This curry tuna salad recipe is a flavorful twist on the classic tuna salad, infused with warm curry spices, crunchy vegetables, and a creamy dressing. It’s a high-protein, low-carb dish that can be served in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or even as a dip. With a perfect balance of savory, sweet, and spicy flavors, this easy recipe is great for meal prep and quick lunches.
Table of Contents
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Ingredients You’ll Need
- Step-by-Step Instructions
- Ways to Serve Curry Tuna Salad
- Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Variations and Substitutions
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Bold and Unique Flavors
The addition of curry powder, honey, and crunchy vegetables creates a rich and aromatic dish.
Quick and Easy
With simple ingredients and just 10 minutes of prep, this is a perfect last-minute meal. 
High-Protein and Healthy
Made with lean tuna, Greek yogurt or mayo, it’s a filling and nutritious option.
Versatile Serving Options
Enjoy it in sandwiches, wraps, on crackers, or over greens for a variety of meal ideas.
Ingredients You’ll Need For Curry Tuna Salad
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- ¼ cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter version)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 ½ teaspoons curry powder
- 1 teaspoon honey (or maple syrup)
- ½ teaspoon lemon juice
- ¼ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ¼ cup celery, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup shredded carrots
- 2 tablespoons golden raisins (optional, for sweetness)
- 1 tablespoon chopped almonds or cashews (optional, for crunch)
Step-by-Step Instructions For Curry Tuna Salad Recipe
Prepare the Tuna
- Drain the canned tuna and transfer it to a mixing bowl.
- Use a fork to flake the tuna into smaller pieces for a smoother texture.
Make the Curry Dressing
- In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, curry powder, honey, lemon juice, salt, and black pepper.
- Stir until the dressing is smooth and well combined.
Mix Everything Together
- Add the celery, red onion, shredded carrots, raisins, and chopped almonds/cashews to the bowl with the tuna.
- Pour the curry dressing over the tuna mixture and stir well to coat everything evenly.
Chill and Serve
- Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Serve chilled in sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or with crackers.
Ways to Serve Curry Tuna Salad
As a Sandwich
Spoon the tuna salad onto toasted bread or a croissant for a flavorful sandwich.
Curry Tuna Salad In a Wrap
Wrap the tuna salad in a whole wheat tortilla or naan bread for a hearty meal.
Lettuce Cups
For a low-carb option, serve in romaine or butter lettuce leaves.
Over a Salad
Spoon the tuna salad over a bed of mixed greens for a protein-packed salad bowl.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Make-Ahead: Prepare the salad in advance and stir before serving to redistribute any dressing.
- Avoid Freezing: The mayonnaise or yogurt in the dressing does not freeze well, so it’s best enjoyed fresh.
Variations and Substitutions Of This Curry Tuna Salad Recipe
Make It Healthier
- Use Greek Yogurt Instead of Mayo: Replace ¼ cup mayonnaise with ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt for a lighter option.
- Reduce Sodium: Choose low-sodium canned tuna to decrease salt intake.
- Increase Fiber: Add ½ cup chickpeas for extra fiber and texture.
Add More Crunch
- Chopped Pickles: Swap ¼ cup celery for ¼ cup finely chopped dill pickles for extra tang.
- Chopped Nuts: Add ¼ cup chopped almonds, cashews, or walnuts for a nutty crunch.
- Sliced Water Chestnuts: Stir in ¼ cup finely chopped water chestnuts for a crisp texture.
Make It Spicier
- Extra Curry Powder: Increase curry powder to 2 teaspoons for a bolder flavor.
- Cayenne Pepper: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper for a little heat.
- Chopped Jalapeños: Dice ½ small jalapeño and mix it in for an extra kick.
Dairy-Free Option
- Use Dairy-Free Mayo: Replace ¼ cup regular mayo with ¼ cup avocado oil-based or soy-based mayo.
- Skip Greek Yogurt: If using Greek yogurt, swap it for mashed avocado instead.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes! Cook and flake 6 oz of fresh tuna before using it in this recipe.
What can I use instead of raisins?
You can replace golden raisins with dried cranberries or chopped dates for a similar sweet balance.
How can I make this recipe keto-friendly?
Simply skip the honey and replace raisins with chopped nuts to lower the carbs.
Is curry tuna salad gluten-free?
Yes! Just be sure to use a gluten-free mustard and mayo
This curry tuna salad recipe is a bold, delicious twist on traditional tuna salad. With warm curry spices, crunchy veggies, and a creamy dressing, it’s perfect for quick lunches, meal prep, or healthy snacks. Whether you enjoy it on a sandwich, in a wrap, or straight from the bowl, this easy recipe is sure to become a favorite.
