Spanish tuna tomato salad recipes

Quick, beautifully simple, and oh-so-delicious. Tuna salad recipes are something of a favorite here at the Spanish Radish HQ. 

A Spanish-style tuna tomato salad is a vibrant and flavorful dish that encapsulates the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This recipe combines the freshness of ripe on-vine tomatoes, rich flavorsome chunks of tuna soaked in olive oil, black olives, a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil, and some salt and pepper for seasoning.

The result is an alluring salad that embraces Spanish flavors with a no-fuss, no-cook recipe that’s prepared in minutes. 

Key ingredients typically include:

• Tomatoes: Ripe and juicy tomatoes form the base of the salad, contributing a burst of color and a refreshing tanginess.
• Tuna: Canned or freshly cooked tuna adds protein and a savory element to the dish. Tuna’s mild flavor complements the other ingredients well. 
• White onion: Thinly sliced onions introduce a mild pungency and a touch of crunchiness. Red onion can also be used for some extra color.
• Olives: Pitted black or green olives bring a briny and salty dimension, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• Olive oil: High-quality extra virgin olive oil serves as the dressing, infusing the salad with richness and healthy fats.
• Seasonings: Coarse sea salt and freshly black pepper are staples in any tuna salad recipe. Occasionally, a pinch of paprika or chili flakes can be used to season the salad.

Best tuna to use for tuna salad

For this recipe, we used Ortiz, Tuna Bonito Del Norte In Olive Oil. This tuna is caught off the coast of northern Spain and is highly regarded. In Spain, tuna is taken seriously and is of excellent quality and usually canned in olive oil.

Tinned tuna or tuna from the jar is most commonly used when making tuna salads. Always aim to purchase good quality tuna. We always use tuna that is in olive oil as it is far healthier than other oils such as sunflower oil, plus we love the taste. 

Spanish tinned tuna vs USA tinned tuna

Yep, there are certainly some noticeable differences in quality when it comes to tinned tuna across different countries. In Spain, generally speaking, tinned tuna is of excellent quality and is used in many recipes. One great example is Ensalada Rusa / Russian Salad. 

When purchasing tinned tuna, look for tuna that has been caught sustainably and always check the nutrition facts of any tinned tuna as some have a lot of added salt.

Serving suggestions

This recipe works great as a light main meal or it can be served as a side dish or even as a tasty tapas. 

Here are a few food pairing suggestions:

• Crusty bread or baguette slices: Serve the salad with slices of crusty bread or a fresh baguette. 
• Cheese platter: Create a Spanish cheese platter featuring a selection of Spanish cheeses like Manchego, Idiazabal, or Mahón. The cheeses’ unique flavors will work well with the salad’s Mediterranean profile. Discover more about the different types of Spanish cheeses.
• Grilled meats: Pair the salad with grilled chicken, steak, or even grilled shrimp. The freshness of the salad will balance the richness of the meats.
• Couscous or quinoa: Serve the salad over a bed of cooked couscous or quinoa for an added boost of protein and complex carbohydrates. 
• Tapas spread: Include the salad as part of a tapas spread, featuring various small plates like patatas bravas, garlic shrimp (Gambas al ajillo), Spanish omelette (tortilla española), and more.
• Chilled Spanish gazpacho soup: Start your meal with a refreshing bowl of chilled gazpacho soup. The soup’s coolness and vibrant flavors will complement the salad’s freshness.
• Charcuterie board: Incorporate the salad as one element of a larger charcuterie board that includes cured meats, olives, nuts, fruits, and crackers.
• Salad spread: Make a healthy salad buffet and include salads like this Mediterranean chickpea salad, no-mayo potato salad, spicy grilled shrimp with tangy peach salad, and tuna tartar with a lime, honey, and ginger marinade.

FAQs and Cooking Tips

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned tuna in Spanish tuna tomato salad? 

Absolutely. While canned tuna is commonly used for convenience, you can certainly use freshly cooked tuna. Simply grill, bake, or pan-sear the tuna fillet until cooked through, then flake it into the salad.

What type of tomatoes works best for this tuna tomato salad? 

Use ripe, juicy on-vine tomatoes to achieve the best flavors. Varieties like Roma, vine-ripened, or cherry tomatoes are great choices. Opt for tomatoes that are firm yet slightly giving to the touch, as they’ll contribute to the salad’s overall texture and taste.

Can I use vinegar for a dressing for this recipe?

Red wine vinegar is a popular choice for its slightly sweet and tangy profile, which complements the salad’s flavors. Balsamic vinegar can also be used for a richer taste, or white wine vinegar for milder acidity. 

Can I make Spanish tuna tomato salad ahead of time? 

Yes, you can prepare some of the components ahead of time. Chop the tomatoes and onion and store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, assemble the salad by combining the ingredients and adding the dressing. 

What can I serve with Spanish tuna tomato salad? 

This salad pairs well with a variety of dishes. Serve it as a light but satisfying main course, accompanied by some crusty bread. Alternatively, it makes an excellent side dish for grilled veggie or chicken dishes, seafood, or alongside a cheese and charcuterie platter for a Mediterranean-inspired spread.

Nutrition Facts