set this aside; the flavors will develop beautifully while you prep the salad.
Step 2: Drain the Tuna
- Grab those tuna cans and open them up. Drain the liquid thoroughly. You can use a fork to break the tuna into bite-sized pieces. This will make it easier to incorporate later.
Step 3: Chop the Veggies
- Now it’s time to chop! Dice your cucumber, slice the radishes, mince the red onion, and chop the mint and parsley. The colors will start to pop as you work. Don’t worry if it gets a little messy; that’s part of the fun!
Step 4: Mix It All Together
- In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, olives, red onion, celery, green onions, cucumber, mint, parsley, radishes, and capers if you’re using them. This bowl should be a vivid display of colors and textures.
Step 5: Dress the Salad
- Pour the zesty dressing over the tuna and vegetables. Toss gently so that every piece gets coated, but be careful not to mash the tuna.
Step 6: Chill and Serve
- Cover the bowl with a lid or plastic wrap and let it chill in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes. This waiting period allows the flavors to mingle and intensify, making each bite more delicious than the last.
Notes
Here are a few insider tips to enhance your Mediterranean tuna salad experience:
- Stay Fresh: Use fresh ingredients as much as possible for the best flavor. If you can, opt for ripe vegetables.
- Chill Before Serving: Allowing the salad to chill helps flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Play With Textures: Add some toasted nuts or seeds for an extra crunch. Pine nuts or sunflower seeds work great.
- Customize: Feel free to switch out the veggies based on what you have on hand. Bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, or even artichokes can be fun additions.
- Go Beyond Tuna: Try it with canned salmon or sardines for a different taste experience.
Nutrition
Calories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 15gProtein: 30gFat: 20gFiber: 4g
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!