Dinner

Viral Tuna Salad Recipe

Name: Viral Tuna Salad Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: ½ cup mayonnaise (plus more as desired); 2 teaspoons white wine vinegar; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 teaspoons wasabi paste; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning; 3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion; 3 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles; ⅓ cup crispy jalapeño chips (crushed); ⅓ cup finely chopped apple; ½ cup canned corn kernels (drained); ½ cup frozen peas (thawed); 10 ounces tuna packed in olive oil (drained); Sea salt and pepper (to taste)

Byreem everly February 25, 2026February 25, 2026

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Introduction

This Viral Tuna Salad is a fresh and flavorful twist on a classic favorite. Combining a zesty wasabi dressing with crunchy jalapeño chips and sweet apples, it’s a perfect quick meal or snack that’s ready in just 15 minutes.

A white bowl filled with a colorful mix of shredded light pink tuna, bright yellow corn kernels, green peas, small diced white potatoes, tiny red and green bell pepper pieces, and finely chopped purple onions, all mixed with crushed yellow tortilla chips scattered throughout. On the side of the bowl, three whole yellow tortilla chips rest against the mix, adding texture. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a beige cloth napkin and silver fork and spoon nearby. The overall look is fresh and vibrant, with a blend of soft, creamy, and crunchy textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

½ cup mayonnaise (plus more as desired)
2 teaspoons white wine vinegar
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 teaspoons wasabi paste
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning
3 tablespoons finely chopped red onion
3 tablespoons finely chopped dill pickles
⅓ cup crispy jalapeño chips (crushed)
⅓ cup finely chopped apple
½ cup canned corn kernels (drained)
½ cup frozen peas (thawed)
10 ounces tuna packed in olive oil (drained)
Sea salt and pepper (to taste)

Instructions

Step 1: In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, lemon juice, wasabi paste, and Italian seasoning until smooth to create the dressing.
Step 2: Add the finely chopped red onion, dill pickles, crushed jalapeño chips, chopped apple, corn kernels, and thawed peas to the dressing. Stir until well combined.
Step 3: Gently fold in the drained tuna, mixing just enough to combine without breaking up the tuna too much.
Step 4: Taste the salad and season with sea salt and pepper as needed.
Step 5: Serve immediately with extra pickles or tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.

Tips & Variations

For a creamier texture, add a little extra mayonnaise or a dollop of Greek yogurt.
Substitute jalapeño chips with crushed tortilla chips or crushed pita chips for a different crunch.
Use fresh corn kernels if in season for a sweeter bite.
Swap out wasabi paste with horseradish or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer a milder spice.

Storage

Store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Stir well before serving again. Because of the fresh ingredients and mayonnaise, this salad is best enjoyed fresh and doesn’t freeze well.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with a mixed dish containing at least four visible layers: at the bottom, smashed yellow corn chips creating a crunchy textured base; the second layer is a mash of small tender light pink tuna chunks spread evenly; scattered throughout are bright green peas and yellow corn kernels adding pops of color; finely chopped pieces of red onion, pickles, and red pepper provide small dots of red, purple, and green hues; the whole dish has a creamy off-white sauce lightly coating the ingredients, and some black pepper is sprinkled on top. A few yellow corn chips are placed on the right side of the bowl and near the bowl on a white marbled surface. Two silver utensils sit off to the top right side. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use tuna packed in water instead of olive oil?

Yes, tuna packed in water can be used. The salad may be slightly less rich, so you might want to add a little extra mayonnaise or olive oil for moisture and flavor.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep?

It can be prepared ahead and stored for up to 2 days, but the jalapeño chips might lose their crunch. For best texture, add chips just before serving.