Name: Albacore Tuna Salad with Creamy Herbed Dressing and Pickled Onions Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 5 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 small red onion, halved and thinly sliced; ¾ cup water; 4 tablespoons rice vinegar; 1 ½ tablespoons sugar; 2 teaspoons kosher salt; 2 tablespoons sour cream; ¼ cup mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon buttermilk; 1 teaspoon lemon juice; 2 tablespoons shallot, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon dill, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon tarragon, finely chopped; ½ teaspoon garlic powder; ½ teaspoon kosher salt; 6.7 oz yellowfin tuna in oil (preferably Tonnino); 5 ribs celery, cut diagonally; ½ medium fennel bulb, thinly sliced; 3 Persian cucumbers, cut diagonally; 2 stems tarragon, torn; 2 stems dill, torn; 2 tablespoons parsley, finely chopped; 1 lemon, zested; ¼ lemon, juiced; 1 teaspoon flaky sea salt

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 86 reviews

If you are looking to brighten up your lunch or impress at your next gathering, the Albacore Tuna Salad with Creamy Herbed Dressing and Pickled Onions Recipe is an absolute game changer. This salad combines the delicate, buttery flavor of high-quality albacore tuna with the zing of pickled onions and a luscious herb-packed dressing that’s as creamy as it is fresh. Every bite bursts with layers of texture—from crisp celery and crunchy cucumbers to the subtle anise notes of fennel, all coming together in perfect harmony. Trust me, this salad will quickly become your go-to when you crave something light, satisfying, and packed with vibrant flavors.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a white marbled surface with several bowls and fresh ingredients arranged neatly. There is a large white bowl filled with bright red sliced beetroot in liquid, placed near the center. Surrounding it are smaller bowls containing finely chopped white onion, two kinds of white creamy sauces, chopped fresh green herbs, grated orange carrot, a small amount of salt, and some light yellow liquid. On the right side, there are fresh green cucumbers, leafy green herbs, a glass jar with a golden lid holding preserved yellow fish in oil, and stalks of light green celery with leafy tops. The whole scene is bright and clean with natural light highlighting the colors and textures of the vegetables and bowls. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is half the fun and magic of making this salad. Each element, from the tangy pickled onions to the fresh herbs in the dressing, plays a decisive role in creating a dish that feels both elegant and easygoing. Here’s what you’ll want to gather to achieve that perfect balance of taste, texture, and color.

Small red onion: Thinly sliced for quick pickling, providing a bright and tangy crunch.
Rice vinegar: The acid base for the pickling liquid, offering a mild tartness that won’t overpower.
Sugar: Balances acidity in the pickling brine for subtle sweetness.
Kosher salt: Enhances flavors gently without overwhelming the salad components.
Sour cream: Adds creamy tang and richness to the herbed dressing.
Mayonnaise: Provides body and smooth texture in the dressing.
Buttermilk: Brings a slight acidity and thins the dressing for a perfect consistency.
Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps lift the herbs in the dressing.
Shallot: Finely chopped for a mild onion flavor that blends beautifully in the creamy dressing.
Dill, tarragon, parsley: Fresh herbs are key for aromatic, garden-fresh flavor bursts throughout.
Garlic powder: Provides a subtle savory depth in the dressing.
Yellowfin tuna packed in oil: The star ingredient, rich and tender for ultimate comfort.
Celery ribs: Sliced diagonally for crunch and freshness.
Fennel bulb: Thinly sliced to add an elegant licorice note and textural contrast.
Persian cucumbers: Crisp, hydrating slices that bring coolness to every forkful.
Lemon zest and juice: Finishing touches that brighten the salad and tie all flavors together.
Flaky sea salt: To season gently and add a delicate burst of saltiness.

How to Make Albacore Tuna Salad with Creamy Herbed Dressing and Pickled Onions Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sweet Pickled Onions

Start by thinly slicing half a small red onion as finely as you can – the thinner, the better for quick pickling. Bring together water, rice vinegar, sugar, and kosher salt in a small saucepan and bring it to a gentle simmer until sugar and salt dissolve. Pour this warm pickling liquid over your onions in a jar or bowl, and let them sit for at least 20 minutes. This quick pickle adds a lively tang and a subtle sweetness that cuts beautifully through the richness of the tuna and dressing.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Herb Dressing

In a mixing bowl, combine sour cream, mayonnaise, buttermilk, and lemon juice, whisking until smooth and luscious. Stir in finely chopped shallots, dill, tarragon, garlic powder, and kosher salt. The fresh herbs shine in this creamy mixture, giving the dressing its irresistible garden-fresh quality. It’s the perfect balance of creaminess and brightness to complement every crunchy and tender ingredient you’ll add later.

