The combination of tuna, potatoes, and fresh herbs is a time-honored classic, bringing together simplicity and flavor in one delicious dish. This Creamy Tuna and Potato Salad with Biscuits is a delightful recipe that strikes the perfect balance between light and hearty. The creamy base, tangy pickled cucumbers, and the herby freshness of parsley and dill make it a refreshing yet satisfying dish that works as a quick lunch, a picnic favorite, or even a party appetizer.
What makes this salad truly unique is the versatility of its serving options. Paired with crisp, salted biscuits, it transforms into a crowd-pleasing finger food that’s perfect for gatherings. Each bite is a medley of creamy, tangy, and savory flavors with a hint of brightness from the fresh lemon juice.
Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner looking for an easy and foolproof recipe, this tuna and potato salad is sure to become a go-to in your repertoire. It’s a dish that bridges nostalgia and modern simplicity, making it timelessly appealing.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients
For the Salad:
- 1 medium potato (boiled and diced)
- 1 can of tuna (approximately 150–200 g, drained)
- 4 pickled cucumbers, diced (for a tangy crunch)
- 1 bunch of fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1 lemon, juiced (about 2 tablespoons of juice for tanginess)
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise (for creaminess)
- Salt, black pepper, and thyme to taste
- 1 bunch of fresh dill, finely chopped
For Serving:
- 2 packs of biscuits (salted or unsalted, your preference)
Prep Time, Cooking Time, and Total Time
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes (to boil the potato)
- Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings and Nutrition Information
- Servings: 4
- Calories per serving: ~250 kcal
- Nutritional Breakdown (per serving):
- Carbohydrates: 20 g
- Protein: 15 g
- Fat: 12 g
- Sodium: 450 mg
- Fiber: 3 g
Why This Recipe is Timeless
This recipe embodies timelessness because of its versatility, simplicity, and universal appeal. Tuna and potato salads have been staples in kitchens worldwide for decades, praised for their ease of preparation and adaptability. The combination of pantry staples like canned tuna and pickled cucumbers with fresh ingredients such as parsley and dill elevates the dish, making it both accessible and elegant.
The inclusion of biscuits for serving adds a playful and practical twist, transforming a simple salad into an impressive appetizer. Whether served at a casual brunch, a holiday spread, or a weekday meal, this dish fits seamlessly into any occasion. The timeless appeal of this recipe also lies in its ability to be customized—switch up the herbs, try a different dressing, or add extra vegetables for a personal touch.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Ingredients
- Cook the Potato: Peel and dice the potato into small, even-sized pieces. Boil in salted water until tender, about 15–20 minutes. Drain and let cool.
- Drain the Tuna: Open the can of tuna, drain the excess liquid, and flake it with a fork.
Step 2: Make the Salad
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the boiled and cooled potato, flaked tuna, diced pickled cucumbers, and chopped parsley.
- In a small bowl, mix the mayonnaise, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and thyme. Adjust the seasoning to taste.
- Pour the dressing over the salad ingredients and mix gently until everything is evenly coated.
Step 3: Add Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle the chopped dill over the salad and fold it in gently. Dill adds a burst of freshness that complements the tuna and mayonnaise beautifully.
Step 4: Chill the Salad
- Cover the salad and refrigerate it for at least 15–20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 5: Serve
- Arrange the biscuits on a serving platter.
- Scoop the chilled salad into a serving dish, or use small spoons to top individual biscuits for a decorative appetizer. Garnish with additional parsley or dill if desired.
FAQs
1. Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes! In fact, making the salad a few hours ahead allows the flavors to develop fully. Just cover it tightly and refrigerate until ready to serve.
2. What can I use instead of mayonnaise?
Greek yogurt or sour cream are excellent substitutes for mayonnaise. They’ll maintain the creaminess while adding a slightly tangy flavor.
3. Can I add other ingredients?
Absolutely! Chopped boiled eggs, diced celery, or a handful of sweetcorn can add texture and flavor.
4. What if I don’t like pickled cucumbers?
You can substitute them with fresh cucumbers for a milder crunch or leave them out entirely.
Tips for Perfect Tuna and Potato Salad
- Cook the potato correctly: Overcooking can make the potato mushy, while undercooking leaves it firm. Test for doneness with a fork—it should glide in easily.
- Use high-quality tuna: While canned tuna is convenient, opting for a good-quality brand can elevate the flavor. Tuna packed in olive oil often has a richer taste.
- Balance the dressing: Lemon juice and mayonnaise should be balanced to achieve a creamy yet tangy flavor. Add them gradually to suit your taste.
- Season generously: Potatoes absorb a lot of flavor, so don’t skimp on the salt, pepper, and herbs.
- Customize the biscuits: Use flavored crackers like rosemary or garlic for added depth.
Storage Tips
- Refrigeration: Store the salad in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Stir before serving to refresh the texture.
- Do not freeze: The mayonnaise in the salad does not freeze well and may separate upon thawing.
- Biscuits: Keep biscuits in an airtight container to maintain their crispness. If serving leftovers, assemble the salad and biscuits just before eating to avoid sogginess.
Conclusion
Creamy Tuna and Potato Salad with Biscuits is more than just a recipe—it’s a celebration of comfort, simplicity, and versatility. With its creamy texture, bright flavors, and satisfying heartiness, this dish has something for everyone. The pairing of salad with biscuits offers a unique serving option that’s sure to impress guests while remaining easy to prepare.
The timeless nature of this recipe lies in its adaptability. It’s the kind of dish that evolves with your pantry and preferences, welcoming substitutions and additions without losing its charm. Whether you’re hosting a party, packing a picnic, or preparing a quick family meal, this salad will always deliver.
Take the time to make this dish, and you’ll discover a recipe that’s more than the sum of its parts. It’s a reminder that even the simplest ingredients can create a meal that feels special, comforting, and undeniably delicious. So grab your ingredients, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the timeless joy of this creamy tuna and potato salad.