Wawa’s tuna salad is a fan favorite for good reason – it’s tasty, simple and easy to grab on-the-go. But did you know you can easily recreate this iconic sandwich filling in your own kitchen? With just a few simple ingredients and steps you can make an easy tuna salad that rivals the Wawa classic.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know to make delicious, homemade Wawa-style tuna salad.
Overview of Wawa Tuna Salad
For those not familiar with it Wawa’s tuna salad has a simple ingredient list of tuna, mayonnaise sweet relish, celery, and seasonings. It has a smooth, creamy texture punctuated by crunchy bits of celery and relish. The mayo and relish give it a nice tangy flavor profile.
Wawa prepares their tuna salad fresh in stores daily using chunk light tuna. It’s served on sandwiches or sold by the scoop or pound. Fans love it for the fresh, homemade taste you just can’t get from pre-made tuna salads.
Making your own at home allows you to customize it to your tastes and avoid the hassle of going out to get it. With the right techniques and ingredients, you can make a tuna salad that gives Wawa’s version a run for its money!
Ingredients Needed
To closely recreate the Wawa tuna salad flavor and texture, you’ll need:
- 2 (5 oz) cans chunk light tuna, drained
- 1⁄4 cup mayonnaise
- 1⁄4 cup sweet relish
- 1⁄4 cup diced celery
- 1⁄2 teaspoon lemon juice (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Chunk light tuna provides the tender, flaky texture that mimics Wawa’s, without some of the strong fishy flavors you can get from albacore tuna.
Mayonnaise and relish give creaminess and tang. Celery adds welcome crunch and texture. Lemon brightens up the flavors. And salt and pepper round everything out.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making tuna salad is simple with these easy steps:
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Drain the tuna – Open the cans and empty the contents into a colander, draining off any excess liquid. Transfer the drained tuna to a mixing bowl.
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Add mayonnaise, relish, and celery – Measure out 1⁄4 cup each of mayonnaise, sweet relish, and diced celery. Add to the tuna and mix to combine.
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Season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper – Add lemon juice, about 1⁄2 teaspoon. Then season to taste with salt and pepper. Mix well.
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Chill before serving – Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for 30 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld.
That’s it! After chilling, your tuna salad is ready to enjoy.
Serving and Storage Tips
Your homemade tuna salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 4 days. Here are some serving ideas:
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Scoop it onto bread, crackers, or lettuce leaves for tuna sandwiches or wraps.
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Top a green salad or stuff into tomatoes or avocado halves for a tasty salad.
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Mix with pasta or rice for tuna pasta or rice salad meals.
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Add some spice by mixing in diced jalapeños or Sriracha sauce.
Pro tip: For best flavor and texture, use the tuna salad within a couple days. The veggies start releasing moisture, making it watery.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of tuna should I use?
For a close match to Wawa’s, use chunk light tuna. It has nicer texture and milder flavor compared to white albacore tuna.
Can I use low-fat or non-fat mayo?
Yes, you can use reduced fat mayonnaise options. The taste may vary slightly, but the tuna salad will have a similar creamy texture.
Is there a vegan version I can make?
Absolutely! Instead of tuna, use drained and rinsed chickpeas. Substitute vegan mayo for the regular mayo. Then proceed with the rest of the ingredients and steps as directed.
Can I add other ingredients like onion or hot sauce?
Feel free to customize it to your tastes! Onion, hot sauce, minced pickles, or other seasonings are tasty additions.
How long does homemade tuna salad last?
It will keep fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days. Make sure to store it in an airtight container.
The Verdict
Making restaurant-quality tuna salad at home is easy with this simple recipe. With a few affordable ingredients and basic techniques, you can create the classic Wawa flavor you love.
Next time you get a craving, skip the trip and try making it yourself. Customize it to your tastes or follow the recipe exactly for an authentic copycat version. Either way, your homemade Wawa-style tuna salad will be a new pantry staple!