This Protein Pickle Tuna Salad is a tasty and fun twist on the classic. It features tuna, crunchy pickles, and a creamy dressing that pulls everything together in a delightful mix!
You can enjoy it on a sandwich, in a wrap, or even on its own! I like to pile it high on crackers for a quick snack that packs a protein punch. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: I recommend using canned tuna packed in water for a leaner option. You could also try chunk light tuna or albacore for a different texture. If you’re aiming for a vegetarian option, consider using chickpeas, mashed for a similar experience.
Dill Pickles: Diced dill pickles add a lovely crunch and tang. If you can’t find dill pickles, sweet pickles work as an alternative, or even chopped cucumbers if you prefer a lighter taste. Just adjust the seasoning to balance the flavor!
Mayonnaise: I often switch between mayonnaise and Greek yogurt based on my mood. Greek yogurt makes the salad creamier and adds extra protein. If you’d like a vegan option, use a plant-based mayo or avocado instead!
Dijon Mustard: This ingredient adds a nice zing to the salad. If you don’t have Dijon, yellow mustard can be used, although the flavor will be milder. Remember to adjust the amount to taste.
How Do I Make Sure My Tuna Salad is Creamy?
To achieve that perfect creamy consistency in your tuna salad, here are some handy tips:
- Start with a good balance of mayonnaise and Greek yogurt. This mixture adds creaminess while keeping it lighter.
- Thoroughly mix the dressing ingredients before adding them to the tuna. This ensures an even spread of flavor throughout the salad.
- Add the dressing gradually. Start with a little, then add more if you like it creamier, allowing you to control the texture.
- Chilling the salad for at least 20 minutes helps the flavors meld and makes it creamier. The longer it sits, the better it gets!
How to Make Protein Pickle Tuna Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna packed in water, drained
- 1 cup diced dill pickles (or cucumber pickles), sliced into rounds
- 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion or white onion
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for lighter option)
- 2 tablespoons plain Greek yogurt (optional for extra creaminess and protein)
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1-2 tablespoons chopped fresh dill
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional, for garnish)
- Additional pickle slices for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
You’ll need about 10 minutes for preparation, plus 20 minutes to chill in the fridge. That’s only 30 minutes in total until you can enjoy this delicious, protein-packed salad!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tuna:
Start by opening the cans of tuna. Drain the water and place the tuna in a medium mixing bowl. Use a fork to flake the tuna until it’s chunky but well broken up—this will give your salad a nice texture.
2. Mix in the Crunchy Veggies:
Add the diced dill pickles and finely chopped onion to the bowl with the tuna. Mix gently to combine all the ingredients together. This step adds crunch and flavor to your salad!
3. Create the Dressing:
In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, Greek yogurt (if you’re using it), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk until the mixture is creamy and smooth, just like you want every scoop of salad to be!
4. Combine Everything:
Pour the creamy dressing over the tuna mixture and gently fold everything together. Make sure the tuna and pickles are evenly coated with the dressing for optimal flavor.
5. Season the Salad:
Add the chopped fresh dill, salt, and black pepper to taste. Mix well to incorporate the seasonings into your salad—this is where you can customize it to your liking!
6. Final Touches:
Transfer the tuna salad to a serving bowl. Feel free to garnish with extra pickle slices and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick if you like some heat!
7. Chill and Serve:
Cover the salad and place it in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes. This chilling period helps the flavors meld wonderfully together. When you’re ready to serve, you can enjoy your Protein Pickle Tuna Salad chilled, either as a sandwich filling, on crackers, or over a fresh bed of greens.
Enjoy your delicious, protein-rich snack!
Can I Use Canned Chicken Instead of Tuna?
Yes, you can definitely use canned chicken! Just drain it well and follow the same steps in the recipe. The flavor will be different, but it will still make a tasty salad!
How Can I Make This Tuna Salad Lower in Calories?
To make it lighter, replace mayonnaise with Greek yogurt, or use a lower-fat mayonnaise. You could also reduce the amount of dressing added and increase the amount of veggies for more volume without many calories.
Can I Add Other Ingredients to This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to add chopped celery for extra crunch, bell peppers for sweetness, or even hard-boiled eggs for added protein and richness. Just keep the balance of flavors in mind!
How Long Will This Tuna Salad Last in the Fridge?
Your Protein Pickle Tuna Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving, as some separation may occur over time!
