Thai Tuna Salad Recipe (Yum Tuna)
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This yum tuna recipe makes a spicy Thai tuna salad tossed with a zesty chili-lime dressing and fresh herbs. It’s low-carb, gluten-free, healthy, and ideal for a light lunch, meal prep, or even a sandwich spread.
Tip: Thai yum salads are super versatile and easy to make. You can swap the tuna for any cooked protein, like beef, chicken, or even seafood, and toss it with the same dressing for a whole new flavor.
What is yum tuna
Yum tuna is a Thai spicy tuna salad made with canned tuna, fish sauce, lime juice, chilies, and fresh herbs. It tastes salty, tangy, and spicy, with a light, refreshing feel. You can serve it as a main dish, side, or even use it as a sandwich filling.
About this recipe
Thai seasonings turn humble canned tuna into something bright, punchy, and full of flavor. This recipe is quick, easy to make, and always a hit with everyone.
Want it extra spicy or more mild? Simply adjust the amount of chili peppers or swap the tuna for another type of fish you prefer.
There aren’t any vegetables in the base recipe, but feel free to add whatever’s in your fridge. Sliced cucumber, shredded carrots, or even cherry tomatoes work great.
It’s light, refreshing, and completely mayo-free; perfect as a low-carb lunch, snack, or meal prep option!
Ingredient notes & substitutes
You can grab everything you need for this recipe at your nearest Asian grocery store or market. For exact measurements, head to the recipe card below!
- Canned tuna – The main protein in this recipe; canned tuna in water works best, but canned in oil or fresh seared tuna are also great options.
- Cilantro, scallions – These fresh herbs add brightness; you can also use Thai basil or mint for variation.
- Lemongrass – Finely chopped lemongrass brings a citrusy aroma.
- Thai shallots – Adds a mild sweetness and sharp bite; red onions can be used as a sub, though flavor may vary.
- Chilies – I use Thai Jinda chilies; use fewer or swap with milder chilies to adjust the spice level.
- White sugar – Balances the salty and spicy flavors; avoid palm or brown sugar for best results.
- Fish sauce – A key ingredient in Thai cuisine, it adds rich umami and saltiness to the yam tuna salad dressing. I use Megachef brand.
- Lime – Fresh lime juice gives the salad its signature tang.
How to make Thai tuna salad
Step 1: Use a sieve to drain the canned tuna well, then set it aside in a bowl.
Step 2: In a mixing bowl, stir together fresh lime juice, fish sauce, and white sugar until the sugar fully dissolves.
Step 3: Mix in the chopped cilantro, scallions, shallots, and chilies until evenly combined.
Step 4: Gently fold in the drained tuna and mix well. Serve on its own, with sticky rice, noodles, or as a tuna lettuce wrap filling!
What to do with leftovers
Keep your spicy tuna salad leftovers in an airtight container and store it in your fridge. It’ll stay fresh for up to 2 days. Avoid freezing and give it a gentle mix before serving.
Authentic Thai salad recipes
- Pork larb (ground pork with herbs and spices)
- Nam tok moo (Thai grilled pork salad)
- Som tam (green papaya salad)
- Spicy Thai chicken salad
- Thai corn salad
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Thai Tuna Salad Recipe (Easy Yum Tuna)
Equipment
- Fine mesh sieve
- cutting board and knife
- Mixing bowl
- Spoon
Ingredients
- 5 oz canned tuna
- 1 stalk lemongrass, chopped
- 1/4 cup shallots, chopped
- 1 stalk green onion, chopped
- 1 tbsp cilantro, chopped
- 3 chilies, chopped, adjust to taste
- 1/2 tablespoon lime juice
- 1/2 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Drain the tuna: Place the canned tuna in a fine mesh sieve and press gently to remove excess liquid.
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl, mix fresh lime juice, fish sauce, and white sugar until the sugar is dissolved.
- Add herbs and aromatics: Stir in chopped coriander, scallions, shallots, and chilies.
- Toss the salad: Add the drained tuna and gently mix until everything is well coated.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill for later. Great on its own, with sticky rice, or as a sandwich filling.
Notes
- Use the nutrition card in this recipe as a guideline.
- Feel free to add your favorite vegetables or replace tuna with grilled chicken or other protein.
How much sugar? It is not listed in ingredients.
Hey Esther, I have updated the recipe with 1/2 teaspoon. Thank you for noticing!
The recipe still lists salt as an ingredient, not sugar. I’m excited to try this tuna salad!!
Thank you so much for noticing! It should be ok now. The tuna salad is really great!