Spicy Zesty Tuna Salad (Print)

Vibrant tuna salad with spicy mayo, fresh lemon, and crisp scallions. Protein-packed and ready in 10 minutes.

# Ingredients:

→ Seafood

01 - 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained

→ Vegetables & Aromatics

02 - 2 scallions, thinly sliced
03 - 1 celery stalk, finely diced (optional)

→ Dressing

04 - 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
05 - 2 teaspoons Sriracha or hot sauce
06 - 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
07 - 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
08 - 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
09 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

→ Garnish

10 - 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or cilantro (optional)
11 - Lemon wedges (optional)

# Instructions:

01 - In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Sriracha, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth.
02 - Add drained tuna, scallions, and celery if using to the bowl. Gently mix until tuna is evenly coated with dressing.
03 - Taste and adjust seasoning by adding more lemon juice or hot sauce as desired.
04 - Serve immediately garnished with fresh herbs and lemon wedges, or chill for 30 minutes for enhanced flavor.

# Pro Tips:

01 -
  • It takes less time than waiting in a drive-thru line and costs a fraction of the price.
  • The spicy mayo coating clings to every flake of tuna without feeling heavy or bland.
  • You can adjust the heat level and acidity on the fly, making it yours every single time.
  • It works as a sandwich filling, a wrap center, or eaten solo with a spoon when youre too hungry to care.
02 -
  • Drain the tuna thoroughly or the dressing will turn watery and slide off instead of clinging to the fish.
  • Whisking the dressing first ensures every ingredient is evenly distributed before the tuna goes in.
  • Tasting before serving is non-negotiable, canned tuna brands vary in saltiness and you need to adjust accordingly.
03 -
  • Use a fork to flake the tuna instead of a spoon, it gives you more control and prevents overmixing.
  • Let the dressing sit for a minute before adding the tuna so the garlic powder has time to bloom and release its flavor.
  • If youre serving this at a gathering, keep it chilled until the last minute and set out extra lemon wedges and hot sauce so everyone can customize their portion.
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