Looking for a quick and satisfying Healthy Afternoon Snack? Tuna Salad Celery Sticks offer a crunchy, protein-packed option that’s both delicious and easy to prepare. You’ll love how simple it is to whip up this nutritious treat.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Canned Tuna: Use tuna packed in water for a lighter option. You can substitute with canned chicken or mashed chickpeas.
- Mayonnaise: Light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt works well for a creamy binder.
- Celery: Essential for crunch! Cucumbers or bell pepper strips can be alternative “scoops.”
- Lemon Juice: Adds brightness. A splash of apple cider vinegar can work in a pinch.
Ingredients:
- 1 (5-ounce) can tuna, drained
- 2 tablespoons light mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion (optional)
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill (optional)
- 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 4 large celery stalks, washed and trimmed
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Servings: 2
- Calories per serving: Approximately 150 calories
- Tools Needed: Small mixing bowl, spoon, knife, cutting board
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Tuna Salad
In a small mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, red onion (if using), fresh dill (if using), and lemon juice. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined.
2. Season the Tuna Salad
Season your tuna mixture with salt and black pepper to your taste. Stir again to ensure the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the salad.
3. Fill the Celery Sticks
Take your washed and trimmed celery stalks. Use a spoon to carefully fill each celery stalk with an equal amount of the prepared tuna salad.
4. Serve Immediately
Arrange the filled celery sticks on a plate. You can serve them right away as a fresh and satisfying Healthy Afternoon Snack.
Variation Ideas:
- Add a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning for extra flavor.
- Mix in finely diced pickles or capers for a tangy twist.
- Top with a dash of paprika for color and a smoky note.
- Incorporate a spoonful of mustard for a different flavor profile.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover tuna salad separately from the celery in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. Fill the celery sticks just before serving to maintain their crispness. The celery can be stored separately, washed and ready, for up to a week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
- Can I make the tuna salad ahead of time? Yes, you can prepare the tuna salad up to 2-3 days in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
- What if I don’t like celery? You can use cucumber slices, bell pepper strips, or even sturdy lettuce cups as alternatives for your Healthy Afternoon Snack.
- Is this recipe good for meal prep? Absolutely! Prepare the tuna salad and keep it separate from the celery. Assemble right before you eat.
- Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna? Yes, canned salmon is an excellent substitution for tuna in this recipe.
- How can I make this spicier? Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna salad mixture.
- What kind of tuna should I buy? Look for light tuna in water for a lower-calorie option, or albacore tuna for a firmer texture.
