Spicy Zesty Tuna Salad (Print Version)

Vibrant protein-packed tuna with spicy mayo, lemon juice, and crisp scallions. Versatile for sandwiches, wraps, or standalone meals.

# What You'll Need:

→ Seafood

01 - 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

02 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
03 - 1 celery stalk, finely diced (optional)

→ Dressing

04 - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
05 - 2 teaspoons Sriracha or hot sauce, adjusted to taste
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
07 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
08 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

10 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
11 - Lemon wedges (optional)

# How To Make It:

01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth and well combined.
02 - Add drained tuna, scallions, and celery if using to the bowl. Gently mix until the tuna is evenly coated with the dressing.
03 - Taste the salad and adjust seasoning as needed, adding more lemon juice or hot sauce if desired.
04 - Serve immediately garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, or chill for 30 minutes to enhance flavor development.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • It comes together in less time than it takes to decide what to eat, with ingredients you probably already have tucked away in your pantry.
  • The spicy mayo and lemon juice give it a lively, restaurant-style flavor that makes canned tuna taste completely elevated.
  • You can eat it straight from the bowl, pile it on toast, or wrap it in lettuce without any extra fuss.
02 -
  • Drain the tuna really well, pressing it gently with a fork or your hands, because extra water will make your dressing thin and the salad watery.
  • Start with less Sriracha than you think you need, because the heat builds as it sits and you can always add more but you can't take it back.
03 -
  • Use chunk light tuna instead of albacore if you want a milder flavor and a slightly softer texture that blends more easily with the dressing.
  • Toast your bread or crackers lightly before serving to add a contrasting crunch that makes every bite more satisfying.
  • Add a small handful of diced cucumber or bell pepper for extra crunch and a pop of color that makes the salad feel more vibrant.
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