Step 3: Prepare the Tuna Salad Base

Drain your premium yellowfin tuna gently to keep its texture intact, then flake it lightly with a fork. Add thinly sliced fennel, diagonally cut celery ribs, and Persian cucumbers—in these shapes and cuts, each bite gains a satisfying crunch. Toss in torn tarragon and dill leaves along with finely chopped parsley. The fresh herbs mingle with the lemon zest and juice at this stage to infuse subtle citrus and floral notes that elevate the salad.

Step 4: Assemble the Salad

Gently fold together the tuna and crisp vegetables with a spoonful or two of your creamy herb dressing, ensuring every element gets lovingly coated without losing its texture. Add flaky sea salt to finish seasoning. Finally, fold in the sweet, pickled onions to introduce bursts of acidic brightness within the creamy, herbal mix. The salad is now ready to impress!

How to Serve Albacore Tuna Salad with Creamy Herbed Dressing and Pickled Onions Recipe

The image shows four stages of making a salad dish on a white marbled surface. The first stage is a bowl with layers of food: bright green cucumber slices on the left, followed by chopped dark green herbs, shredded pale yellow vegetables, light pink pickled onions in the center, chunks of light brown fish on top, and fresh green dill on the right. The second stage shows the same bowl now mixed together with the different colors spread evenly, including greens, pale yellows, pinks, and light brown pieces with two silver forks. The third stage is a white plate with a spread of thick white sauce with specks of green herbs, smooth and creamy in texture. The last stage shows the mixed salad pile now on top of the white sauce, with the colorful mix of cucumbers, pink onions, herbs, and fish forming a rough circle in the center of the plate. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To give your salad that final wow factor, sprinkle extra fresh dill or parsley on top just before serving. A few lemon wedges on the side invite loved ones to add a fresh squeeze of lemon juice that will brighten everything further. For a bit of extra texture, scattering toasted nuts like pine nuts or sliced almonds pairs wonderfully with the salad’s creamy elements.

Side Dishes

Serve this salad alongside crusty artisan bread or crispy crackers for an enjoyable contrast. It also pairs beautifully with simple roasted vegetables or a light soup, making it a great choice for a full meal or a light supper. If you’re entertaining, complement it with chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon to keep things fresh and lively.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, pile the salad onto a bed of mixed greens or inside halved avocado halves for an elegant yet simple presentation. You might also try stuffing it into whole-grain pita pockets or serving it as a colorful topping for crostini at your next gathering. Because of its gorgeous layers and textures, it always looks as good as it tastes, no matter how you serve it.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which could be a real challenge), store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep fresh for up to two days, though for best texture, try to enjoy it sooner since cucumbers and celery tend to lose their crispness over time.

Freezing

This salad isn’t ideal for freezing because the fresh vegetables and creamy dressing can separate and become watery upon thawing. It’s best to prepare it fresh whenever possible or at least keep components like the dressing and pickled onions separate if you want to prep ahead.

Reheating

This salad is served cold or at room temperature, so reheating isn’t necessary. Simply allow it to sit out for a few minutes if it’s come straight from the fridge to let the flavors open up. If you want a warm element, serve with toasted bread or crackers on the side instead.

FAQs

Can I use other types of tuna for this recipe?

While yellowfin albacore tuna is recommended for its delicate texture and rich flavor, you can experiment with other high-quality tuna varieties if you prefer. Just be sure to use tuna packed in oil for that luxurious mouthfeel, and adjust seasoning accordingly.

How long do the pickled onions need to marinate?

For quick pickling, 20 to 30 minutes is sufficient to develop that perfect balance of acidity and sweetness. However, you can leave them longer—up to a few hours or overnight—if you like a stronger pickled flavor.

Can I substitute the buttermilk in the dressing?

Yes, you can substitute buttermilk with whole milk plus a splash of lemon juice or white vinegar to mimic the acidity. Greek yogurt also works well to keep the dressing creamy and tangy.

Is this salad suitable for meal prep lunches?

It absolutely is! Just keep in mind that the fresh vegetables may soften the longer they sit, so try to pack the dressing separately and combine everything right before eating for the best texture.

Can I add other vegetables or ingredients?

Definitely! Feel free to add ingredients like cherry tomatoes, radishes, or even boiled eggs for extra color and flavor. Just keep in mind that the balance of herbs and dressing should be adjusted to complement any additions.

Final Thoughts

You really can’t go wrong with the Albacore Tuna Salad with Creamy Herbed Dressing and Pickled Onions Recipe. It’s the kind of dish that feels special but comes together effortlessly and leaves everyone asking for seconds. Whether for a casual weekday meal or a fancy lunch with friends, this salad dazzles with fresh flavors, textures, and that perfect creamy-tangy-herb combo. Give it a try—you’ll be so glad you did!

Albacore Tuna Salad with Creamy Herbed Dressing and Pickled Onions Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need