This isn’t your average tuna salad.
Inspired by Matthew McConaughey’s own bold take, this recipe blends creamy tuna, spicy jalapeño chips, crisp apples, and a hit of wasabi for a punch of flavor you won’t forget.
It’s the kind of salad that makes you rethink everything you thought you knew about tuna.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Unexpected Flavor Twist – Wasabi, dill pickles, and apple? Yes, and it works.
Perfect Texture Balance – Creamy, crunchy, juicy, and fresh all at once
Quick and Easy – Just chop, mix, and serve in under 20 minutes
Meal Prep Approved – Flavors get better after a day in the fridge
Versatile Serving – Great on toast, lettuce wraps, crackers, or straight from the bowl
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Tuna packed in olive oil – Rich, flavorful, and tender
Red onion & celery – Classic crunch and aromatic bite
Dill pickle gherkins – Adds tang and snap
Green apple – A juicy, slightly sweet contrast
Corn & green peas or edamame – Soft and colorful with natural sweetness
Kewpie mayo – Japanese mayo for a creamy, umami-rich base
Wasabi paste – A gentle heat that elevates everything
Jalapeño chips – Bold crunch and spice right at the end
Optional capers & fresh dill – For added saltiness and herbal lift
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use paper towels to pat all produce dry to avoid watery salad
Don’t skip draining the tuna, even if packed in olive oil
Chop everything to the same 6-mm size for best texture
Wasabi can be adjusted depending on how much heat you like
Add jalapeño chips just before serving for the ultimate crunch
How to Make Matthew McConaughey’s Tuna Salad
Step 1 – Prep the Produce
Wash and dry all vegetables and the apple.
Trim the ends and dice the red onion, celery, pickle gherkins, and apple into uniform 6-mm cubes.
If using fresh dill, roughly chop it and set it aside.
Step 2 – Drain the Tuna
Use a can opener to open both tuna cans.
Drain thoroughly—even if it’s packed in olive oil.
Always start fresh with your own olive oil when mixing.
Step 3 – Build the Salad Base
In a large mixing bowl, add the drained tuna, chopped vegetables, diced pickles, apple, corn, and green peas or edamame.
Step 4 – Mix the Dressing
To the bowl, add Kewpie mayonnaise, white wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, wasabi paste, Italian salad dressing, and a drizzle of olive oil.
Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
Mix everything together gently until well coated.
Step 5 – Add Optional Extras
If you’d like, mix in capers and chopped fresh dill for extra depth and brightness.
Step 6 – Finish with Crunch
Just before serving, gently fold in the crushed jalapeño chips and any remaining dill.
Step 7 – Serve and Enjoy
Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Enjoy as a salad, sandwich filling, or with crackers.
What to Serve It With
Toasted sourdough or whole grain bread
Butter lettuce wraps for a low-carb option
Pita chips, crackers, or veggie sticks
A side of sliced avocado or a simple green salad
Sweet iced tea or sparkling water with lemon
Variations / Substitutions
Swap protein: Try canned salmon or shredded chicken instead of tuna
Make it milder: Skip the wasabi or reduce the jalapeño chips
Add-ins: Try chopped boiled egg, avocado, or roasted red peppers
Dairy-free version: Use vegan mayo to make it completely dairy-free
Extra herbs: Parsley or chives work great in place of dill
Storage & Leftovers
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
Do not freeze—the texture will change
Stir in fresh chips just before serving to keep the crunch
Great for meal prep and lunchboxes
FAQs
Can I use tuna packed in water instead of oil?
Yes, but tuna in oil gives a richer taste.
If using water-packed, consider adding a bit more olive oil.
Is it too spicy with the wasabi and jalapeño chips?
Not overly! But you can reduce the wasabi and use plain chips if you prefer less heat.
Can I make this ahead?
Definitely. It actually tastes better after a few hours in the fridge.
What is the best way to serve it?
On toast, in lettuce wraps, or spooned onto crackers—it’s incredibly flexible.
What’s special about Kewpie mayo?
It’s creamier and slightly sweeter than American mayo, giving the salad more depth.
Can I add boiled eggs?
Yes! Chopped boiled eggs add more protein and richness.
Is this salad gluten-free?
The salad itself is gluten-free. Just make sure your chips and dressing are GF-certified.
Final Thoughts
This is tuna salad—reimagined.
With creamy mayo, spicy jalapeños, crisp apple, and that signature wasabi kick, it’s the kind of recipe that stops people mid-bite.
Whether you’re a fan of Matthew McConaughey or just want to try something fun, flavorful, and fast—this salad is worth every forkful.
