Canned Tuna Salad Cups

Name: Canned Tuna Salad Cups
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of tuna, drained; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 head of butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated; Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional); Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Simple Everyday Cooking

Enjoy a quick and delicious meal with these Canned Tuna Salad Cups, perfect for lunch or a light dinner.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-31T17:18:30.012Z

Canned Tuna Salad Cups are a delightful, easy-to-make dish that combines the rich flavor of tuna with fresh vegetables and creamy dressing, all served in crisp lettuce cups. Perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner, this recipe is not only delicious but also nutritious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare in just 15 minutes
Packed with protein and healthy fats
Versatile: customize with your favorite ingredients
Perfect for meal prep or a quick snack

      

A Quick and Nutritious Option

Canned Tuna Salad Cups are an excellent choice for anyone looking for a nutritious meal that won't take hours to prepare. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a protein-packed dish that satisfies your hunger without weighing you down. The combination of tuna and mayonnaise provides a creamy base that pairs perfectly with the crunch of fresh vegetables, making each bite a delightful experience.

In just 15 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal ready to enjoy. This recipe is perfect for busy weekdays when you need something filling yet light. Whether you’re returning home from work or need a quick lunch while working from home, these tuna salad cups will keep you energized throughout the day.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best aspects of Canned Tuna Salad Cups is their versatility. Feel free to personalize the recipe by adding your favorite ingredients. Want a bit of crunch? Toss in some diced pickles or bell peppers. Prefer a touch of sweetness? A spoonful of sweet relish or diced apples can elevate the flavors beautifully. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to create a dish that suits your taste.

This recipe also works well for meal prep. Prepare a larger batch of the tuna salad and portion it into individual cups for quick lunches throughout the week. You can mix and match toppings like avocado, cucumber, or even a sprinkle of cheese to keep things interesting.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Canned Tuna Salad Cups are not just for lunch; they’re a fantastic option for light dinners or even appetizers at gatherings. The colorful presentation of lettuce cups filled with tuna salad makes them an attractive choice for parties or picnics. Guests will love the fresh flavors, and you can feel good knowing that you’re serving a healthy option.

Additionally, this dish is gluten-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences. Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or planning a holiday feast, these tuna salad cups will impress your guests and keep them coming back for more.

Ingredients

For the Tuna Salad

2 cans of tuna, drained
1/4 cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

1 head of butter lettuce or romaine, leaves separated
Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional)
Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Combine all ingredients in a bowl and mix well.

Instructions

Prepare the Tuna Salad

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, chopped red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.

Assemble the Cups

Take a lettuce leaf and fill it with the tuna salad mixture. Top with cherry tomatoes and fresh herbs if desired.

Serve

Arrange the filled lettuce cups on a platter and serve immediately.

Enjoy your fresh and easy Canned Tuna Salad Cups!

Storage Tips

If you have leftover tuna salad, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prep. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply scoop it back into fresh lettuce leaves for a quick meal.

Avoid storing the filled lettuce cups as the leaves can become soggy. Instead, keep the tuna salad and lettuce separate until you're ready to serve. This ensures that your lettuce stays crisp and your salad fresh.

Nutritional Benefits

Tuna is an excellent source of protein, providing essential amino acids that help build and repair tissues. It’s also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are known for their heart-healthy benefits. Incorporating tuna salad into your diet can help support overall health and wellness.

The addition of fresh vegetables like celery and red onion contributes fiber, vitamins, and minerals, enhancing the nutritional profile of this dish. This makes it not only satisfying but also a smart choice for maintaining a balanced diet.

Serving Suggestions

While these tuna salad cups are delicious on their own, you can enhance your meal with additional sides. Consider serving them with a side of fresh fruit or a light soup for a well-rounded lunch or dinner.

For a more filling option, pair the tuna salad cups with whole grain crackers or a slice of whole grain bread. This adds a satisfying crunch and provides additional fiber, making your meal even more nutritious.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked fresh tuna; just ensure it's well-flaked.

→ How long can I store leftover tuna salad?

Leftover tuna salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

You can use Greek yogurt or avocado as a healthier alternative to mayonnaise.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free mayonnaise and serve in lettuce cups, this recipe is gluten-free.