Make Ahead

Dave's Desert Tuna Salad

by:
October  4, 2022
4
4 Ratings
  • Prep time 30 minutes
  • Serves 4
Author Notes

Our friend Dave served us a great tuna salad that captures the flavors of Southern California. I had to add a Meyer lemon to the mix, because we had a Meyer lemon tree in the backyard of the desert house where we were lucky enough to be spending a little time. Dave's wife Dot likes a little mustard in her version, so that ingredient is added as well. This version of a classic is light, easy on the mayo, and loves a few cashews served on the side if you want just a touch of salt and crunch. It is very refreshing and bright and does not weigh you down in the afternoon desert sun! If you prefer canned tuna packed in oil, pick a good one. I like Ortiz Bonito del Norte packed in oil. —Bevi

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Ingredients
  • 12 ounces can Albacore tuna
  • 5 stalks celery, medium chopped
  • 1 poblano chile, chopped in 1/4" dice
  • 1/2 medium cucumber, peeled, deseeded, and medium chopped
  • 5 scallions, medium chopped
  • Handful cilantro, medium chopped
  • 1 tablespoon capers
  • 1 tablespoon mayonaise, scant to heaping, depending on your preference, plus more for spreading toasted bread
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon or country Dijon mustard
  • juice of one half of a Meyer lemon (use a regular lemon if necessary)
  • salt and pepper to season
  • pita bread pockets, lavash, or other bread, lightly toasted and spread with a little mayo
Directions
  1. Drain the tuna and place in serving bowl. Break up the chunks. Add the chopped celery, poblano chile, cucumber, scallions, and cilantro. Then add the capers. Stir the solid ingredients until blended.
  2. Add the mayonaise, mustard, lemon juice, and salt and pepper. Blend with a fork. Adjust seasonings as necessary. Spread on one side of two pieces of your choice of bread product that has a touch of mayo, not a slather. Serve with a few salted cashews on the side.

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Recipe by: Bevi

Cooking is an important part of my past. I grew up and worked on our family resort. These days, I cook good food to please my friends and family.

4 Reviews

gingerroot January 26, 2012
I'm picky about my tuna salad, but this sounds delicious. Love the poblano in there. Can't wait to try this

Bevi January 26, 2012
I hope you like it! The poblano adds crunch and kick!
boulangere January 19, 2012
Love the flavors and textures here!
Bevi January 19, 2012
Thank you boulangere!