Mary KellyWhen it comes to enjoying Jimmy John’s Tuna Salad, there are numerous delightful sides that can perfectly complement the creamy dish. Crunchy veggie sticks—such as carrot, cucumber, and bell pepper—offer a refreshing contrast with their crisp texture.
Toasted bread or crackers provide a satisfying crunch and added texture; you can serve the tuna salad on whole grain bread or in lettuce wraps for a lighter option. A simple green salad with mixed greens and a light vinaigrette helps cut through the richness of the tuna, and adding cherry tomatoes and avocado enhances the flavor profile.
For a bit of indulgence, crunchy potato chips or pita chips add a delightful crunch and saltiness that pairs well with the creamy tuna salad. Now that you’re set with some tasty pairings, let’s dive into the heart of the matter: the tuna salad recipe from Jimmy John’s.
Have you ever had a moment where a simple dish, like tuna salad, brings back memories of summer picnics and family gatherings? That nostalgic flavor can be made right at home with Jimmy John’s tuna salad recipe.
As a registered dietitian and avid food blogger, I’ve spent countless hours experimenting with recipes that are both nutritious and satisfying. Tuna salad is a classic that can be whipped up quickly. It’s a crowd-pleaser, too—perfect for serve-yourself gatherings or an easy lunch.
So what’s in store? We’ll explore not only how to make this delightful dish but also why it works so well. Let’s fish for the details!
What is Jimmy John’s Tuna Salad?
Jimmy John’s tuna salad features light ingredients that create a flavor explosion while keeping things healthy. The core of the recipe includes canned solid white albacore tuna, mayonnaise, soy sauce, Dijon mustard, celery, red onion, and a touch of lemon juice. The blend strikes that lovely balance between creamy and tangy, making it an excellent choice for any meal of the day.
Why This Recipe Works?
Versatility: This tuna salad recipe can be used in multiple ways. Enjoy it on a sandwich, scoop it onto a salad, or munch it with crackers. There’s a method for every mood.
Nutritional Benefits: Tuna is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids. Adding celery provides fiber, and using light mayonnaise keeps the calorie count in check.
Quick to Prepare: This dish comes together in just about 10 minutes. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute lunch idea.
Flavor-Packed Ingredients: From the umami of soy sauce to the sharpness of Dijon mustard, each ingredient builds on the others, creating a tuna salad that is anything but boring.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Jimmy John’s Tuna Salad
Before we swim on to the cooking instructions, let’s outline the ingredients:
- 1/2 cup light mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 6 (5-ounce) cans of solid white albacore tuna, well-drained
- 2-3 stalks of celery, finely diced
- 1/2 small red onion, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
How To Make This Tuna Salad?
Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to creating a delightful tuna salad in no time.
Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients
Make sure you’ve got all your ingredients at hand. It’s always helpful to prep them in advance.
Step 2: Drain the Tuna
Open the cans of tuna and drain them thoroughly. This is crucial because excess moisture will lead to a soupy salad.
Step 3: Mix the Dressing
In a medium bowl, combine the light mayonnaise, low-sodium soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.
Step 4: Combine Tuna and Veggies
In a larger bowl, mix the drained tuna, diced celery, and minced red onion. Gently fold in the dressing. You want everything to be well-coated without breaking up the tuna too much.
Step 5: Chill Out
Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 6: Serve
Once the tuna salad has chilled, stir it again briefly and serve it cold. Enjoy it on a sandwich, with crackers, or even on a bed of greens.
Tips
- Use Quality Tuna: The flavor of your tuna salad depends on the quality of the tuna. Opt for solid white albacore for the best taste and texture.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding chopped pickles, capers, or boiled eggs for an extra boost of flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your salad before serving. If you like a tangier flavor, squeeze a bit more lemon juice in there.
- Chill for Flavor: The longer you allow the salad to chill, the better the flavors meld.
- Make Ahead: This salad lasts well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Nutrition Information
How to Store the Leftovers?
To store leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container. Make sure to refrigerate it promptly. The tuna salad stays fresh for about 3 days in the fridge. If you notice any off smell or changes in color, it’s best to discard it.
Recommended Side Dishes for Jimmy John’s Tuna Salad
Fresh Garden Salad: Toss together some mixed greens, tomatoes, and cucumbers with a light vinaigrette.
Potato Chips: A classic pairing. Their crunch adds an enjoyable contrast to the creamy tuna salad.
Fruit Salad: A side of diced watermelon, cantaloupe, and berries can serve as a refreshing and sweet complement.
Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant grilled with olive oil and seasoning create a savory side.
Substitute Options for the Ingredients
If you’re missing an ingredient, don’t sweat it. Here are some suggestions.
Mayonnaise: Swap it for Greek yogurt for a healthier twist. This gives you a similar creaminess with added protein.
Soy Sauce: Tamari is an excellent gluten-free alternative. Coconut aminos can be used for a slightly sweeter option.
Tuna: If you can’t find albacore, skipjack tuna works in a pinch, though the texture might be slightly different.
Celery: Try chopped bell peppers or cucumbers if you’re not a fan of celery crunch.
Jimmy John’s Tuna Salad Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Make sure you’ve got all your ingredients at hand. It’s always helpful to prep them in advance.
- Open the cans of tuna and drain them thoroughly. This is crucial because excess moisture will lead to a soupy salad.
- In a medium bowl, combine the light mayonnaise, low-sodium soy sauce, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Whisk these ingredients together until smooth.
- In a larger bowl, mix the drained tuna, diced celery, and minced red onion. Gently fold in the dressing. You want everything to be well-coated without breaking up the tuna too much.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Once the tuna salad has chilled, stir it again briefly and serve it cold. Enjoy it on a sandwich, with crackers, or even on a bed of greens.
Nutrition
Notes
- Use Quality Tuna: The flavor of your tuna salad depends on the quality of the tuna. Opt for solid white albacore for the best taste and texture.
- Experiment with Add-Ins: Try adding chopped pickles, capers, or boiled eggs for an extra boost of flavor and texture.
- Adjust Seasoning: Taste your salad before serving. If you like a tangier flavor, squeeze a bit more lemon juice in there.
- Chill for Flavor: The longer you allow the salad to chill, the better the flavors meld.
- Make Ahead: This salad lasts well in the fridge for 2-3 days, making it perfect for meal prep.
Tried this recipe?
Let us know how it was!Frequently Asked Questions
Conclusion
There you have it! Making your own version of Jimmy John’s tuna salad is easy and adaptable. This dish is not just for lunch; it shines at picnics, parties, and casual dinners alike. With nutrient-rich tuna and crunchy vegetables, it’s a delightful blend of flavors and textures. Plus, it comes together quickly.
Now, the ball’s in your court—grab those ingredients, whip up this salad, and dive into a plateful of deliciousness. Trust me, once you have a taste, you’ll be hooked! Happy cooking!
