Tuna salad with celery

Tuna Salad with Celery – A Quick and Satisfying Delight

Preparation time: 15 minutes
Resting time: 2 hours
Total time: 2 hours and 15 minutes
Number of servings: 4

In a busy world, where time is often a luxury, tuna salad with celery becomes the perfect solution for quick, healthy, and delicious meals. This simple yet sophisticated recipe is a perfect combination of textures and flavors, evoking cherished memories and bringing a smile to anyone who enjoys it.

A little history: Tuna salad is a classic dish that initially emerged as a method of preserving fish, bringing together simple ingredients in a harmonious combination. Over time, it has evolved into numerous variations and today is a favorite in many kitchens, being not only tasty but also nutritious.

Necessary ingredients:

- 1 can of high-quality canned tuna (recommended: tuna in oil or water, as you prefer)
- 1 bunch of celery
- 1 egg (for mayonnaise)
- 100 ml sunflower oil (or a mix with olive oil for a more sophisticated taste)
- 1 teaspoon mustard (optional, for an extra flavor)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 medium red onion
- Love, the secret ingredient that makes any recipe special

Decoration:

- Fresh celery leaves
- A tomato cut into a rose shape (for an elegant look)
- A few slices of onion
- 4-5 pieces of celery from the middle, finely chopped

Preparation method:

1. Preparing the mayonnaise:
Start by making the mayonnaise. Crack the egg into a deep bowl, add a few drops of lemon juice (to prevent coagulation) and the mustard if you choose to use it. Use an immersion blender and start mixing, gradually pouring in the oil until you achieve a creamy consistency. Season with salt and pepper to taste. If you prefer, you can adjust the consistency by adding a little water.

2. Preparing the ingredients:
While the mayonnaise thickens, drain the tuna and place it in a large bowl. Add the finely chopped red onion and diced celery. Ensure that the celery is fresh and crunchy to add a pleasant texture to the salad.

3. Mixing the ingredients:
Add the prepared mayonnaise over the tuna, onion, and celery mixture. Gently mix with a spatula so that all ingredients combine evenly without breaking the tuna.

4. Seasoning:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. I advise you to taste the mixture and adjust the seasonings according to your preferences.

5. Resting the salad:
Now comes a crucial trick: let the salad rest in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and intensify, resulting in a salad with a remarkable taste.

6. Serving:
When serving, place the salad on a platter and decorate with celery leaves, the tomato cut into a rose shape, and a few slices of onion. This detail will add an elegant and appetizing look, perfect for a special meal or a casual dinner with friends.

Serving suggestions:
Tuna salad with celery pairs wonderfully with fresh bread or savory crackers. You can also serve it on a bed of fresh green salad or on sandwiches, turning it into a delicious and nutritious lunch.

Nutritional benefits:
This salad is an excellent source of protein due to the tuna, while the celery adds fiber and vitamins. The mayonnaise, although caloric, can be made with olive oil for an extra nutrient boost. Each serving has approximately 250 calories, depending on the amount of mayonnaise used.

Frequently asked questions:

1. Can I use canned tuna in water?
Yes, canned tuna in water has a lower calorie content and is a healthy choice.

2. How can I vary the ingredients?
You can add chopped olives, corn, or bell peppers for an extra splash of color and flavor.

3. Can it be prepared a day in advance?
Absolutely! The salad will have time to rest, and the flavors will become even more intense.

4. What are the best drinks to accompany this salad?
A fresh lemonade or a dry white wine are excellent choices that complement the salad's taste.

In conclusion, tuna salad with celery is not just a quick and simple recipe but also an opportunity to experiment in the kitchen. With each bite, you will feel not only the delicious taste but also the love you put into the preparation. Enjoy your meal!