If you're looking for a simple, satisfying, and super tasty lunch or light dinner, this tuna Caesar salad has got you covered. It's ready to go in minutes with fresh Romaine lettuce, flaky canned tuna, crunchy croutons, and a creamy dressing. Plus, it’s loaded with flavor without being fussy—perfect for when you’re short on time but still want something delicious.
This Caesar Tuna Salad is a versatile dish that shines as a light lunch, a side dish for grilled fish or veggies, or even a quick dinner option. Pair it with home-baked bread, a bowl of soup, or a glass of chilled white wine for a complete and satisfying meal. It’s a perfect salad for casual weeknights or even as a potluck contribution when doubled or tripled!
If you want inspiration for your next tuna-based meal, check out our no-mayo tuna pasta salad!
Ingredients
- Romaine lettuce: Refreshing Romaine lettuce, with its crisp texture, is the classic base for any Caesar salad. Give it a quick rinse to ensure every bite is crunchy and clean, and chop it into bite-sized pieces.
- Canned tuna: Protein-rich tuna is the star of the show! Canned tuna is affordable and has a mild flavor that complements the bold Caesar dressing. Go for high-quality tuna in brine for a lighter option or in oil for a richer taste. Drain it well to avoid a soggy salad. For the best texture, choose an option with larger chunks of tuna.
- Red onion: Red onion adds a pop of color and a mild, tangy bite. Slice it thinly to avoid overpowering the salad, and if you prefer a milder flavor, soak the slices in cold water for a few minutes before tossing them in.
- Grated Parmesan cheese: No Caesar salad is complete without Parmesan. Savory Parmesan cheese brings a salty, nutty depth of flavor that ties everything together. Freshly grated Parmesan is ideal, but pre-grated works in a pinch!
- Bread croutons: Crunchy, golden croutons add a satisfying texture. You can use store-bought or homemade croutons that are easy to make. If you have leftover bread, make quick croutons by tossing diced bread with olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes or until golden brown. When short on time, simply place a couple of bread slices into a toaster and cut the toasted bread into smaller pieces.
- Caesar dressing: There's no need to make things too difficult! A good-quality store-bought Caesar dressing saves time and is a great option when in a hurry. Feel free to use a lighter or vegan option if you prefer. You can also make your own Caesar salad dressing at home using the dressing ingredients from this Caesar salad recipe. If you have leftover bread, make quick croutons by tossing diced bread with extra vergin olive oil, garlic powder, and a pinch of salt. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes.
- Salt and lemon pepper: A pinch of salt and lemon pepper adds the perfect finishing touch, enhancing all the flavors without overpowering them. The citrusy kick of lemon pepper pairs wonderfully with the tuna and is a great addition to this light yet flavorful salad.
Directions
- Prepare the lettuce: Wash and chop the crunchy Romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner to keep it crisp.
- Prep the toppings: Thinly slice the red onion. Drain the canned tuna and flake it into large chunks with a fork.
- Assemble the salad: Toss the lettuce with the Caesar dressing until lightly coated in one large bowl or individual servings. Add the red onion, flaked tuna, grated Parmesan, and croutons.
- Season: Sprinkle lightly with salt and lemon pepper to taste.
Frequently Asked Questions
Absolutely! While Romaine is a part of the traditional Caesar salad recipe, iceberg, green leaf, or even a spring salad kit is also a good choice for this salad. Note, though, that crunchy salad greens are always advised for the best texture and a more authentic taste.
Absolutely! Grilled or seared tuna can elevate the salad into a more gourmet dish. Just ensure it’s cooked and cooled before adding it to the salad.
You can use gluten-free croutons or skip them altogether. Most Caesar dressings are gluten-free, but double-check the label to be sure.
It’s best served fresh, but you can prep the ingredients separately and store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Toss everything together just before serving to keep the lettuce crisp. Don't add croutons to the pre-made salad so they don't soak in the dressing and don't become soft.
If you’re not a fan of tuna, try grilled chicken, shrimp, crispy baked bacon, or a hard-boiled egg. All of these work beautifully in this salad.
Expert Tips
- Chill your ingredients: Keep the lettuce and tuna cold for a refreshing, crisp salad.
- Don’t overdress: Start with a small amount of dressing and add more if needed. You can always add extra, but you can’t take it away.
- Customize it: Add cherry tomatoes, avocado, black olives, or a sprinkle of crushed black pepper for extra flair.
- Upgrade Your Croutons: Take your bread croutons to the next level by tossing them with a sprinkle of garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan before toasting them in the oven.
Quick & Easy Tuna Caesar Salad Recipe For Two
Ingredients
- ½ cup canned tuna (net weight)
- 3 tablespoon Caesar salad dressing
- 1 oz bread crumbs
- ½ Romaine lettuce heart
- ¼ red onion
- 1.5 oz grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon lemon pepper
Instructions
- Wash and chop the Romaine lettuce into bite-sized pieces. Pat it dry with a clean kitchen towel or salad spinner.
- Thinly slice the red onion. Drain the canned tuna and flake it into large chunks with a fork.
- Toss the lettuce with the Caesar dressing until lightly coated. Add the red onion, flaked tuna, grated Parmesan, and croutons.
- Sprinkle lightly with salt and lemon pepper to taste.
- Divide the salad into two bowls or plates. Garnish with additional Parmesan and croutons if desired. Alternatively, serve in one large salad bowl to be shared.
Notes
- Keep the lettuce and tuna cold for a refreshing, crisp salad.
- Add cherry tomatoes, avocado, black olives, or a sprinkle of crushed black pepper for extra flair.
- Spice things up by tossing the croutons with a sprinkle of garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and Parmesan before toasting them in the oven.
This Quick and Easy Caesar Tuna Salad is proof that delicious meals don’t have to be complicated. Whether you’re feeding yourself or sharing with someone special, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again. Give it a try, and let us know how you liked it in the comments below!
Nutritional Information
Disclaimer: This nutrition label has been created using the calculator provided by www.verywellfit.com, and it may not be 100% accurate.
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