Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad is a delicious, protein-packed dish that’s perfect for a quick lunch or a light dinner. This salad combines the richness of hard-boiled eggs with the savory flavor of tuna, and it’s finished with a creamy dressing. Whether served on a bed of lettuce, in a sandwich, or with crackers, this salad is a versatile meal that’s easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying. Below, we’ll walk you through the steps to make the perfect Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad, complete with tips, variations, and answers to common questions.
Ingredients for Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad
For this classic Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- Canned Tuna: 2 cans (5 oz each), drained
- Hard-Boiled Eggs: 4 large eggs, peeled and chopped
- Mayonnaise: 1/4 cup (adjust to taste)
- Dijon Mustard: 1 tablespoon
- Celery: 2 stalks, finely chopped
- Red Onion: 1/4 cup, finely diced
- Lemon Juice: 1 tablespoon, freshly squeezed
- Fresh Parsley: 2 tablespoons, chopped (optional)
- Salt and Pepper: To taste
- Lettuce or Mixed Greens: Optional, for serving
- Crackers or Bread: Optional, for serving
Optional Add-Ins
- Pickles or Relish: For a tangy flavor
- Capers: Add a briny punch
- Olives: A Mediterranean twist
- Avocado: For a creamy texture and healthy fats
How to Make Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad
Step 1: Prepare the Hard-Boiled Eggs
Start by boiling your eggs. Place the eggs in a saucepan and cover them with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and let the eggs simmer for 9-12 minutes. Once done, transfer the eggs to an ice water bath to cool. This step helps make peeling easier.
After cooling, peel and chop the eggs into bite-sized pieces.
Step 2: Drain and Flake the Tuna
While the eggs are cooling, open your canned tuna and drain any excess water or oil. Flake the tuna with a fork and place it into a large mixing bowl.
Step 3: Combine Ingredients
Now that your tuna is ready, it’s time to assemble the salad.
- In a large mixing bowl, add the drained tuna, chopped eggs, diced celery, and red onion.
- Add the mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice, and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Mix the salad gently until all the ingredients are well combined. Taste and adjust the seasoning or add more mayonnaise if you prefer a creamier texture.
Step 4: Customize the Salad
One of the best things about Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad is how versatile it can be. You can easily customize it based on your taste preferences.
- For added flavor, consider mixing in chopped pickles, capers, or olives.
- For extra creaminess, try adding avocado.
- For a Mediterranean twist, add some crumbled feta cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
Step 5: Serve
There are several ways you can serve this salad:
- On lettuce or greens: Serve it over a bed of lettuce or mixed greens for a light, low-carb meal.
- As a sandwich: Spread the salad between slices of your favorite bread for a hearty sandwich.
- With crackers: Spoon the salad onto crackers for a tasty snack or appetizer.
How to Boil Eggs Perfectly Every Time
Boiling eggs might seem straightforward, but getting them just right can be tricky. Here’s how to ensure perfect eggs every time:
- Use cold water: Start with cold water and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to a simmer.
- Simmer the eggs for 9-12 minutes: The exact time depends on how firm you like the yolk. Nine minutes will give you a slightly softer yolk, while 12 minutes ensures a fully set yolk.
- Transfer to ice water: After cooking, place the eggs in an ice bath for a few minutes to cool them quickly. This makes them easier to peel and stops the cooking process.
Tips for the Best Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad
- Use quality ingredients: Since this salad is so simple, the quality of your ingredients will really shine. Opt for high-quality canned tuna (preferably packed in olive oil) and fresh eggs.
- Adjust the creaminess: Depending on your personal preference, you can adjust the amount of mayonnaise to make the salad creamier or lighter. Greek yogurt is a great substitute for a healthier option.
- Chill before serving: For the best flavor, let the salad sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together.
Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad Variations
One of the great things about this recipe is how easy it is to modify. Here are a few variations you can try to mix things up:
Mediterranean Tuna and Egg Salad
- Add chopped Kalamata olives, cucumbers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired salad.
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice for an extra burst of flavor.
Spicy Tuna and Egg Salad
- Mix in a teaspoon of sriracha or hot sauce and some chopped jalapeños for a spicy twist on this classic.
- Top with some freshly chopped cilantro for added freshness.
Avocado Tuna and Egg Salad
- Replace half of the mayonnaise with mashed avocado to create a creamier, healthier version of this salad.
- Avocado adds healthy fats and a rich texture to the dish.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use tuna packed in water instead of oil?
Yes, you can use tuna packed in water if you prefer a lighter option. Just be sure to drain it thoroughly before mixing it into the salad.
How long will tuna and egg salad last in the fridge?
Tuna and egg salad can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just be sure to give it a good stir before serving, as the dressing may separate a bit over time.
Can I add vegetables to this salad?
Absolutely! Chopped cucumber, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes are great additions that add freshness and crunch to the salad.
Is this recipe keto-friendly?
Yes, this Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad is naturally low in carbs and high in protein, making it an excellent choice for those following a keto or low-carb diet.
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. In fact, it often tastes even better after sitting in the fridge for a few hours, as the flavors have more time to meld together.
Conclusion
Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad is a classic dish that’s both simple to make and packed with flavor. Whether you’re preparing it as a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a tasty snack, this salad is a nutritious and versatile option that can be customized in many ways. The combination of creamy eggs, savory tuna, and crisp veggies makes for a filling, delicious meal that you can enjoy any time of day. Try it as a sandwich filling, with crackers, or on a bed of lettuce—no matter how you serve it, you can’t go wrong with this classic recipe.
If you tried making this Tuna and Hard-Boiled Egg Salad, let us know how it turned out in the comments below! We’d love to hear about any variations or tips you have to share. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—they’ll thank you for it!