A creamy, crunchy, savory tuna salad loaded with sweet peas, sharp cheddar, red onion, and fresh herbs. It’s delicious served with crackers, toast, sandwiches, or lettuce cups.

Ingredients

For the Salad

2 cans (5 oz / 142 g each) tuna, drained well
1 cup (150 g) frozen peas, thawed
½ cup (60 g) cheddar cheese, cut into small cubes
¼ cup (40 g) red onion, finely diced
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
1–2 tbsp finely chopped celery, optional
2 tbsp sweet pickle relish, optional

Creamy Dressing

½ cup (120 g) mayonnaise
¼ cup (60 g) sour cream or plain Greek yogurt
1 tbsp lemon juice
1 tsp Dijon mustard
½ tsp garlic powder
¼ tsp onion powder
¼ tsp black pepper
¼ tsp salt, or to taste

For Serving

Crackers
Toast or crostini
Lettuce leaves
Cucumber slices
Optional extra cheddar and fresh herbs

How to Make It

1. Prepare the tuna

Drain the tuna very well.

Place it in a large mixing bowl and gently break it apart with a fork.

Tip: Removing excess liquid helps keep the salad creamy rather than watery.

2. Prepare the vegetables

If using frozen peas, thaw them completely and drain any excess water.

Finely dice the red onion and celery.

Cut the cheddar into small cubes.

3. Make the creamy dressing

In a separate bowl, combine:

Mayonnaise
Sour cream or Greek yogurt
Lemon juice
Dijon mustard
Garlic powder
Onion powder
Black pepper
Salt

Whisk until smooth and creamy.

4. Combine everything

Add the peas, cheddar, red onion, parsley, dill, and optional celery and relish to the tuna.

Pour the dressing over everything.

5. Mix gently

Fold the ingredients together with a spatula or spoon until everything is evenly coated.

Avoid stirring too aggressively so the peas and cheese cubes stay intact.

6. Chill

Cover the bowl and refrigerate for 30–60 minutes.

This allows the flavors to blend and makes the salad extra delicious.

7. Serve

Spoon the creamy tuna salad onto crackers, just like in the photo.

You can also serve it:

On toasted bread
In lettuce cups
With cucumber slices
In a sandwich
Over a simple green salad

Recipe Information

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Chill Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Servings: 4–6

Tips for the Best Tuna Salad

Drain the tuna thoroughly.
Use sharp cheddar for more flavor.
Let the salad chill before serving.
Add the dressing gradually if you prefer a thicker texture.
For extra crunch, add finely diced celery or cucumber.
Fresh lemon juice gives the creamy dressing a brighter flavor.

Easy Variations

Tuna Egg Salad

Add 2 finely chopped hard-boiled eggs.

Tuna & Corn Salad

Add ½ cup sweet corn along with the peas.

Fresh Crunch

Add diced cucumber or celery.

Spicy Tuna Salad

Add a small amount of hot sauce or crushed red pepper.

Extra Cheesy

Add a little mozzarella or Parmesan along with the cheddar.

Lemon Herb

Increase the lemon juice slightly and add extra parsley and dill.

Storage

Store the finished salad in a covered airtight container in the refrigerator.

Best enjoyed within 3–4 days.

Keep it refrigerated and don’t leave the tuna salad at room temperature for extended periods.

For the best texture, add crackers or toast just before serving rather than storing them with the salad.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh peas?

Yes. You can use fresh peas, but cook them briefly until tender and cool them completely before adding.

Can I use canned peas?

Yes, although frozen or fresh peas usually have a better texture. Drain canned peas very well.

Can I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise?

Yes. You can replace some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt for a tangier dressing.

What type of tuna is best?

Both chunk light and solid white/albacore tuna work. Choose whichever texture and flavor you prefer.

Why is my tuna salad watery?

The tuna or peas may not have been drained well enough. Drain both thoroughly before mixing.

Can I make it ahead?

Yes. Making it 30–60 minutes ahead gives the flavors time to develop.

Can I leave out the cheddar?

Absolutely. The salad will still be delicious without cheese.

What can I serve with it?

Crackers, toast, crostini, cucumber slices, lettuce leaves, or a simple vegetable salad all work well.

Can I add eggs?

Yes! Chopped hard-boiled eggs make the salad heartier and add another creamy texture.

Is this recipe suitable for sandwiches?

Yes. Spread it between slices of bread with lettuce and tomato for an easy tuna salad sandwich.

Quick Recipe Summary

Mix tuna + peas + cheddar + red onion → whisk creamy dressing → combine → chill 30–60 minutes → serve with crispy crackers!