Name: Cucumber Tuna Salad Bites
Prep time: 15 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 (5 oz) can chunk light tuna in water, drained well; 2 tsp minced red onion (soaked in cold water for 5 minutes, then drained and rinsed); 1 Tbsp minced celery; 1 Tbsp minced dill; 1/4 cup mayonnaise; 1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice; 1/8 tsp black pepper; 2 cucumbers, sliced lengthwise; 3 grape tomatoes, quartered; Dill sprigs for garnish

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is a summer lifesaver when the heat makes cooking unbearable. It’s quick to make with minimal prep, requires no oven or stove, and offers a delicious combination of textures and flavors—crisp cucumber paired with a tangy, herby tuna salad. Perfect for entertaining or a light, healthy meal, these bites stay cool and satisfying without weighing you down.

Ingredients

1 5 oz can chunk light tuna in water, drained well
2 tsp minced red onion, soaked in cold water for 5 minutes, then drained and rinsed
1 Tbsp minced celery
1 Tbsp minced dill
1/4 cup mayo
1/2 tsp fresh lemon juice
1/8 tsp black pepper
2 cucumbers with slices down the sides
3 grape tomatoes sliced into quarters
Dill sprigs for garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

Drain the canned tuna thoroughly and place it in a medium bowl.
Add the minced red onion (pre-soaked to reduce sharpness), celery, dill, mayo, lemon juice, and black pepper to the bowl. Mix gently until well combined.
Cut the cucumbers into 1-inch thick rounds. Use a small spoon or melon baller to scoop out the center of each slice, creating little cucumber cups while keeping the base intact.
Spoon the tuna salad mixture into each cucumber cup, filling them generously.
Top each bite with a quarter of a grape tomato and garnish with a small dill sprig.
Arrange on a serving platter and chill briefly if desired before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes

Variations

Substitute Greek yogurt for mayo for a lighter, tangier version.
Add chopped capers or pickles for an extra briny punch.
Use flavored tuna (like lemon pepper or herb-infused) for additional flavor depth.
Swap out cucumbers for bell pepper rings or endive leaves for different textures.
Include chopped hard-boiled egg or avocado in the tuna mix for creaminess and protein boost.

Storage/reheating

Store any leftover tuna salad separately in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep cucumber cups chilled and fill just before serving to maintain crispness. These bites are best enjoyed fresh and cold—do not reheat.

FAQs

Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water-packed tuna?

Yes, but be sure to drain the tuna well to avoid excess oil making the salad soggy.

How do I keep the cucumber cups from becoming watery?

Scoop out the cucumber centers just before serving and fill immediately. You can also lightly salt the cucumber cups and let them sit for 10 minutes, then pat dry to reduce moisture.

Can this recipe be made vegan?

Yes, substitute the tuna with mashed chickpeas and use vegan mayo to create a similar texture and flavor.

How long will the tuna salad keep in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, the tuna salad will stay fresh for up to 2 days.

Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?

You can prepare the tuna salad up to a day in advance but assemble the cucumber bites just before serving to prevent sogginess.

What can I use instead of fresh dill?

Dried dill can work, but use about half the amount as it is more concentrated. Fresh parsley or chives are also good alternatives.

Is it okay to add other vegetables to the tuna salad?

Absolutely! Finely chopped bell peppers, radishes, or even shredded carrots can add crunch and flavor.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it is naturally gluten-free, but always check that your mayo and other packaged ingredients are certified gluten-free if needed.

What type of cucumber works best?

English cucumbers or Kirby cucumbers are ideal due to their firm texture and fewer seeds.

Can this be served as a main dish?

For a light lunch, serve with a side salad or whole grain bread to make it more filling.

Conclusion

Cucumber Tuna Salad Bites are a perfect, no-fuss recipe to beat the heat while still enjoying a flavorful and nutritious meal. With their crisp freshness and easy prep, they fit seamlessly into summer gatherings or quick weekday lunches. Customize with your favorite mix-ins or serve them straight as described—the simplicity and deliciousness will keep you coming back to this recipe all season long.

Cucumber Tuna Salad Bites