If you’re searching for a fresh, vibrant salad that’s as nutritious as it is flavorful, you’ve just found your new go-to. This Tuna and White Bean Salad with Lemon and Dill Recipe brings together tender white beans, flaky tuna, and a tangy lemon-dill dressing that bursts with brightness in every bite. It’s perfect for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even something impressive to share with friends when you want to keep things simple yet unforgettable on the plate.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a top view of several small white bowls and two clear glass bowls arranged on a white marbled surface. The largest clear bowl at the bottom right is filled with fresh, dark green spinach leaves with a smooth texture. Next to it, a slightly smaller clear bowl contains light beige cooked beans, smooth and plump. Above that, a medium clear bowl is filled with flaked pink tuna with a soft texture. Surrounding these are small white bowls holding finely chopped purple onions, small green capers, fresh green dill, thin lemon slices, brown mustard, black pepper, salt, minced garlic, and three bowls with different yellow oils or liquid ingredients, all evenly spaced. The clean and simple arrangement highlights the fresh ingredients in bright natural lighting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Tuna and White Bean Salad with Lemon and Dill Recipe is in its simplicity—and each ingredient plays a starring role in flavor and texture. From the creamy beans to the fresh herbs, every element combines to create a perfectly balanced dish.

2 Tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adds a zesty brightness that wakes up the entire salad.
2 cloves garlic (pressed): Provides a subtle, savory kick without overpowering the other flavors.
1 tsp Dijon mustard: Brings a slight tang and helps emulsify the dressing.
½ tsp kosher salt: Enhances all the other tastes and keeps the salad well-seasoned.
½ tsp honey: Balances the acidity with a gentle touch of sweetness.
Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds warmth and depth.
4-5 Tbsp olive oil: Smooths out the dressing with a fruity richness and a luxurious mouthfeel.
2 15-ounce cans white beans (drained and rinsed): The hearty base offering creaminess and protein.
12 ounce tuna in water (drained): Brings in a flaky texture and savory flavor, making the salad extra satisfying.
2 tsp capers (drained): Lend a punch of briny tang that livens up the mix.
2 Tbsp fresh dill (chopped): Infuses a fresh, aromatic herbal note essential to this recipe.
⅛ cup red onion (chopped): Adds a crisp bite and subtle sweetness.
½ tsp kosher salt: For seasoning the tuna and beans to perfection.
Black pepper (to taste): To finish off with a bit of spice.
6 cups baby spinach (stems removed): A fresh, leafy green foundation that adds color and nutrition.
1 lemon (thinly sliced for serving): For garnish and an extra splash of citrus if desired.

How to Make Tuna and White Bean Salad with Lemon and Dill Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Dressing

Start by combining the fresh lemon juice, pressed garlic, Dijon mustard, kosher salt, honey, and black pepper in a small bowl. Whisk these ingredients until they meld into a smooth mixture that promises a perfect balance of tangy and sweet flavors.

Step 2: Incorporate Olive Oil

Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while continuing to whisk vigorously. This step is key to creating a silky dressing that will coat your beans and tuna beautifully, enhancing their natural flavors rather than masking them.

Step 3: Mix Salad Base

In a large bowl, combine the drained white beans, flaked tuna, chopped capers, fresh dill, and red onion. Sprinkle with the second measure of kosher salt and pepper, then gently fold everything together. This gentle mixing keeps the beans intact and preserves the flaky integrity of the tuna for textural contrast.

Step 4: Add the Dressing

Pour your freshly whisked dressing over the bean and tuna mixture. Using a spoon, fold the dressing through evenly, making sure every bite will be bursting with lovely lemon and dill notes.

Step 5: Assemble the Salad

Divide the baby spinach across four shallow salad bowls, placing approximately 1 ½ cups in each. Spoon equal portions of the tuna and bean salad atop the spinach, forming a colorful and inviting presentation.

Step 6: Final Touches

Garnish each bowl with a thin slice of lemon. This not only adds a pop of color but invites each diner to squeeze a little extra lemon juice on their salad, customizing acidity to taste.

How to Serve Tuna and White Bean Salad with Lemon and Dill Recipe

The image shows a clear glass bowl filled with a fresh tuna and white bean salad. The bottom layer is bright green spinach leaves, neatly lined to form a base. On top is a chunky mixture of light beige white beans, flaked pink tuna, and small bits of red onion, creating a textured and hearty layer. A thin slice of lemon with a vibrant yellow peel and translucent pale yellow inside leans against the salad on the right side of the bowl. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, with a few whole black peppercorns scattered nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Enhance your salad by sprinkling extra fresh dill or adding a few capers on top for bursts of flavor. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil just before serving also adds a beautiful sheen and richness that elevates the entire dish.

Side Dishes

This Tuna and White Bean Salad with Lemon and Dill Recipe pairs wonderfully with crusty artisan bread or warm pita to scoop up every last bit. For something more filling, consider serving alongside roasted vegetables or a light quinoa pilaf to make a complete meal that won’t weigh you down.

Creative Ways to Present

For a creative twist, present this salad in lettuce cups or hollowed-out avocado halves for a visually stunning appetizer. You could also serve it layered in clear glasses with baby spinach on the bottom and the bean salad layered on top for an elegant, modern presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover Tuna and White Bean Salad with Lemon and Dill Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Because the salad contains delicate tuna and fresh herbs, it’s best enjoyed fresh but will still taste delightful the next day once chilled.

Freezing

Due to the fresh lemon juice and tuna, this salad does not freeze well, as freezing can alter the texture of the beans and fish. For the best experience, enjoy all of it fresh or within a couple of days of making it.

Reheating

This salad is best served cold or at room temperature, so there is no need to reheat it. If you prefer it slightly warmer, allow it to sit at room temperature for 15–20 minutes before serving for the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water-packed tuna?

Absolutely! While water-packed tuna keeps the salad lighter, oil-packed tuna will add richness and extra flavor. Just be mindful of the additional oil to avoid the salad becoming too heavy.

Is it okay to substitute dried dill for fresh dill in this recipe?

Fresh dill is highly recommended for that bright, distinctive flavor, but if you only have dried dill, use about one-third the amount and add it sparingly since dried herbs are more concentrated.

What type of white beans work best in this salad?

Cannellini or Great Northern beans are perfect due to their creamy texture and mild flavor, which complement the tuna without overpowering the dish.

Can I prepare the salad without garlic?

If you’re not a fan of raw garlic, you can omit it or substitute with a small amount of garlic powder. Just be careful not to add too much as it’s more potent in powdered form.

Is this Tuna and White Bean Salad suitable for meal prepping?

Yes, it’s a great option for meal prep! Just keep the dressing separate until ready to serve to prevent the spinach from wilting, and combine everything just before eating.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so satisfying about a salad that feels fresh, wholesome, and effortlessly delicious all at once. I truly hope you enjoy making and savoring this Tuna and White Bean Salad with Lemon and Dill Recipe as much as I do. It’s a wonderful way to bring brightness and ease to your table, no matter the occasion!