This fresh, punchy salad brings together tender tuna, fragrant herbs, crisp vegetables, and a lively dressing with the classic balance of Thai flavours — salty, tangy, spicy, and slightly sweet. It’s quick to prepare, satisfying without feeling heavy, and ideal for a light lunch or simple dinner. The combination of lime, chilli, red onion, and mint adds brightness and depth, while the tuna provides protein to keep the dish filling and balanced. Served on its own or with lettuce cups, it’s a versatile salad that’s both refreshing and full of character.
Ingredients
- 2 cans tuna in spring water, drained
- ½ red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup fresh mint leaves
- 1 cup coriander leaves
- 1 small cucumber, sliced
- 1 fresh red chilli, finely sliced (optional)
- ¼ cup crispy shallots
- Lime wedges, to serve
Dressing
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar or honey
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
Method
Whisk together the lime juice, fish sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar or honey, and sesame oil until the sugar dissolves and the dressing is smooth.
In a large bowl, combine the drained tuna, red onion, mint, coriander, cucumber, and chilli if using. Pour the dressing over the salad and gently toss to coat, keeping some of the tuna pieces intact.
Transfer to a serving bowl and sprinkle with crispy shallots. Serve immediately with lime wedges for extra brightness.
This salad is best enjoyed fresh on the day it’s made.
