Canned Tuna Salad Cups

Name: Canned Tuna Salad Cups
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 can (5 oz) of tuna, drained; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped; 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; 4 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce); Cherry tomatoes, for garnish (optional)

Highlighted under: Easy Plates

Delight in these quick and easy Canned Tuna Salad Cups, perfect for a light lunch or appetizer.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-31T18:03:27.919Z

This Canned Tuna Salad Cups recipe combines the savory flavor of tuna with fresh vegetables and delightful seasonings, all served in crisp lettuce cups. It's an ideal solution for a quick meal or a nutritious snack.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days
Packed with protein and healthy ingredients
Versatile - customize with your favorite add-ins
Great for meal prep or serving at parties

      

Quick and Convenient Meal Option

Canned Tuna Salad Cups are the epitome of convenience when it comes to meal preparation. With just a few simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious and nutritious dish in no time. This recipe is perfect for those busy weekdays when you want something healthy without spending hours in the kitchen. Simply open a can of tuna, mix in your ingredients, and you’re ready to go!

Moreover, these tuna salad cups are not only quick to prepare but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize them to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. Whether you want to add some avocado for creaminess, diced pickles for a tangy kick, or even some chopped hard-boiled eggs for extra protein, the possibilities are endless!

Healthy and Nutritious

Packed with protein, these Canned Tuna Salad Cups are a great option for anyone looking to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Tuna is not only rich in protein but also offers essential omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for heart health. Combined with fresh vegetables like celery and red onion, this dish provides a satisfying crunch and a wealth of vitamins and minerals.

Using mayonnaise and Dijon mustard in moderation adds flavor without overwhelming the health benefits of the ingredients. You can also opt for Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a lighter, tangy alternative that boosts the protein content even further. This makes the salad both a tasty and guilt-free choice for lunch or a snack!

Perfect for Meal Prep and Entertaining

These Canned Tuna Salad Cups are a fantastic option for meal prep. You can make a larger batch of tuna salad ahead of time and store it in the fridge for several days. This not only saves you time during busy weeks but also ensures you have a healthy meal ready to go whenever hunger strikes. Just assemble the lettuce cups as needed, and you’ll have a fresh, crisp meal in minutes.

Additionally, these tuna salad cups make an impressive appetizer for gatherings or parties. Their bite-sized format is perfect for entertaining, allowing guests to enjoy a delicious, protein-packed treat without the mess. Dress them up with garnishes like cherry tomatoes or fresh herbs for an eye-catching presentation that will wow your guests!

Ingredients

For the Tuna Salad

1 can (5 oz) of tuna, drained
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
Salt and pepper, to taste

For Serving

4 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce)
Cherry tomatoes, for garnish (optional)

Mix all ingredients in a bowl and serve immediately.

Instructions

Prepare the Tuna Salad

In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, and red onion. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Assemble the Cups

Take a large lettuce leaf and spoon a generous amount of the tuna salad into the center. Repeat with the remaining leaves.

Garnish and Serve

If desired, add cherry tomatoes for garnish and serve immediately.

Enjoy your healthy and delicious Tuna Salad Cups!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, consider adding a squeeze of lemon juice or some diced pickles to the tuna mixture.

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. However, it's best to assemble the lettuce cups just before serving to maintain the crispness of the lettuce. You can also prepare the tuna salad a day in advance for even quicker assembly when you're ready to eat.

For longer storage, consider freezing the tuna salad mixture in a freezer-safe container. While the texture may change slightly upon thawing, it will still be delicious. Just be sure to thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before serving.

Serving Suggestions

While lettuce cups provide a refreshing base for the tuna salad, feel free to get creative with your serving options! You can serve the tuna salad on whole grain crackers, in pita pockets, or even atop a bed of mixed greens for a heartier meal. Each option offers a unique twist that can keep your lunches exciting and nutritious.

For added flavor, consider drizzling a bit of balsamic glaze or hot sauce over the assembled cups. This simple addition can elevate your dish and cater to different taste preferences, making it a hit at any table.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, you can use cooked, fresh tuna. Just make sure to flake it into small pieces.

→ How long can I store leftover tuna salad?

Leftover tuna salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days in an airtight container.

→ What can I substitute for mayonnaise?

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

→ Can I add other vegetables to the salad?

Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, cucumbers, or even olives can add great flavor and texture.