Tuna Salad with Cucumber and Lemon
A refreshing and simple tuna salad, perfect for a light lunch. Creamy mayo, crisp cucumber and celery, and a bright squeeze of lemon make this a classic. Ready in minutes and great on rice cakes.
For 2 servings
Prepare the ingredients.
- Drain the canned tuna very well, pressing to remove excess water.
- Finely dice the cucumber and celery.
- Squeeze the lemon for fresh juice.
TIPGetting the tuna as dry as possible prevents a watery salad.Mix the tuna salad.
In a medium bowl, flake the drained tuna with a fork. Add the mayonnaise, diced cucumber, diced celery, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper. Gently mix until just combined.
TIPAvoid overmixing, which can make the tuna mushy. Stop as soon as the ingredients are evenly distributed.Assemble and serve.
Divide the tuna salad mixture evenly and spread it over the four rice cakes. Serve immediately for the best texture.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the refrigerator for 15-20 minutes before serving.
- 2Ensure your cucumber and celery are diced very finely for a better texture and easier eating.
- 3If you don't have fresh lemon, you can use bottled lemon juice, but fresh is always best.
- 4This salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Store rice cakes separately to prevent them from getting soggy.
Adapt it for your goals.
Dairy free
Use a certified dairy-free or vegan mayonnaise to make this recipe completely dairy-free.
high proteinHigh protein
Add one chopped hard-boiled egg to the salad mixture for an extra boost of protein.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Dice the vegetables extra fine and reduce the amount of lemon juice for a milder flavor that kids often prefer.
quickQuick
Use pre-diced celery and onion from the grocery store to cut down on prep time.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Tuna is packed with high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, and helps keep you feeling full and satisfied.
Rich in Omega-3s
Tuna is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are known to support heart and brain health.
Provides Hydration
Cucumbers have a high water content, which contributes to your daily hydration needs.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, tuna salad can be very healthy. Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids. The main source of calories and fat comes from mayonnaise, so using it in moderation is key. This recipe is balanced for a light and nutritious meal.