Salads
This Atlanta Bread Company tuna salad recipe transforms simple ingredients into a crispy-crusted, restaurant-worthy dish that elevates your lunch game. The secret lies in their signature bread—torn into perfect, golden croutons that add texture and depth to every bite.
I developed this recipe after discovering how their bread's sturdy texture holds up beautifully when toasted, creating a satisfying crunch that balances the creamy tuna mixture.
What sets this recipe apart is the zesty mayo magic—a tangy blend of Atlanta Bread Company's mayo with Dijon mustard and a touch of lemon juice that brightens the dish. The tuna stays flaky and fresh, while celery and red onion add a crisp bite.
The croutons, toasted to a crispy golden brown, soak up just enough flavor to become the star of the salad. This isn't your average tuna salad—it's a textural and flavor experience that deserves center stage.
The result is a tuna salad with layers of flavor and texture: creamy, tangy, crispy, and fresh all in one forkful. The croutons stay crunchy even after mixing, and the mayo holds its shape without turning greasy.
It's the kind of salad that makes you look forward to lunchtime, whether you're packing it for work or serving it at a picnic. The Atlanta Bread Company's bread isn't just an ingredient—it's the foundation that makes this salad truly special.
Serve this tuna salad on their signature buns for sandwiches or alongside crackers for a satisfying appetizer. The recipe scales perfectly for parties or meal prep, and the flavors only improve as the croutons absorb more of that zesty mayo over time.
Let's get started on creating your next favorite lunch!
Ingredients for atlanta bread company tuna salad
Crispy croutons, zesty mayo, and flaky tuna—this lunch game-changer needs just 13 ingredients.
| Ingredient | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Atlanta Bread Company Signature Bread 🍞 | 1 loaf | Stale or day-old preferred |
| Tuna (in water) 🐟 | 1 ½ cans | Drained, flaked by hand |
| Atlanta Bread Company Mayo 🥫 | ½ cup | Not regular mayo—this stuff's magic |
| Dijon Mustard 🌶️ | 1 tbsp | For that tangy kick |
| Lemon Juice 🍋 | 1 tbsp | Freshly squeezed, brightens everything |
| Celery Stalk 🧅 | 1 whole | Finely diced, crisp texture |
| Red Onion 🧅 | ¼ cup | Finely diced, adds bite |
| Salt 🧂 | ½ tsp | Diamond Crystal preferred |
| Black Pepper 🌶️ | ¼ tsp | Freshly ground, essential |
| Olive Oil 🫒 | 1 tbsp | For extra crispy croutons |
| Garlic Powder 🧄 | ½ tsp | Adds subtle depth |
| Paprika 🌶️ | ¼ tsp | Smoked for extra flavor |
| Dried Dill 🌿 | ½ tsp | For herby brightness |
The bread is non-negotiable—Atlanta Bread Company's signature loaf has that perfect sturdy texture that turns into golden croutons. Grab a loaf from their website or local bakery if you can't find it; regular sandwich bread works in a pinch but won't give that same satisfying crunch. For the tuna, water-packed is key—oil-packed makes everything greasy. The mayo? Only Atlanta Bread Company's—it's tangier than regular mayo and holds up perfectly. If you're using regular mayo, add an extra tablespoon of lemon juice to compensate. The celery and red onion should be finely diced—small pieces distribute better and add that satisfying crunch to every bite.
No Atlanta Bread Company mayo? Hellmann's or Best Foods in a pinch, but add 1/2 tsp extra lemon juice. Fresh dill out of season? Dried dill at half the amount works, but fresh has that brightness. The croutons are where the magic happens—if you're short on time, toasted bread cubes from the store (like those in the deli section) work, but homemade are always better. For extra tang, add a pinch of cayenne pepper to the mayo mix. The garlic powder and smoked paprika give that subtle depth that makes this salad taste restaurant-quality, so don't skip them—trust me, they make all the difference.
This salad keeps beautifully—3-4 days in the fridge if stored in an airtight container. The croutons stay crispy for about 2 days before getting soft, so make fresh ones if serving later. For meal prep, store the croutons separately and toast them fresh before serving. The tuna mixture can be made a day ahead, and the flavors actually improve as the croutons absorb more of that zesty mayo. Perfect for packing in bento boxes or serving at picnics—just add some crackers or their signature buns on the side.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- No-Fuss Assembly: I swear by this recipe because it’s the kind of meal that feels like a hug—just mix the drained tuna with ABC Mayo, a splash of Dijon, lemon juice, and you’re done. The bread does all the heavy lifting by staying fresh and sturdy, so no soggy sandwiches here.
