Susies Tuna Salad
There’s something incredibly comforting about a well-made tuna salad. It’s a dish that evokes memories of family gatherings, picnics, and potlucks. Today, I am thrilled to share my version of Susies Tuna Salad, a delightful blend of flavors and textures that is sure to please everyone at your table. With a creamy dressing, a medley of crunchy vegetables, and a hint of zest, this salad is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch or a side dish for dinner, Susies Tuna Salad has got you covered!
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
– It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
– The combination of ingredients offers a delightful crunch and a burst of flavor.
– It can be enjoyed on its own or served atop a bed of lettuce or with crispy chow mein noodles.
– Leftovers can be easily stored and enjoyed the next day, making it a meal prep favorite.
Ingredients at a Glance
- 1 cup light sour cream
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 cup frozen peas, thawed
- 1 cup chopped celery
- 1 cup chopped green bell pepper
- 1 cup chopped green onions
- 1 cup sliced olives
- One 12-ounce can tuna packed in water, drained
- 1 can crispy chow mein noodles
- 4 cups chopped lettuce
- 1/2 cup slivered almonds, toasted
Equipment at a Glance
- Mixing bowl – for combining all your ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to ensure accurate measurements.
- Cutting board and knife – for chopping vegetables.
- Serving dish – to present your beautiful Susies Tuna Salad.
Susies Tuna Salad Made Stepwise
Step 1: Prepare the Dressing
In a mixing bowl, combine the 1 cup of light sour cream with the 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well until you have a smooth dressing. This creamy base is what makes Susies Tuna Salad truly special.
Step 2: Mix in the Vegetables
Add in the 1 cup of thawed frozen peas, 1 cup of chopped celery, 1 cup of chopped green bell pepper, 1 cup of chopped green onions, and 1 cup of sliced olives to the bowl. Gently fold these ingredients into the sour cream mixture until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Incorporate the Tuna
Now it’s time to add the star of the show! Gently flake the drained tuna into the bowl and fold it into the mixture. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep some texture in your salad.
Step 4: Add Crunch with Chow Mein Noodles
Stir in the can of crispy chow mein noodles, which will add a delightful crunch to your Susies Tuna Salad. This is what sets it apart from traditional recipes!
Step 5: Serve on a Bed of Lettuce
Take your 4 cups of chopped lettuce and arrange it on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the tuna salad mixture generously over the lettuce, creating a colorful and appetizing presentation.
Step 6: Garnish with Toasted Almonds
To finish, sprinkle 1/2 cup of toasted slivered almonds on top of the salad for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Fit It to Your Goals
- For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for light sour cream.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the tuna and adding more beans or chickpeas.
- To increase the protein content, add boiled eggs or additional nuts.
- Serve with whole grain crackers for a satisfying crunch.
Pitfalls & How to Prevent Them
- Overmixing the tuna can result in a mushy salad. Gently fold ingredients together for the best texture.
- Using frozen peas directly from the freezer can make them tough. Always thaw them first for a better bite.
- For a richer flavor, make sure to use a reputable brand of tuna.
- Check the expiration dates on canned ingredients to ensure freshness.
Storage Pro Tips
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Susies Tuna Salad will stay fresh for up to three days. If you plan to make it ahead of time, consider storing the chow mein noodles separately to maintain their crunch.
Ask & Learn
Can I use a different type of dressing?
Absolutely! You can experiment with other dressings like a light vinaigrette or even a homemade Chipotle Aioli for a spicy twist.
Is there a substitute for the tuna?
Yes, you can replace tuna with shredded chicken or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
Can I make it ahead of time?
Yes, Susies Tuna Salad can be made a day in advance. Just be sure to keep the crispy noodles separate until serving time.
What other ingredients can I add?
Feel free to customize with additional ingredients such as diced pickles, sweet corn, or even diced apples for a hint of sweetness.
Ready to Cook?
Are you excited to make Susies Tuna Salad for your family and friends? This dish is sure to impress with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and enjoy a delightful meal that brings everyone together around the table. Happy cooking!
Susies Tuna Salad
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a mixing bowl, combine the light sour cream with the freshly squeezed lemon juice. Stir well until you have a smooth dressing.
- Add in the thawed frozen peas, chopped celery, chopped green bell pepper, chopped green onions, and sliced olives to the bowl. Gently fold these ingredients into the sour cream mixture until everything is evenly coated.
- Gently flake the drained tuna into the bowl and fold it into the mixture. Be careful not to over-mix; you want to keep some texture in your salad.
- Stir in the can of crispy chow mein noodles, which will add a delightful crunch to your Susies Tuna Salad.
- Take your chopped lettuce and arrange it on a serving platter or individual plates. Spoon the tuna salad mixture generously over the lettuce.
- Sprinkle toasted slivered almonds on top of the salad for an extra layer of flavor and crunch.
Notes
- For a lighter option, substitute Greek yogurt for light sour cream.
- Make it vegetarian by omitting the tuna and adding more beans or chickpeas.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days.
