This twist on a childhood classic is loaded with texture, flavor, and bright colors. It's so delicious and a perfect weeknight meal for the entire fam!
Tuna salad is one of those childhood classics that translates so well in adulthood. You can sandwich it on some white bread and it’s just as tasty as it was back when you ate it at school lunch (and if you felt like the kid who brought the smelly tuna fish from time to time, same - you are supported and loved in this space) OR you can turn things up a notch and dress it up with this dressed up version!
My favorite secret weapon ingredient here: *ground fennel seed. The warm and slightly sweet hint of licorice flavor makes this surprisingly delicious combo come together so beautifully.
Other things to love in this recipe? Crisp, bright scallions, garlicky everything bagel seasoning, and rainbow carrots (classic orange carrots are perf too - I just love to cook with different colors), and toasty, crunchy nuts.
This fancy little twist on tuna salad intensifies the flavors, colors, and textures of a true nostalgic childhood classic, making it perfect as a weekday lunch or weeknight dinner. Keep it old school and enjoy it between two slices of white bread, or serve this over salads, in lettuce wraps, and on toasted sourdough or chewy ciabatta sandwiches alongside a warm mug of soup. One bowl, multiple ways to serve and devour, and a delicious meal for the whole fam? Sign me up!
*Home Cooking Flavor Tip: You can find pre-ground fennel seed at most grocery stores and on Amazon, but if you want maximum fresh flavor, use a mortar and pestle or spice grinder to grind the fennel seeds yourself, along with the whole black peppercorns included in this recipe.
Prep Time: 10 Minutes
Cook Time: 5 Minutes
Yield: 3-4 Servings
Ingredients
2 (5-ounce) cans albacore tuna in water/no salt added, drained well
⅔ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
½ teaspoon fresh lemon juice
1 shallot, diced
3 stalks celery, diced
2 rainbow carrots, peeled and sliced into coins
2 scallions, chopped
¼ cup chopped toasted walnuts
½ teaspoon ground fennel seed (if you want a stronger hint of this flavor after stirring and taste testing, add an additional ¼ teaspoon)
1 tablespoon Everything Bagel Seasoning
Kosher or flaky salt to taste
*Freshly ground black pepper to taste (or whole black peppercorns, see flavor tip above)
Directions
Add all ingredients to a medium bowl and stir until well combined. Enjoy a generous scoop at room temperature by itself, over salads, on sandwiches, or in wraps. Store in the refrigerator in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
