Simple Mediterranean Tuna Salad (Printable version)
A bright and refreshing Mediterranean tuna salad with crisp vegetables, olives, and zesty lemon dressing ready in 15 minutes.
# Ingredient List:
→ Proteins
01 - 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in olive oil, drained
→ Vegetables
02 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
03 - 1 medium cucumber, diced
04 - 1/4 red onion, finely sliced
05 - 1/2 cup roasted red peppers, sliced
06 - 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
→ Add-Ins
07 - 1/3 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
08 - 1/4 cup capers, rinsed
→ Dressing
09 - 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
10 - Juice of 1 lemon
11 - 1 garlic clove, minced
12 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
# How to Make It:
01 - In a large bowl, add the drained tuna and flake gently with a fork.
02 - Add cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, roasted red peppers, parsley, olives, and capers to the bowl.
03 - In a small bowl or jar, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper until well combined.
04 - Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and toss gently to combine, ensuring everything is evenly coated.
05 - Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve immediately, or refrigerate for up to 2 hours for flavors to meld.
# Expert Suggestions:
01 -
- It comes together in literally 15 minutes but tastes like something you'd order at a seaside restaurant
- The flavors somehow get even better after sitting for an hour, making it perfect for meal prep
02 -
- I learned the hard way that adding the dressing too far ahead makes the vegetables release water and turn everything soggy
- Letting it sit for 30 minutes before serving transforms it from good to absolutely incredible
03 -
- Use the oil from the tuna cans as part of your dressing for maximum flavor
- If making ahead, keep the dressing separate and toss right before serving