Spicy Tuna Salad with Water Chestnuts
A quick, no-cook spicy tuna salad featuring the delightful crunch of water chestnuts, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
For 2 servings
Drain the canned tuna thoroughly, pressing out excess water or oil. Transfer the tuna to a medium mixing bowl and flake it apart with a fork.
Drain the canned water chestnuts and finely dice them. Finely dice the celery stalk and mince the red onion. Chop the fresh chives or green onion. Add all prepared vegetables to the bowl with the tuna.
Add the plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), sriracha sauce, fresh lemon juice, a pinch of salt, and a pinch of black pepper to the bowl.
Gently fold all ingredients together until well combined. Be careful not to overmix, which can make the tuna mushy.
Taste the salad and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more sriracha for extra heat, or salt and pepper to taste.
For best flavor, cover the bowl and refrigerate the tuna salad for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld and chill thoroughly.
Serve chilled in crisp lettuce cups, scooped onto whole-grain crackers, or as a sandwich filling.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Drain Tuna Well: Ensure your tuna is very well drained to prevent a watery salad. If using tuna in oil, you can rinse it briefly under cold water for a lighter flavor.
- 2Adjust Spice: Sriracha heat can vary. Start with 1/2 teaspoon and add more gradually until you reach your desired spice level.
- 3Texture Control: For a creamier salad, add a touch more Greek yogurt or mayo. For more crunch, increase the amount of water chestnuts or celery.
- 4Chill for Flavor: While edible immediately, chilling the salad for at least 15-20 minutes allows the flavors to deepen and meld, significantly improving the taste.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Use canned salmon or shredded cooked chicken breast instead of tuna for a different flavor profile.
Binder AlternativeBinder Alternative
Replace Greek yogurt with mayonnaise for a richer, more traditional tuna salad, or use a blend of both. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based mayonnaise.
Spice & Herb TwistSpice & Herb Twist
Experiment with other hot sauces like gochujang or sambal oelek, and add fresh cilantro or dill for different aromatic notes.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3s
Tuna provides beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, brain function, and may reduce inflammation.
High Protein
This salad is packed with protein from tuna and Greek yogurt, promoting satiety, aiding in muscle maintenance, and supporting overall energy levels.
Crunchy Vegetables
Water chestnuts and celery add fiber and essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to digestive health and providing a satisfying texture without excess calories.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, this tuna salad can be prepared up to 2-3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors often improve after a few hours of chilling.
