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Jenna Ewing

Super Chef & Mom

I’m Jenna, a busy mom who finds joy in the kitchen and loves sharing simple, family-friendly recipes made for real life. My goal is to make everyday meals feel approachable, enjoyable, and stress-free.

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Creamy Cranberry Apple Tuna Salad Bites

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Prep Time

15 Minutes

Cooking Time

0

Servings

1 (makes about 8–10 bites)

A sweet, savory, and protein-packed twist on classic tuna salad! These vibrant bites are served over crisp apple slices with creamy Brie and fresh lettuce for the ultimate combo of crunchy, creamy, and delicious. Perfect for a snack, light lunch, or as a crowd-pleasing party appetizer, they strike the perfect balance between indulgent and nourishing.

Why You’ll Love These Tuna Salad Bites

This isn’t your average tuna salad. By combining lean, protein-rich tuna with crunchy celery, tangy cranberries, and crisp apples, you get a refreshing balance of flavors and textures. The creamy base of Greek yogurt and mayo keeps it light yet satisfying, while Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and honey bring just the right amount of tang and sweetness.

Layering the tuna salad on crisp apple slices with Brie cheese and lettuce takes this recipe to the next level. Each bite is crunchy, creamy, and perfectly portioned — ideal for entertaining or when you just want something fun and different for lunch.

Equipment

  • Mixing bowl
  • Fork (for flaking tuna)
  • Knife & cutting board
  • Measuring cups & spoons

Ingredients

Creamy Cranberry Apple Tuna Salad Bites

  • 2 cans tuna (43g protein total)
  • ¼ cup diced celery
  • ¼ cup diced red onion
  • ¼ cup diced apple
  • ¼ cup dried cranberries
  • ½ cup Greek yogurt
  • ½ cup mayo
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • Splash of apple cider vinegar
  • Drizzle of honey
  • Salt & pepper, to taste
  • Brie cheese slices (for layering)
  • Crisp apple slices (as the base)
  • Fresh lettuce leaves

Instructions

  • Step 1: Prepare the tuna
    Drain the canned tuna and add to a mixing bowl. Flake it apart with a fork until light and crumbly.
  • Step 2: Add the mix-ins
    Stir in the diced celery, red onion, apple, and dried cranberries. These add crunch, sweetness, and a pop of flavor.
  • Step 3: Make it creamy
    In the same bowl, add Greek yogurt, mayo, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, and a drizzle of honey. Mix until everything is well combined and creamy.
  • Step 4: Season
    Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. For more tang, add a little extra vinegar; for more sweetness, drizzle in more honey.
  • Step 5: Assemble the bites
    On a serving platter, arrange crisp apple slices. Top each slice with a thin piece of Brie cheese, a small lettuce leaf, and a scoop of the tuna salad.
  • Step 6: Serve immediately
    Enjoy these bites fresh for the best crunch and flavor.

Special Notes

  • 🍏 Apple Tip – Use crisp, sweet apples like Honeycrisp or Fuji. Slice right before serving to prevent browning.
  • 🧀 Cheese Swap – Try goat cheese for tang or sharp cheddar for boldness.
  • 🌰 Extra Texture – Add chopped walnuts or pecans for crunch.
  • 🥗 Meal Prep – Make the tuna salad up to 2 days in advance, but slice apples fresh before assembling.
  • 🌿 Fresh Herbs – Stir in chopped parsley or dill for a herby flavor boost.

Serving Ideas

  • Appetizer Tray: Arrange on a platter with extra apple slices and nuts for entertaining.
  • Light Lunch: Pair with a side salad for a refreshing, protein-rich meal.
  • Party Platter: Make mini versions for bite-sized hors d’oeuvres at gatherings.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

  • Make Ahead: Prepare the tuna salad up to 2 days in advance and store covered in the refrigerator.
  • Refrigerate: Keep assembled tuna salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
  • Fresh Assembly: Slice apples just before serving for best texture and color.
  • Browning Prevention: Toss apple slices lightly in lemon juice if prepping early.

Nutrition Breakdown (per serving – approximate, based on 8 bites)

  • Calories: 220
  • Protein: 19g
  • Fat: 10g
  • Carbohydrates: 14g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Net Carbs: 12g

Note: Nutrition will vary depending on cheese choice and apple variety.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dairy-free?

Yes. Omit the Brie or use a dairy-free cheese alternative. Replace Greek yogurt and mayo with avocado or a dairy-free yogurt.

What’s the best apple for this recipe?

Honeycrisp and Fuji are ideal for sweetness and crunch, but Granny Smith works well if you prefer a tart bite.

Can I use canned chicken instead of tuna?

Absolutely. Canned chicken is a great substitute and keeps the same creamy texture.

How do I keep the apples from browning?

If prepping ahead, lightly toss apple slices in lemon juice before assembling.

Final Thoughts

These Creamy Cranberry Apple Tuna Salad Bites are everything you want in a snack or appetizer — crunchy, creamy, sweet, savory, and packed with protein.

They’re quick to prepare, visually impressive, and versatile enough for meal prep, light lunches, or entertaining.

👉 Serve them fresh, dress them up for parties, or keep them simple for an easy, wholesome bite.

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