If you’re craving something fresh, vibrant, and packed with bold flavors, this Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe is an absolute winner. Combining the briny punch of Kalamata olives, the creamy tang of feta cheese, and the crisp freshness of cucumbers and cherry tomatoes, this salad bursts with color and texture in every bite. Best of all, it comes together in just ten minutes, making it the perfect light lunch or easy dinner that tastes like you spent hours crafting it.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe plays a crucial role, contributing unique flavors and textures that elevate the dish from simple to spectacular. From the protein-packed tuna to the herbaceous kick of fresh parsley, these pantry essentials are all you need for a delightful meal.
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna packed in water, drained: Provides lean protein and a mild, flaky base for the salad.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved: Adds juicy sweetness and vibrant color.
- 1 cucumber, diced: Brings a refreshing crunch that balances the richness of the tuna and feta.
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped: Introduces a subtle sharpness and depth of flavor.
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced: Offers a salty, briny contrast that’s characteristic of Mediterranean cuisine.
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese: Adds creamy tanginess and a luscious texture.
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped: Gives a fresh herbal note and brightens flavors.
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: Lifts the dish with zesty acidity.
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil: Provides a silky richness that ties everything together.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuses an earthy, aromatic hint.
- Salt and black pepper, to taste: Balances all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe
Step 1: Combine the Fresh Ingredients
Start by placing the drained tuna into a large bowl. Then, toss in the halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley. This colorful medley forms the heart of your Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe and already smells incredible.
Step 2: Whisk the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. This simple dressing adds brightness and a luxurious gloss to the salad, highlighting all the vibrant ingredients.
Step 3: Toss and Coat
Pour the dressing over the tuna and vegetable mixture, then gently toss everything together so each bite is evenly coated. Be careful not to break up the tuna too much; you want to keep those tender chunks intact for texture contrast.
Step 4: Adjust and Chill or Serve
Give your salad a quick taste and adjust the seasoning with a pinch more salt or pepper if needed. You can serve it immediately for a fresh, lively bite or chill it for 30 minutes to let the flavors meld beautifully. Both ways are delicious!
How to Serve Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe
Garnishes
Add a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or a few extra Kalamata olives on top to give your salad a polished, restaurant-worthy look. A light drizzle of olive oil just before serving can add an appealing sheen and more flavor depth.
Side Dishes
This Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe pairs wonderfully with warm pita bread, crusty baguette slices, or a bed of mixed greens. If you’re after something heartier, roasted potatoes or quinoa can round it out for a satisfying meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming presentation, serve the salad in individual small bowls garnished with lemon wedges on the side. Alternatively, use hollowed-out tomatoes or cucumbers as edible bowls to impress your guests and add a fun twist.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The salad is best enjoyed fresh, but keeping it cold preserves the flavors and the crispness of the vegetables well.
Freezing
We don’t recommend freezing this Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe because the fresh vegetables and feta cheese can become watery or change texture upon thawing, which will affect the overall taste and mouthfeel.
Reheating
This salad is designed to be enjoyed cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. Just give it a gentle toss before serving if it’s been chilled to bring out the fresh flavors again.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna?
Absolutely! Fresh tuna can be grilled or seared and then flaked into the salad for a gourmet touch. Just make sure it’s cooked and cooled before combining with the other ingredients.
Is this Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep. Prepare and store it in individual containers for easy grab-and-go lunches throughout the week, just keep the dressing separate until ready to eat if possible.
Can I substitute feta cheese if I’m allergic to dairy?
You can replace feta with a dairy-free cheese alternative or omit it altogether. Adding toasted nuts like pine nuts can help add some texture and richness to the salad.
How can I make this salad more filling?
Add cooked grains like quinoa, farro, or couscous, or toss in some chickpeas to boost fiber and make the Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe even more satisfying.
What is the best way to pit Kalamata olives?
Simply press down on the olive with the flat side of a knife or use an olive pitter to remove the pit easily. This ensures smooth bites without any surprises while eating.
Final Thoughts
There’s just something irresistible about this Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe—it’s fresh, flavorful, and so simple to make. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a light dinner, it’s a fantastic choice that never disappoints. I can’t wait for you to try it and add this vibrant salad to your go-to recipe collection!
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Mediterranean Tuna Salad Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Low Fat
Description
A quick and refreshing Mediterranean Tuna Salad featuring tender tuna, vibrant cherry tomatoes, crisp cucumber, tangy Kalamata olives, and creamy feta cheese, all tossed in a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing with fresh herbs. Perfect for a light lunch or a healthy snack.
Ingredients
Salad Ingredients
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna packed in water, drained
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cucumber, diced
- 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Dressing Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the salad base: In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, sliced Kalamata olives, crumbled feta cheese, and chopped fresh parsley.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together the fresh lemon juice, extra virgin olive oil, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper until the mixture is thoroughly combined and emulsified.
- Toss the salad: Pour the dressing over the tuna and vegetable mixture, then gently toss everything together until all the ingredients are evenly coated with the dressing.
- Adjust and serve: Taste the salad and adjust the seasoning with additional salt and pepper if necessary. Serve immediately for a fresh taste or chill for 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully before serving.
Notes
- For an added crunch, consider topping the salad with toasted pine nuts or chopped almonds.
- Substitute feta cheese with goat cheese for a different flavor profile.
- This salad can be served on a bed of mixed greens or stuffed into pita bread for a Mediterranean-inspired wrap.
- Chilling the salad enhances the flavor but avoid making it too early to prevent the vegetables from becoming soggy.