- Bright, Zesty Kick: That lemon juice and Dijon? Total game-changer. It cuts through the richness of the mayo and tuna, giving you a tangy, fresh bite that makes this taste like a fancy charcuterie board instead of a quick lunch.
- Lunchbox Hero: Between us, this is my go-to for meal prep—pack it in the bread for a no-reheat lunch that travels well. Honestly, my kids grab these before their after-school snacks because they’re that good (and it’s cheaper than buying store-bought).
- Budget Meal Magic: Tuna in water is my secret weapon for stretching dollars, and ABC bread? Often on sale or even cheaper than store-brand loaves. You’re getting restaurant-quality flavor for a fraction of the cost, and leftovers keep for days in the fridge.
Step-by-step instructions for Atlanta Bread Company tuna salad
Here's how to make this crowd-pleasing tuna salad with irresistible crispy croutons and bright, zesty flavors.
Prepare the Crispy Croutons
Cut the 1 loaf Atlanta Bread Company Signature Bread into ½-inch cubes (about 4 cups total). Spread them evenly on a rimmed baking sheet and drizzle with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Toss gently until every cube is lightly coated.
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Spread the bread cubes in a single layer, leaving space between them. Bake for 12-15 minutes, stirring halfway through, until they're deep golden brown and crispy. Watch closely—they burn quickly once they reach this color. Let them cool completely before using.
Flake the Tuna and Mix the Base
Drain the 1.5 cans Tuna (in water) thoroughly and gently break it apart with your fingers or a fork until you have flakes (not a paste). Transfer to a large mixing bowl. Add the 0.5 cup Atlanta Bread Company Mayo, 1 tablespoon Dijon Mustard, 1 tablespoon Lemon Juice, 0.5 teaspoon Salt, and 0.25 teaspoon Black Pepper. Mix until the tuna is evenly coated and the flavors begin to meld.
Here's the thing—don't rush this step. The acidity from the lemon juice will start to brighten the mayo immediately. You want everything to come together smoothly, so take your time folding the tuna into the mayo mixture.
Add Fresh Vegetables and Herbs
Finely dice the 1 whole Celery Stalk and 0.25 cup Red Onion (small dice, about ⅛-inch pieces). Add them to the tuna mixture along with 0.5 teaspoon Garlic Powder, 0.25 teaspoon Paprika, and 0.5 teaspoon Dried Dill. Gently fold everything together with a spatula until fully combined.
The celery and onion add that perfect crunch and freshness that balances the richness of the tuna and mayo. The garlic powder and paprika give it subtle depth, while the dill brings that bright, herby note that makes this salad truly special.
Combine with Croutons
Add the cooled crispy croutons to the tuna mixture and gently fold them in until evenly distributed. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—you might want to add a pinch more salt or a splash of lemon juice to balance the flavors.
This is where the magic happens. The contrast between the creamy tuna salad and the crispy croutons creates the perfect texture combination. The croutons should be evenly dispersed throughout, so don't be shy about mixing thoroughly.
Chill and Serve
Transfer the tuna salad to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 days) before serving. The flavors will continue to meld and develop during this time, making each bite even more delicious.
Serve chilled on its own, with crackers, or as a filling for sandwiches. The crispy croutons will maintain their texture perfectly, and the zesty flavors will shine through with every bite. Enjoy your elevated tuna salad experience!
Pro Tips For Making Atlanta Bread Company Tuna Salad
- DRAIN AND PRESS TUNA: Drain the tuna in a fine-mesh strainer, then press it gently with a spoon or your hands to remove excess water—this keeps the salad from turning soggy later. I learned this the hard way after making a tuna salad that tasted more like a tuna soup the next day.
- USE COLD INGREDIENTS: Chill the Atlanta Bread Company mayo and Dijon mustard in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before mixing—cold ingredients blend smoother and prevent the salad from separating. Trust me, your taste buds will notice the difference.
