Fiesta Tuna Salad – Match Foodie Finds

July 1, 2024

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Tuna salad has never looked so fresh! This colorful, healthy fiesta tuna salad has a Mexican twist, using black beans, cherry tomatoes, corn, and cilantro. We love eating it with chips, but there are so many different ways you can serve it.

This fiesta tuna salad is packed with protein, veggies, and healthy fats. It’s soooo perfect for meal prep, too! We’re big fans of cold salads , specifically ones that are protein-packed and can be put together in less than 10 minutes! Our avocado tuna salad, for example, is another one that’s thrown together in under 10, and the same with our classic healthy tuna salad recipe.

Both recipes use the same featured ingredient — canned tuna –– an excellent healthy and quick lean protein option. A 5 oz. can of tuna (in water) has more than 20g protein, 0g carbs, and 1g fat. Hells to the yes!

What You Need for this Fiesta Tuna Salad

Classic tuna salad is made with canned tuna, mayo, and citrus. For this recipe, we wanted to jazz things up with a Mexican-inspired twist and create a light tuna salad without mayo. That’s why we made a yummy vinaigrette and used fresh cilantro instead. Here’s what you need for our fiesta tuna salad:

White Albacore tuna: You can use any kind of canned tuna, but we prefer white Albacore tuna in water. It tastes the freshest and has the best texture!
Black beans: These aren’t just filler! Black beans add a dose of protein and fiber and a cool, creamy texture that perfectly complements the tuna.
Sweet corn: A burst of sweetness and summery vibes, providing that classic Mexican-inspired feel.
Cherry tomatoes: Adds a pop of sweetness and red color!
Red onion: A bit of bite to balance the sweetness. Red onion adds a sharp, slightly sweet flavor that cuts through the richness of the tuna and the sweetness of the other ingredients.
Fresh cilantro: Cilantro adds a bright, citrusy flavor essential to Mexican cuisine.
Limey vinaigrette: The tangy dressing that brings it all together!

Mexican-Inspired Tuna Salad Swaps

Tuna Swap: Not a huge fan of albacore? No problem! Flaked canned salmon or even shredded cooked chicken would work great here.
Bean It Up: Black beans are the classic choice, but pinto or kidney beans would add a different flavor profile.
Fresh Veggies: Chopped bell peppers, diced avocado, or even a handful of fresh spinach would be delicious additions.
Spice it Up: Jalapeno peppers (seeded and minced!) or a pinch of cayenne pepper will give your salad a kick.
Go Green: Try chopped green chiles or black olives instead of corn for a briny twist.
No Cilantro? No sweat! Chopped fresh parsley or even dill would add a nice pop of flavor.

How to Serve Fiesta Tuna Salad

Salad: The classic option – pile your Fiesta Tuna Salad onto a bed of crisp romaine lettuce or baby spinach leaves for a filling salad.
Wraps: Spread the salad onto whole wheat tortillas and roll it up for a satisfying and portable lunch or afternoon snack. For a lighter option, you can make lettuce wraps and stuff the tuna salad inside!
Sandwiches: Spread it on toasted whole wheat bread, sourdough, or even buttery croissants for a protein-packed and flavorful lunch.
Bowls: Serve your Fiesta Tuna Salad over a bed of brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a healthy and filling bowl.
Crackers: Serve your Fiesta Tuna Salad on a platter with assorted crackers or sliced baguette. It’s an easy appetizer guaranteed to disappear fast.
Toast: Serve this delicious tuna salad on a piece of toast for a light meal.

Fiesta Tuna Salad FAQ

How many days is tuna salad good in the refrigerator?

This fiesta tuna salad will last you around 3 days in the refrigerator. Just make sure to seal it in an airtight container such as THESE ones.

Is tuna salad bad for you?

Tuna salad is NOT bad for you! If you make our tuna salad without mayo, it’s packed with protein and lower in carbohydrates and calories.

How do you store tuna salad?

We suggest storing your fiesta tuna salad in a glass meal prep container in the refrigerator. We love this bento box version and this single meal prep container the best!