What Dressing Goes With Tuna Salad? 12 BEST Choices!
Looking for ideas for what dressing goes with tuna salad?
You’re in the right place!
The right dressing can transform a salad from run of the mill to a real taste sensation, and many of the best choices can be prepared in a matter of minutes using ingredients that you already have in your pantry.
What are the best dressings for tuna salad?
The tastiest dressings that pair perfectly with a tuna salad include basic options like mayonnaise, lemon juice, and olive oil.
If you prefer something creamy, choose from ranch, Caesar, and thousand island.
Vinegars such as balsamic, red wine, and apple cider all work beautifully, or if you fancy trying something a little fancier, you can go for wasabi, soy ginger, or honey mustard.
Keep reading to find out more, plus get the best quick and easy recipes for preparing these dressings at home…
Basic Dressings for Tuna Salad
If you need something quick and simple, there are a few basic options that are always a safe bet. Here are three basic dressings to consider:
Mayonnaise
Mayonnaise is the classic choice for tuna salad. Its creamy texture and tangy flavour pair perfectly with the mild taste of tuna. You can use store-bought mayo or make your own at home.
Though making your own does of course require a little extra effort, it’s mostly just a case of whisking, and you’ll definitely notice a big difference compared to shop-bought versions. It’ll keep in the fridge for a couple of days, so you can enjoy the leftovers on sandwiches.
Lemon Juice
If you’re looking for a lighter and fresher option, lemon juice is a great choice. Its acidic taste adds a bright, zesty kick to your salad, and it can also help all the other flavours in your bowl to really shine. Simply squeeze some fresh lemon juice over your tuna salad and toss to combine.
Olive Oil
Olive oil is another simple and super healthy option for dressing a tuna salad. Its smooth, fruity flavour pairs well and adds a touch of richness to your salad. You can also add other ingredients to your olive oil dressing, such as garlic, herbs, or vinegar, to give it more flavour. Go for a high quality extra virgin variety for the best results!
Creamy Dressings for Tuna Salad
When it comes to tuna salad, creamy dressings are a popular choice.
They add a touch of indulgence, and ensure that you don’t feel like you’re missing out at lunchtime! Here are some of the best creamy dressings for tuna salad:
Ranch Dressing
Ranch is a classic American dressing made with buttermilk, garlic, salt, mustard, herbs, and spices, and the taste profile is fresh and slightly sour, with a satisfying tang.
It’s readily available in a bottle at the supermarket, or you can try this homemade ranch recipe that takes just a few minutes to pull together. Make a little extra so you enjoy it with some veggie crudités as an afternoon snack!
Caesar Dressing
Caesar is another great option for what dressing goes with tuna salad. It’s garlicky, cheesy, indulgent, and it’s perfect if you’re serving up a lunch for adults with a slightly more refined palate.
The inclusion of anchovy in the ingredients brings a depth of flavour and a satisfying kick of umami, so if you’re making your own, be sure that you don’t miss this step out. It’s the secret to the very best Caesar!
Thousand Island Dressing
Thousand island dressing is a sweet and tangy choice for tuna salad. It’s made with mayo, ketchup, and pickle relish, and you’ll definitely want to make some extra to enjoy with other meals.
Interestingly, it makes for an amazing burger sauce, and is often considered to be the secret ingredient in McDonalds’ Big Macs! Slather it on meaty sandwiches, and you’ll be a convert.
When using creamy dressings, be mindful that they can be high in calories and fat. If you’re aiming for a healthy meal, keep an eye portion sizes and consider making your own at home so you can be sure of exactly what’s included.
Vinaigrette Dressings
Vinaigrette dressings are a popular choice for tuna salad. These dressings are typically made with oil and vinegar, and they come in a variety of flavours. Here are some of the most commonly used vinaigrette dressings that go well with tuna salad:
Balsamic Vinegar
Balsamic vinegar is a dark, syrupy vinegar that is made from grapes. It has a sweet and tangy flavour that pairs well with tuna salad. Balsamic vinaigrette is a popular choice for tuna salad, and it’s easy to make at home. Simply mix balsamic vinegar with olive oil, dijon mustard, and honey for a delicious dressing.
Red Wine Vinegar
Red wine vinegar is a tangy vinegar that is made from red wine. It has a bold flavour that pairs well with tuna salad. To make red wine vinaigrette, mix red wine vinegar with olive oil, dijon mustard, garlic, and herbs like oregano and thyme.
Apple Cider Vinegar
Apple cider vinegar is a vinegar that is made from fermented apples. It has a slightly sweet and tangy flavour that pairs well with tuna salad. To make apple cider vinaigrette, mix apple cider vinegar with olive oil, dijon mustard, honey, and herbs like basil and parsley.
When using vinaigrette dressings with tuna salad, it’s important to keep the dressing simple. Too many flavours can overpower the tuna. Stick to a few simple ingredients and let the tuna shine.
(Interested in discovering some more creative ways to enjoy tinned fish? Check out how to eat tuna without bread!)
Specialty Dressings
Wasabi Dressing
For those who love a bit of spice, wasabi dressing is a perfect match for tuna salad. Made with wasabi paste, rice vinegar, and soy sauce, this dressing has a kick that will take your tuna salad to the next level. Try mixing it with some mayonnaise for a creamier texture.
Soy Ginger Dressing
Soy ginger dressing is a classic Asian-inspired dressing that pairs well with tuna salad. Made with soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and garlic, this dressing adds a tangy and slightly sweet flavour to your tuna salad. Try adding some sesame oil and honey for a more complex flavour.
Honey Mustard Dressing
If you’re looking for a dressing that’s both sweet and tangy, honey mustard dressing is a great choice. Made with honey, Dijon mustard, and apple cider vinegar, this dressing is perfect for those who want a bit of sweetness in their tuna salad. Try adding some chopped fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for an extra burst of flavour.
Specialty dressings can add a unique twist to your tuna salad. Whether you prefer a spicy kick, a tangy flavour, or a sweet and savoury combination, there’s a dressing out there that will suit your taste buds. Try experimenting with different dressings to find your perfect match!
