Mediterranean Tuna Salad

Name: Mediterranean Tuna Salad
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cans of tuna in olive oil, drained; 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/2 cucumber, diced; 1/4 red onion, finely chopped; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced; 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar; 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard; Salt and pepper to taste

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I absolutely love making Mediterranean Tuna Salad for its vibrant flavors and refreshing ingredients. Every bite offers a delightful crunch from the veggies paired with the rich taste of tuna, all enhanced by the tangy dressing. It’s a fantastic dish that I can enjoy any time of year, whether as a light lunch or a hearty dinner side. Plus, the best part is how quickly I can whip it up. In under 20 minutes, I can have a fulfilling meal in front of me that makes me feel great about eating healthy.

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-24T13:43:35.194Z

When I first tried making Mediterranean Tuna Salad, I was amazed at how easily the flavors meld together. The combination of fresh vegetables, olives, and the perfect dressing creates a salad that's not just healthy but tantalizingly delicious. Each element brings its unique taste, and the quality of the tuna really shines through, making it the star of the dish.

My secret tip is to let the salad sit for a few minutes before serving. This little wait allows the ingredients to absorb the dressing fully, enhancing the flavors. It’s a small step that makes a significant difference, transforming a simple salad into something extraordinary.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Fresh ingredients that burst with flavor
Nutritious and satisfying, perfect for any meal
Quick and easy to prepare, ready in minutes

      

Ingredient Spotlight: Tuna and Olives

The star of this Mediterranean Tuna Salad is undoubtedly the tuna. I prefer using tuna packed in olive oil as it adds richness and depth to the salad. The oil enhances the overall flavor profile, bringing out the natural taste of the fish. Keep in mind that the quality of tuna matters. Opt for a high-quality brand for the best flavor and texture that won't break apart as quickly when mixed into the salad.

Kalamata olives not only add a briny punch but also contribute healthy fats and antioxidants. Their unique flavor complements the richness of the tuna beautifully. If you don't have Kalamata olives on hand, green olives or capers can serve as a delicious substitute. Just be mindful that the taste will vary slightly, so adjust the balance of other flavors accordingly.

Chilling for Flavor Enhancement

While the Mediterranean Tuna Salad can be enjoyed immediately after preparation, letting it chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes can amplify the flavors significantly. The cooling time allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a more cohesive taste experience. If you're in a rush, even a 10-minute rest can make a noticeable difference, so I recommend planning ahead when possible.

Serve this salad cold or at room temperature—both are delicious. If you’ve chilled it, give it a gentle toss before serving to redistribute the dressing. The contrast of the crisp vegetables against the creamy feta is what makes every bite refreshing, so be sure to keep the texture intact during the mixing process.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make a delicious Mediterranean Tuna Salad.

Salad Ingredients

2 cans of tuna in olive oil, drained
1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
1/2 cucumber, diced
1/4 red onion, finely chopped
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped

Dressing Ingredients

3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
Salt and pepper to taste

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor in your salad.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean Tuna Salad.

Prepare the Salad

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and parsley. Toss gently to combine.

Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, red wine vinegar, Dijon mustard, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad and toss gently until everything is combined. Serve immediately or let it chill in the fridge for a bit to deepen the flavors.

Enjoy your Mediterranean Tuna Salad! It pairs well with crusty bread or can be served on a bed of greens.

Pro Tips

Feel free to customize this salad by adding other ingredients like bell peppers or artichokes for added flavor and texture.

Storage Tips for Freshness

If you have leftovers, store your Mediterranean Tuna Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to two days, but be cautious: the longer it sits, the softer the vegetables become. To maintain some crunch, I suggest storing the dressing separately and adding it just before serving.

If you're meal prepping for the week, consider preparing the tuna and chopping the vegetables in advance, storing them separately in the fridge. On the day you plan to enjoy the salad, simply combine everything and dress it. This way, you can enjoy the freshness of the veggies while also having a quick meal ready to go.

Serving Suggestions and Pairings

This Mediterranean Tuna Salad makes an excellent light lunch on its own. However, if you want to turn it into a full meal, serve it alongside some whole grain pita bread or a side of quinoa. The nutty flavors of these grains complement the salad intricately and keep the meal balanced and filling.

For a touch of wow factor at a gathering, consider serving the salad in cucumber boats or on a bed of mixed greens. These presentation ideas are visually appealing and can enhance the overall dining experience. Plus, they add another layer of freshness that pairs perfectly with the rich tuna and tangy dressing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, fresh tuna can be grilled or seared before adding it to the salad for a different flavor.

→ How long does the salad last in the fridge?

The salad can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it's best enjoyed fresh.

→ What can I serve with this salad?

This salad pairs well with pita bread, quinoa, or a light soup.

→ Is this salad gluten-free?

Yes, all the ingredients used are gluten-free, making it a great option for those with gluten sensitivities.