Tuna Cashew Salad

Tuna Cashew Salad Recipe - A Delicious and Healthy Meal from the USA

Region / culture: USA | Servings: 4

Introduction

Tuna Cashew Salad is a delicious and satisfying dish that is perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This salad combines the flavors of tuna, crunchy cashews, and a creamy dressing for a tasty and nutritious meal.

History

Tuna Cashew Salad is a popular dish that has been enjoyed by many for years. The combination of tuna and cashews provides a unique and flavorful twist on a traditional salad.

Ingredients

3 cups cooked rice, cooled
2 x 6.5 oz (184 g) cans of tuna in water, drained and flaked
1 cup chopped celery
0.33 cup chopped roasted cashew nuts
0.25 cup finely chopped onion
1 tbsp capers
1 cup mayonnaise
1 tsp lemon juice
0.5 tsp curry powder
0.5 tsp salt
lettuce leaves (optional)

How to prepare

In a large bowl, combine rice, tuna, celery, cashews, onion, and capers.
Blend mayonnaise, lemon juice, curry, and salt together, then toss with the rice mixture.
Alternatively, you can chill the salad and dressing separately, and serve the salad topped with the dressing.
If desired, serve on lettuce leaves.

Variations

Add in diced apples or grapes for a sweet and crunchy twist.
Substitute the tuna with cooked chicken or chickpeas for a different flavor profile.
Mix in some dried cranberries or raisins for a touch of sweetness.

Cooking Tips & Tricks

Be sure to use cooked and cooled rice for this recipe to ensure the salad has the right texture.

- You can customize this salad by adding in your favorite vegetables or herbs for extra flavor.

- For a lighter version, you can use Greek yogurt in place of mayonnaise in the dressing.

Serving Suggestions

Tuna Cashew Salad can be served on its own as a light meal, or paired with a side of fresh fruit or a slice of crusty bread.

Cooking Techniques

This recipe requires basic cooking techniques such as chopping, mixing, and blending.

Ingredient Substitutions

You can use any type of nuts in place of cashews, such as almonds or walnuts.

- If you don't have capers, you can use chopped pickles or olives instead.

Make Ahead Tips

You can prepare the salad and dressing ahead of time and store them separately in the refrigerator. Combine them just before serving for the best flavor.

Presentation Ideas

Serve the Tuna Cashew Salad on a bed of lettuce leaves for a beautiful presentation, or garnish with fresh herbs or a sprinkle of paprika.

Pairing Recommendations

This salad pairs well with a crisp white wine or a refreshing iced tea.

Storage and Reheating Instructions

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best served cold and does not need to be reheated.

Nutrition Information

Calories per serving

This recipe contains approximately 350 calories per serving.

Carbohydrates

This recipe contains approximately 30 grams of carbohydrates per serving.

Fats

This recipe contains approximately 20 grams of fat per serving.

Proteins

This recipe contains approximately 15 grams of protein per serving.

Vitamins and minerals

Tuna Cashew Salad is a good source of vitamin B12, selenium, and omega-3 fatty acids.

Alergens

This recipe contains nuts and mayonnaise, which may be allergens for some individuals.

Summary

Tuna Cashew Salad is a nutritious and balanced meal that provides a good mix of carbohydrates, fats, and proteins.

Summary

Tuna Cashew Salad is a flavorful and nutritious dish that is easy to make and perfect for a light meal. With a creamy dressing, crunchy cashews, and tender tuna, this salad is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

How did I get this recipe?

I can still remember the exact moment I discovered this recipe for Tuna Cashew Salad. It was during a visit to a bustling market in Thailand, where the air was filled with the fragrant scents of exotic spices and fresh produce. I had wandered into a small, family-owned restaurant tucked away in a corner of the market, drawn in by the sound of sizzling pans and the laughter of diners.

As I settled into a table, I was greeted by the warm smile of the owner, a lovely woman named Mai. She had a twinkle in her eye and an infectious energy that instantly made me feel at home. I ordered a simple salad with tuna and cashews, curious to see how the flavors would come together.

When the dish arrived, I was captivated by its beauty. The vibrant colors of the fresh vegetables and herbs were a feast for the eyes, and the aroma that wafted from the plate was simply divine. As I took my first bite, I was transported to a place of pure bliss. The tender chunks of tuna paired perfectly with the crunchy cashews, and the tangy dressing tied everything together in a harmonious symphony of flavors.

I couldn't help but ask Mai for the recipe, and to my delight, she graciously agreed to share it with me. She took me into her kitchen, where we worked side by side, chopping vegetables, toasting cashews, and mixing up the dressing. As we cooked, Mai shared stories of her family and the traditions that had been passed down through generations. I felt honored to be a part of this culinary journey, learning not just a recipe, but a piece of Mai's history.

After a few hours of cooking and chatting, the salad was finally ready. We sat down at a table, surrounded by the hustle and bustle of the market, and dug into our creation. With each bite, I could taste the love and care that had gone into making this dish. It was a simple salad, but it was filled with so much more than just ingredients.

As I left Mai's restaurant that day, I knew that I had stumbled upon something truly special. This recipe for Tuna Cashew Salad had not only tantalized my taste buds, but it had also opened my eyes to the power of food as a connector of people and cultures. I felt inspired to carry on Mai's tradition, to share this recipe with my own loved ones and pass it down through the generations.

And so, whenever I make Tuna Cashew Salad, I am transported back to that bustling market in Thailand, to the warmth of Mai's kitchen and the laughter of new friends. Each bite is a reminder of the beauty of food and the stories it holds. And as I serve this dish to my family and friends, I hope that they too can feel the love and history that is woven into every bite.