Tuna salad

Tuna Salad – A Quick and Delicious Recipe

Preparation time: 10 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes
Number of servings: 4

Who doesn't love a fresh salad, full of flavors and interesting textures? Tuna salad is a versatile dish that can quickly become a hearty snack or an elegant appetizer at a festive meal. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines tuna with sweet corn and creamy mayonnaise, bringing a touch of freshness through its decoration with crunchy vegetables.

A bit of history
Tuna salad has its origins in the culinary tradition of canned foods, which became popular in the 20th century. It was an ingenious solution to preserve fish and make it accessible year-round. Over time, tuna salad has evolved, becoming a favorite dish in many cultures, adapting to local tastes and ingredients. Today, it enjoys immense popularity, being easy to prepare and packed with nutrients.

Ingredients

- 2 cans of tuna chunks in its own juice (approximately 280g each)
- 1 small can of corn (approximately 150g)
- 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise (preferably homemade for an authentic taste)
- 1 pickled cucumber (or fresh, if you prefer)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Optional: juice of one lemon (for an extra touch of freshness)
- Garnish: lemon slices, olives, fresh cucumbers, or pickles

Nutritional information
This tuna salad is an excellent source of protein thanks to the tuna, making it a healthy option for a snack or a quick lunch. One serving contains approximately 250 calories, 15g of fat, 14g of carbohydrates, and 20g of protein. It is rich in Omega-3 and vitamin D, contributing to heart and bone health.

Preparing the tuna salad

1. Draining the ingredients
Start by opening the two cans of tuna and draining them well. Make sure the tuna is completely drained of liquid to avoid a soggy salad. Do the same with the corn, draining it in a colander.

2. Mixing the ingredients
In a large bowl, add the drained tuna, corn, and 4 tablespoons of mayonnaise. Use a spatula or a large spoon to gently mix the ingredients, ensuring that the tuna remains in large chunks and the corn is evenly distributed.

3. Seasoning
Add salt and pepper to taste. If you want to add a touch of freshness, now is the time to add the lemon juice. Mix again to incorporate the seasonings well.

4. Assembling
Transfer the tuna mixture to a serving platter or bowl. You can arrange it nicely, forming a ball or an evenly sized shape.

5. Decorating
Show your artistic side! Decorate the salad with cucumber slices, olives, and lemon slices. These not only add an attractive look but also enhance the flavor.

6. Serving
Tuna salad is delicious both cold and at room temperature. Serve it alongside toasted bread, crackers, or even with sliced fresh vegetables for a healthier option.

Variations and useful tips
- If you want to experiment, you can add ingredients like finely chopped bell pepper, red onion, or capers to diversify the flavors.
- Instead of mayonnaise, you can use Greek yogurt for a lighter and healthier version.
- Another delicious option is to add a bit of mustard or soy sauce for a more intense flavor.
- If you prefer a spicier salad, you can add a dash of sriracha sauce or chili flakes.

Frequently asked questions
1. Can I use tuna in oil?
Yes, you can use tuna in oil for a richer taste, but you will need to adjust the amount of mayonnaise to avoid making the salad too greasy.

2. What is the best type of mayonnaise for this recipe?
Homemade mayonnaise is ideal, but you can also use store-bought mayonnaise, ensuring you choose a quality version.

3. How can I store the tuna salad?
Tuna salad stores well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 2-3 days. Make sure to mix it well before serving again.

4. What can I serve with tuna salad?
Tuna salad pairs excellently with a slice of toasted bread, mashed potatoes, or even grilled vegetables. You can also serve it as a filling for sandwiches or wraps.

I hope this tuna salad recipe has inspired you to try it! It is easy to prepare, quick, and extremely tasty. Try to personalize it according to your preferences and remember to enjoy every bite. Bon appétit!