Tuna Salad with Mayonnaise (Classic, Creamy & Simple)

This tuna salad with mayonnaise is creamy, tangy, and so simple to make – just canned tuna, mayo, mustard, and crunchy pickles. It’s fresh, balanced, and full of flavor, the kind of salad you can throw together in minutes and it always hits the spot, honestly it’s the best tuna salad recipe I’ve ever made.

I’ve made so many versions over the years, but this one is my go-to. The chives add a little freshness, the red onion gives a subtle crunch, and the pickles tie it all together. It’s the perfect mix of creamy and tangy – simple, classic, and exactly what you want in a tuna salad. Whether you serve it on toast, in a sandwich, or straight from the bowl, this easy tuna salad recipe is one you’ll come back to again and again.

Why You’ll Love This Tuna Salad with Mayonnaise

• Simple and classic: a quick, foolproof tuna salad that always works.
• Everyday ingredients: canned tuna, mayo, mustard, chives, and pickles – all pantry staples.
• Creamy and tangy: perfectly balanced with just the right crunch from onion and pickles.
• Ready in minutes: a go-to for busy days, snacks, or light lunches.
• Versatile: great in sandwiches, wraps, or straight from the bowl.
• Easy to customize: add your favorite herbs or mix-ins – it always turns out delicious.

Watch How It’s Made

See exactly how this tuna salad with mayonnaise comes together in minutes – quick, creamy, and full of flavor.

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Ingredients for the Best Tuna Salad Recipe

Here’s what goes into this simple tuna salad with mayonnaise – everything works together to make it creamy, tangy, and full of flavor:

• Canned tuna: use two cans (about 160g each before draining). The best canned tuna salad starts with good-quality tuna in water or oil – whichever you prefer. I always go with the oil kind.
• Mayonnaise: adds richness and creaminess – the base of this classic tuna salad recipe.
• Mustard: brings just enough tang and flavor. Dijon or grainy both work beautifully.
• Pickles: finely chopped for a bit of crunch and saltiness – they make a huge difference.
• Chives: add color, mild onion flavor, and freshness.
• Red onion: a sharper bite that balances the creamy base as well as adds crunch.
• Lemon juice: a small squeeze brightens everything and ties the flavors together.
• Olive oil: a drizzle for extra smoothness.
• Salt and pepper: to taste – keep in mind the tuna and pickles already add saltiness.

How to Make the Best Tuna Salad with Mayonnaise

This best easy tuna salad recipe comes together in just a few minutes – no fancy tools needed, just a bowl and a spoon.

1. Add the drained tuna to a bowl.
2. Mix in the chopped red onion, chives, and pickles.
3. Add the mayo, mustard, olive oil, and a small squeeze of lemon juice.
4. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Stir until creamy and well combined – that’s it.

That’s it – your classic tuna salad recipe is ready to serve.

Storage & Make-Ahead Tips

This simple tuna salad recipe keeps really well, which makes it perfect for meal prep or quick lunches.

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Give it a quick stir before serving – the mayo may thicken slightly after chilling.
• It’s best served cold or at room temperature – don’t leave it out for too long.

Add-Ins & Variations

Once you’ve made this tuna salad, you can keep it simple or play around with different flavors. Here are a few easy ideas to change it up:

• Make it spicy: add a finely chopped chili or a pinch of chili flakes.
• Change the herbs: swap the chives for parsley, dill, or cilantro for a fresh twist.
• Add crunch: mix in a stick of finely chopped celery.
• Add capers: for a salty, briny kick that works perfectly with tuna and pickles.
• Boost the flavor: add a touch of garlic powder, paprika, or lemon zest.
• Make it creamy without mayo: use half Greek yogurt and half mayo for a lighter version.

Best Ways to Eat It

This easy tuna salad recipe is super versatile – here are a few of my favorite ways to serve it:

• In a sandwich: soft bread, toasted bread, or even in a roll – all work beautifully.
• As a tuna melt: layer it with cheese and toast until warm and gooey.
• With veggies: serve with cucumber or carrot sticks for a light snack.
• On toast or crackers: perfect for a quick bite or easy lunch.
• In lettuce cups: a simple salad with tuna recipe idea for a lighter meal.

More Salads & Easy Recipes to Try

If you loved this tuna salad recipe, here are more easy, flavor-packed ideas you’ll enjoy:

• The Best Egg Salad: Quick, Easy, and Packed with Flavor
• Beetroot Tzatziki (Easy, Vibrant, and So Delicious)
• Green Onion Dip (Easy 3-Ingredient Recipe)
• Matbucha – A Simple, Slow-Cooked Moroccan Tomato Spread

Each one is fresh, easy, and perfect to pair with bread, veggies, or your next lunch spread.

Perfect Breads to Serve It With

Pair your tuna salad with one of these homemade breads:

• Pesto Bread Recipe – fluffy, flavorful, and perfect for sandwiches.
• Sandwich Buns Recipe – soft, golden, and freezer-friendly.

Are You Ready to Try It?

This salad is everything you want in a quick, satisfying meal – creamy, tangy, and full of flavor from the chives, mustard, and pickles. It’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or a simple lunch you can make in minutes. Once you try it, you’ll never go back to store-bought tuna salad again.

There’s something about a classic like this tuna salad recipe that never gets old. It’s quick to make, endlessly customizable, and always hits the spot – whether you’re meal-prepping, making a sandwich, or just craving something fresh and creamy.

If you try it, I’d love to hear how you make it your own – maybe extra pickles, a touch of spice, or your favorite herbs. Leave a comment below and let me know how it turns out!