- TOAST THE BREAD: Lightly toast the Signature Bread slices before assembling the sandwich—just 30 seconds in the toaster or under the broiler—so they hold up better and don’t get mushy from the tuna’s moisture. It’s a small step that makes a big difference.
- ADD LEMON JUICE LAST: Mix the lemon juice in right before serving, not when you first combine everything—its bright flavor fades fast, and you don’t want to waste it. A quick squeeze right before eating keeps that fresh, tangy kick.
Best sauces and condiments for this recipe
Zesty Mayo Variations
The Atlanta Bread Company mayo is the star, but you can customize it further. For a spicy kick, mix in 1 teaspoon sriracha or ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper with the Dijon mustard before combining.
If you prefer sweetness, add 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup to balance the tang. For a herb-forward twist, stir in 1 tablespoon finely chopped fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried tarragon—this adds an unexpected but delicious depth. 🌶️
Pickle and Relish Add-Ins
Pickles and relishes take this tuna salad to the next level. Fold in ½ cup finely chopped dill pickles for a tangy crunch, or add 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish for a sweeter contrast.
For a smoky flavor, try 1 tablespoon chopped cornichons or 1 teaspoon smoked paprika mixed into the mayo. These add-ins keep the croutons crispy while adding layers of flavor that stand up to the zesty mayo. 🥒
Hot Sauce Drizzle
Serve this tuna salad with a side of hot sauce for customizable heat. I love Cholula or Crystal Hot Sauce for their smoky, tangy profiles that complement the zesty mayo. Drizzle lightly over the top just before serving so guests can adjust to their preference.
For a creamy heat, mix 1 teaspoon hot sauce directly into the mayo before combining with the tuna. 🔥
Fresh Herb Garnishes
Brighten the dish with fresh herbs at the end. Sprinkle chopped chives or snipped parsley over the top for a pop of color and freshness. For a citrusy note, add zest from ½ lemon or a few thin lemon slices on the side.
Fresh herbs not only look beautiful but also add a vibrant finish that makes every bite feel special. 🌿
Sweet and Tangy Glaze
For a sweet-and-tangy twist, drizzle the salad with a glaze made from 1 tablespoon honey, 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard, and 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar. Warm the mixture gently in a small saucepan until smooth, then drizzle over the tuna salad just before serving.
This glaze adds a glossy finish and balances the richness of the mayo beautifully. 🍯
Nutrition facts
Frequently asked questions
Can I use oil-packed tuna instead of water-packed?
The recipe specifically calls for water-packed tuna to keep the salad light and creamy. Oil-packed tuna will make the mixture greasy and heavy, which can overpower the delicate flavors of the Atlanta Bread Company mayo and fresh herbs. If you must use oil-packed, drain it thoroughly and blot with paper towels to remove excess oil before adding it to the salad.
How do I keep the croutons crispy for longer?
Store the croutons separately in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb any moisture. Toast them fresh in the oven for 3-5 minutes at 350°F before serving to restore their crispiness. For maximum freshness, make them the day you plan to serve the salad. The Atlanta Bread Company's sturdy bread holds up better than regular bread, but even these can soften after 2 days.
What if I don't have Atlanta Bread Company mayo?
Use a high-quality mayo like Hellmann's or Best Foods, but add an extra ½ teaspoon lemon juice and ¼ teaspoon Dijon mustard to compensate for the less tangy flavor. The Atlanta Bread Company mayo has a special brightness that regular mayo lacks, so this adjustment helps recreate that zesty magic. If you're using Greek yogurt as a lighter alternative, add 1 tablespoon extra lemon juice and ½ teaspoon cream cheese for creaminess.
Can I make this tuna salad ahead of time?
This salad actually tastes better when made a day ahead. Store the croutons separately and toast them fresh before serving. The tuna mixture can be refrigerated for up to 2 days in an airtight container. The flavors meld beautifully over time, and the croutons will absorb more of the zesty mayo, making each bite more flavorful. Perfect for meal prep!
What are some creative ways to serve this tuna salad?
Beyond the classic bowl, try serving it as a filling for Atlanta Bread Company's signature buns for tuna melt sandwiches, or spread it on their toasted bread slices for open-faced crostini. For a fancy touch, layer it with sliced avocado and a drizzle of hot sauce on their crusty rolls. You can also serve it in lettuce cups with a side of their garlic aioli for dipping. The possibilities are endless!