Print
clock clock iconcutlery cutlery iconflag flag iconfolder folder iconinstagram instagram iconpinterest pinterest iconfacebook facebook iconprint print iconsquares squares iconheart heart iconheart solid heart solid icon
Creamy tuna salad served with assorted crackers on a wooden board

Single Serving Tuna Salad


5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

  • Author: Jenn Giam Smith
  • Total Time: 5 minutes
  • Yield: 1-2 Servings 1x
  • Diet: Pescatarian

Description

This single-serving tuna salad skips draining the oil for a rich, creamy, flavor-packed lunch made with pantry staples and less mayo. Quick, easy, and perfect for smaller households or simple lunches.


Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 (4-ounce) cans tuna in oil (do not drain)
  • 1/8 cup mayo
  • 1/2 teaspoon lemon juice
  • 1 teaspoon capers
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/8 teaspoon celery salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1 teaspoon Chinese mustard
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili crisp

Instructions

  1. Add the tuna, including the oil, to a medium bowl.
  2. Gently break apart the tuna with a fork.
  3. Add the mayo, lemon juice, capers, garlic powder, onion powder, celery salt, dried dill, Chinese mustard, and chili crisp.
  4. Mix until creamy and fully combined.
  5. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  6. Serve immediately with crackers, on sandwiches, or over greens.

Notes

Jenn’s Kitchen Tip

Keeping the oil from the tuna helps create a rich, creamy texture without needing a large amount of mayo. It also helps carry the seasoning throughout the tuna salad for more balanced flavor in every bite.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1–2 days.

Tuna Packed in Water

If using tuna packed in water, drain it well before mixing or the salad may become watery. You may also want to add a little extra mayo or a drizzle of olive oil to replace some of the richness from the oil-packed tuna.

  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 0 minutes
  • Category: Lunch
  • Method: No Oven, No-cook
  • Cuisine: American