Canned Tuna Salad Cups

Highlighted under: Fast & Easy Recipes

These delightful Canned Tuna Salad Cups are a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy meal or snack. Perfect for lunchboxes or light dinners!

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-31T19:27:28.476Z

These Canned Tuna Salad Cups are not only quick to prepare but also packed with protein and flavor. They are perfect for a healthy lunch or a light dinner, and can be customized with your favorite ingredients.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy days.
  • Packed with protein and healthy fats.
  • Versatile; customize with your favorite veggies and spices!

The Perfect Quick Meal

Canned Tuna Salad Cups are the ideal solution for those hectic days when time is of the essence. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a nutritious meal in under 15 minutes. This makes them a perfect choice for busy parents, professionals, or anyone looking for a satisfying meal without the fuss.

Not only are these salad cups quick to prepare, but they also provide a delicious way to incorporate more protein and healthy fats into your diet. Tuna is a fantastic source of lean protein, and when combined with the right ingredients, it creates a filling meal that will keep you energized throughout the day.

Customizable and Versatile

One of the best features of these Canned Tuna Salad Cups is their versatility. Feel free to experiment with different vegetables, herbs, and spices to create a version that suits your taste buds. You can add diced bell peppers for a crunchy texture, or even some diced pickles for a tangy kick. The possibilities are endless!

Moreover, these salad cups can easily adapt to various dietary preferences. If you're looking for a lighter option, consider using Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise. The flavors will still shine through, and you'll save on calories. This flexibility makes tuna salad cups a go-to recipe for everyone in the family.

Healthy Eating Made Easy

Eating healthy doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. These Canned Tuna Salad Cups are a testament to that. With fresh vegetables and wholesome ingredients, you're not only nourishing your body but also enjoying a meal that's bursting with flavor. It's a great way to introduce more veggies into your diet without feeling like you're sacrificing taste.

Additionally, these salad cups are perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the tuna salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. This way, you have a quick and healthy option ready to go whenever hunger strikes.

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
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  • 4 large lettuce leaves
  • Cherry tomatoes, for garnish
  • Fresh parsley, for garnish

Feel free to add any additional toppings or sides that you enjoy!

Instructions

Prepare the Tuna Salad

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

Assemble the Cups

Take a large lettuce leaf and spoon the tuna salad mixture into the center. Fold the sides of the lettuce to create a cup shape.

Garnish and Serve

Top with cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

These cups can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for a quick meal option.

Storage Tips

To keep your Canned Tuna Salad fresh, store the tuna mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay good for up to three days, making it a great option for meal prepping. Just remember to keep your lettuce leaves separate until you're ready to assemble your cups to maintain their crispness.

If you find yourself with leftovers, consider using the tuna salad in a sandwich or on top of a green salad for a quick meal the next day. The flavors continue to develop, making it just as delicious!

Nutritional Benefits

Tuna is not only a protein powerhouse but also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are crucial for heart health. Incorporating this nutritious fish into your diet can help lower cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart disease. Pairing it with crunchy vegetables adds fiber, aiding digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness.

The addition of celery and red onion not only enhances the flavor but also provides essential vitamins and minerals. Celery is known for its hydrating properties, while red onions contain antioxidants that support overall health. Together, these ingredients make for a well-balanced, nutrient-dense meal.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh tuna, but ensure it's properly cooked and flaked before mixing.

→ How long can I store the tuna salad?

The tuna salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with these tuna salad cups?

You can serve them with whole-grain crackers, fresh veggies, or a side salad.

→ Can I make these tuna salad cups vegetarian?

Yes, you can replace the tuna with chickpeas or a bean salad for a vegetarian option.

Canned Tuna Salad Cups

These delightful Canned Tuna Salad Cups are a quick and easy way to enjoy a healthy meal or snack. Perfect for lunchboxes or light dinners!

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time15 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Fast & Easy Recipes

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Tuna Salad

  1. 2 cans of tuna, drained
  2. 1/4 cup mayonnaise
  3. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  4. 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
  5. 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
  6. Salt and pepper to taste

For Serving

  1. 4 large lettuce leaves
  2. Cherry tomatoes, for garnish
  3. Fresh parsley, for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

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

Step 02

Take a large lettuce leaf and spoon the tuna salad mixture into the center. Fold the sides of the lettuce to create a cup shape.

Step 03

Top with cherry tomatoes and fresh parsley for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 220 kcal
  • Total Fat: 12g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 7g
  • Dietary Fiber: 1g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 25g