Tuna salad gets a fresh, unexpected upgrade in this version, where crisp apples add a juicy crunch, and a touch of Dijon ties it all together. Inspired by the balance of sweet and savory in European bistro fare, this dish plays with texture and contrast—silky tuna, crisp fruit, and a creamy yet light dressing.
Whether you’re layering it onto a croissant, serving it over greens, or stuffing it into a pita, this salad is an effortless blend of comfort and sophistication. It pairs beautifully with a steaming bowl of Vegan Chicken Noodle Soup, where the warmth of herbs and broth enhances the bright, creamy flavors of the salad.
If you’re craving something wholesome Vegan Creamy Sun Dried Tomato Pasta, serve it alongside, where the crunchy coating plays against the smooth tuna mixture. The contrast of hot and cold, crisp and creamy, makes each bite more satisfying than the last.
This recipe leans into a chef’s trick: using fruit to enhance savory dishes with a touch of natural sweetness. Much like how Moroccan tagines balance spices with dried apricots, the apples in this salad lift the tuna’s richness without overpowering it.
The result? A dish that feels both nourishing and indulgent, making it a go-to for busy weeknights, meal prep, or a refined yet easy lunch.
What I Didn’t Expect About This Recipe?
- The apple-to-tuna ratio matters. Too much, and it’s a fruit salad—too little, and you miss the contrast. The sweet spot? One crisp apple per can of tuna.
- It pairs with everything. Sandwiches, crackers, salads, or just straight from the bowl—this one never gets boring.
- The Dijon makes it. A small spoonful cuts through the creaminess and adds just enough zing to keep every bite interesting.
- It’s ridiculously simple. Five minutes, a handful of ingredients, and no cooking? A lifesaver for last-minute meals.
- It tastes good! The combination of creamy, crunchy, and slightly tangy flavors makes this one of those dishes you keep coming back to.
Tuna Salad With Apples Recipe
Equipment
- Large mixing bowl
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- can opener
- Skillet (for toasting nuts)
Ingredients
- 1 avocado, pitted, peeled and diced
- ⅛ tsp black pepper, or to taste
- ½ tsp fresh lemon juice, or to taste
- 1 medium onion, 1 1/3 cup finely diced
- ½ cup sliced almonds or chopped walnuts, toasted
- 1 medium granny smith apple seeded and diced3/4 cup real mayonnaise, or added to taste
- 20 oz Tuna in water, well-drained
Instructions
- Toast the nuts in a dry skillet over medium heat until golden brown, then remove from heat and let them cool slightly.
- Open the can of tuna, press the lid firmly over the tuna to drain out as much water as possible, and transfer the tuna to a large mixing bowl.
- Dice the apples and celery, then add them to the bowl along with the cooled nuts.
- Season the mixture with a pinch of black pepper and ½ teaspoon of lemon juice, adjusting to taste.
- Finally, mix in mayonnaise gradually, adding a little at a time until the salad reaches your desired level of creaminess.
Notes
- Use a crisp apple variety like Honeycrisp or Fuji for the best texture and sweetness.
- Lightly mashing the tuna with a fork before mixing helps distribute the flavors evenly.
- For extra flavor, add a teaspoon of Dijon mustard or a drizzle of honey.
| Nutrition | Value |
| Calories | 209kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 1g |
| Fibre | 1g |
| Fat | 1g |
| Protein | 16g |
| Cholesterol | 34g |
Variations To Help You Customise This Dish!
- Greek Yogurt Swap: Replace mayo with Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist.
- Sweet & Spicy Kick: Add a handful of dried cranberries and a pinch of cayenne for contrast.
- Nutty Upgrade: Swap walnuts for almonds, pecans, or sunflower seeds for a different crunch.
- Avocado Creaminess: Mash in some ripe avocado for a mayo-free, ultra-creamy texture.
- Cheesy Boost: Stir in crumbled feta or shredded cheddar for extra depth of flavor.
