Matthew McConaughey’s Tuna Salad Recipe

Straight from the kitchen of Matthew McConaughey, this viral tuna salad is bold, creative, and surprisingly addictive. Loaded with unexpected mix-ins like peas, corn, green apple, and crispy jalapeños, it balances tangy, sweet, spicy, and creamy flavors in every bite. A far cry from your basic tuna salad, this recipe redefines what tuna salad can be—with a Texas twist.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with flavor—tangy, spicy, sweet, and savory all in one

• Features crispy jalapeños for crunch and wasabi for heat

• A great way to use pantry staples in a totally new way

• Perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or straight from the bowl

• Ideal for meal prep—stores well for days

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the dressing:

• 1 cup mayonnaise (or more as desired)

• 1 tablespoon wasabi paste

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• 1 tablespoon vinegar (white wine, red wine, or champagne)

• 1 tablespoon agave syrup or honey

• 1 tablespoon Italian dressing

For the salad:

• 4 (5 oz) cans good quality tuna (like Wild Planet or Safe Catch), drained

• 1 cup crispy jalapeños or 1–2 tablespoons jalapeño chili crisp (leave on the side if prepping ahead)

• ⅓ cup finely minced red onion

• ¼ cup chopped dill gherkin pickles

• ½ large green apple, diced small

• ½ cup corn (fresh or canned)

• ¼ cup frozen peas

• 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional for serving:

• Fresh dill

• Butter lettuce leaves

• Thick sandwich bread

• Sliced tomatoes

Directions

1. Make the dressing:
   In a small bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, wasabi paste, lemon juice, vinegar, agave or honey, and Italian dressing until smooth.

2. Combine the salad ingredients:
   In a large mixing bowl, add the drained tuna, red onion, pickles, apple, corn, peas, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. If not serving immediately, leave out the crispy jalapeños for now.

3. Add the dressing:
   Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and gently fold to combine. Mix until everything is well-coated.

4. Add the crispy jalapeños:
   If serving right away, fold in the crispy jalapeños. If prepping ahead, keep them separate and stir them in just before serving.

5. Serve and enjoy:
   Serve in lettuce cups, as a sandwich, or on its own with a sprinkle of fresh dill if desired.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Use Greek yogurt instead of mayo for a lighter version

• Swap green apple for red apple if you prefer it sweeter

• Add chopped celery or carrots for extra crunch

• Try smoked tuna or tuna in olive oil for added depth

• Add hard-boiled eggs for more protein

• Include capers or olives for briny flavor

• Skip peas and corn for a low-carb version

• Use hot honey instead of agave for a spicy-sweet twist

• Try crushed spicy potato chips if you can’t find crispy jalapeños

• Serve as a tuna melt with melted cheese on toast

Storage/Reheating

Store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Stir before serving to re-distribute the dressing. For best texture, store crispy jalapeños separately and mix them in just before eating. This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold and does not require reheating.

FAQs

Can I make this tuna salad ahead of time?

Yes, it’s great for meal prep! Just keep the crispy jalapeños separate and mix them in right before serving.

What kind of tuna should I use?

Matthew recommends high-quality brands like Wild Planet or Safe Catch. Look for sustainably caught, firm-textured tuna.

Is the wasabi overpowering?

No—it adds a gentle heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice preference.

Can I use tuna packed in water instead of oil?

Yes, just be sure to drain it well and consider adding a bit more mayo for richness.

What can I substitute for agave syrup?

Honey works well and gives a similar touch of sweetness.

Are the peas and corn necessary?

They add sweetness and texture, but you can leave them out or replace with another veggie like chopped cucumber.

How do I keep the jalapeños crispy?

Store them separately and add just before eating for the best texture.

Can I turn this into a tuna melt?

Absolutely. Spread the salad on bread, top with cheese, and toast or broil until bubbly.

Is this recipe keto-friendly?

With a few tweaks—like omitting the corn and peas—it can be easily adapted for a keto diet.

What should I serve this with?

Serve it with crackers, in lettuce wraps, on bread, or over salad greens for a satisfying meal.

Conclusion

Matthew McConaughey’s tuna salad isn’t just viral—it’s seriously good. With its wild mix of ingredients like apple, wasabi, and crispy jalapeños, this recipe brings bold, unexpected flavor that works. Whether you’re meal prepping for the week or just looking for a fun twist on a classic lunch, this unique tuna salad is one you’ll make again and again.

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