Description
This Tasty Tuna Salad Delight is a fresh and vibrant no-cook salad featuring albacore tuna combined with crisp cucumbers, ripe tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and a flavorful vinaigrette. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, it can easily be adapted for vegetarians by substituting chickpeas for tuna. Bright herbs, garlic, and feta cheese add a Mediterranean flair to this quick and healthy dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Protein Base
- 2 cans Albacore Tuna (or chickpeas for a vegetarian option)
Vegetables
- 1 English Cucumber, sliced
- 1 Red Onion, sliced
- 2 Vine Ripe Tomatoes, chopped
- 1 cup Marinated Artichoke Hearts, chopped
Additional Flavorings
- ½ cup Green Olives, chopped (or use capers)
- ½ cup Kalamata Olives, chopped (or skip if you prefer)
- ¼ cup Fresh Parsley, chopped
- 2 Garlic Cloves, grated
- 1 tsp Dried Italian Seasoning
Dressing and Toppings
- ½ cup Crumbled Feta (or vegan feta)
- ¼ cup Olive Oil
- 2 tbsp Red or White Wine Vinegar (or lemon juice)
- Salt and Pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the protein base: Drain the tuna thoroughly to remove excess liquid. If opting for the vegetarian option, rinse chickpeas well and mash them slightly to create a chunky texture similar to tuna.
- Prep the vegetables: Slice the English cucumber and red onion thinly. Chop the vine ripe tomatoes into bite-sized pieces. Grate the garlic cloves finely to incorporate maximum flavor.
- Combine ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, add the drained tuna or mashed chickpeas followed by all the prepared vegetables. This ensures even distribution and a variety of textures in every bite.
- Add flavor enhancers: Stir in the chopped marinated artichoke hearts, green olives, Kalamata olives (if using), fresh parsley, grated garlic, and dried Italian seasoning to give the salad a robust Mediterranean profile.
- Mix thoroughly: Gently toss the mixture with a spoon or spatula until all ingredients are well combined without mashing or breaking the pieces excessively.
- Dress the salad: Drizzle olive oil and red or white wine vinegar (or lemon juice) over the mixture. Stir gently to coat all ingredients evenly, bringing the flavors together harmoniously.
- Season to taste: Add salt and freshly ground black pepper in small increments, tasting as you go, to balance the salad perfectly. Adjust seasoning as needed before serving.
Notes
- This salad is best served chilled or at room temperature for optimal flavor.
- Substitute chickpeas for tuna to make a satisfying vegetarian version.
- Use vegan feta cheese to keep it dairy-free while maintaining creamy texture.
- Adding capers can enhance the briny flavor if you prefer over green olives.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
