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Tuna salad has long been a staple dish in kitchens around the world. Its combination of protein-rich tuna, creamy dressing, and crunchy vegetables makes it not only satisfying but also a versatile option for a quick meal. Whether served on a sandwich, atop a bed of greens, or scooped onto crackers, tuna salad has found its place in lunchboxes and dinner tables alike. However, if you're looking for a fresh take on this classic dish, tuna salad boats offer a fun and healthy twist that elevates the traditional recipe to new heights.

Back to School Tuna Salad Boats

Discover a fresh twist on a classic dish with tasty tuna salad boats! These handheld delights replace traditional bread with crisp lettuce leaves, creating a healthy, low-carb option that’s bursting with flavor. Packed with protein-rich tuna, crunchy vegetables, and creamy dressing, they’re quick to prepare and fully customizable to suit your taste. Perfect for lunches, snacks, or gatherings, these vibrant boats add both nutrition and appeal to your meals.

Ingredients
  

2 cans (5 oz each) tuna packed in water, thoroughly drained

1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt

1/4 cup mayonnaise

1 tablespoon Dijon mustard

1/2 cup celery, finely chopped

1/4 cup red bell pepper, finely chopped

1/4 cup sweet pickle relish

1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

4 large lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce)

Optional toppings: sliced black olives, halved cherry tomatoes, or creamy avocado slices

Instructions
 

In a spacious mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and Dijon mustard. Stir vigorously until all ingredients are blended smoothly and well incorporated.

    Add the finely chopped celery, red bell pepper, sweet pickle relish, and fresh lemon juice to the tuna mixture. Gently fold the ingredients until the vegetables are evenly dispersed throughout the tuna mixture.

      Season your tuna salad with a sprinkle of salt and a dash of freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Adjust the seasoning based on your personal preference, ensuring a balanced flavor.

        To create your salad boats, take one large lettuce leaf and place it on a clean plate. Spoon a generous mound of the tuna salad mixture into the center of the leaf, allowing for a hearty filling.

          For added flavor and visual appeal, consider topping your tuna salad with optional ingredients like sliced black olives, halved cherry tomatoes, or creamy avocado slices.

            Carefully fold the sides of the lettuce leaf towards the center, creating a boat shape that holds the tuna salad securely. Repeat this assembly process with the remaining lettuce leaves and tuna salad mixture.

              Serve your tasty tuna salad boats immediately for a fresh experience, or refrigerate for up to one hour for a delightful chilled option.

                Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 15 minutes | Servings: 4 boats

                  - Presentation Tips: Arrange the tuna salad boats on a platter with fresh herbs as a garnish for a vibrant look. You can also serve them with a wedge of lemon on the side for an extra splash of zest. Enjoy!