Atlanta Bread Company Tuna Salad Recipe: Classic Dill-Pickled Crunch in 15 Minutes

This Atlanta Bread Company tuna salad recipe transforms classic flavors into a restaurant-worthy dish with one unexpected ingredient—their signature bread as the base. The secret lies in using their crusty, slightly sweet loaf instead of traditional crackers, creating a texture that's crispy yet tender with every bite.

I developed this recipe after realizing how much better tuna salad tastes when paired with their signature bread cubes, which hold up perfectly without turning mushy.

The magic happens in the 15-minute assembly—fresh dill, tangy pickles, and crunchy celery come together with canned tuna and mayo for a salad that's creamy, bright, and packed with texture.

What makes this version stand out is the dill-pickle crunch, where pickles add a sharp contrast to the richness of the tuna, while the bread cubes provide a sturdy base that doesn't dissolve like crackers often do.

This isn't just tuna salad; it's a textural experience that keeps every bite interesting.

By the time you're done, you'll have a tuna salad that's classic yet elevated—perfect for sandwiches, crackers, or even as a standalone dish with fresh veggies on the side.

The Atlanta Bread Company's loaf adds a subtle sweetness that balances the saltiness of the tuna and the acidity of the pickles, making this recipe a game-changer for lunch prep. Let's get started!

This recipe works best with freshly baked Atlanta Bread Company bread, but any sturdy sourdough or crusty white bread will do in a pinch. The key is toasting the bread cubes lightly before mixing them in—this ensures they stay crispy and don't turn soggy.

Serve immediately or store in the fridge for up to 3 days, though I doubt it'll last that long.

Ingredients for atlanta bread company tuna salad

Classic tuna salad gets a crispy, crunchy twist using Atlanta Bread Company's signature loaf.

The bread is non-negotiable here—Atlanta Bread Company's crusty loaf delivers that perfect balance of sweetness and crunch. If you can't find it, sourdough or a sturdy white bread will work, but avoid soft varieties like brioche. Toast the cubes lightly in olive oil until golden—this ensures they stay crispy and don't turn soggy. For the tuna, Starkist or Wild Planet brands are reliable, but any canned tuna in water will do. The key is draining it thoroughly to avoid a watery salad. Fresh dill is a must for that bright, herby flavor—dried just won't cut it here.

No fresh dill? Dried dill at one-third the amount works in a pinch, but you'll miss that vibrant freshness. Swap the dill pickle chips for regular pickle chips or even chopped fresh pickles if needed. For a lighter option, reduce the mayo to 1/4 cup and add an extra 1 tbsp of olive oil. The celery adds crunch, but if you're short on time, pre-chopped celery from the store is fine—just give it a quick rinse. The red onion adds a sharp bite, but if you prefer milder flavor, substitute with green onion or shallot. For extra tang, add a splash of capers or relish.

This salad keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days, though it's best enjoyed fresh. Store it in an airtight container with a layer of plastic wrap pressed directly on the surface to prevent the bread from absorbing moisture. For extra crispiness, toast fresh bread cubes and fold them in just before serving. The flavors meld even better overnight, so if you're prepping ahead, make it the night before—it'll taste like you spent hours on it. Serve with crackers, on sandwiches, or as a standalone dish with fresh veggies.

Step-by-step instructions for atlanta bread company tuna salad recipe

This classic tuna salad comes together quickly with the perfect balance of tangy, crunchy, and fresh flavors.

Preheat your oven to 350°F and line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Cut the Atlanta Bread Company Bread into 1-inch cubes—about 4 cups total. Spread them evenly on the prepared sheet and toast for 8-10 minutes until golden brown and crisp. Watch for the edges to turn a rich, toasted color—this adds texture that holds up perfectly to the tuna salad.

Real talk: Don't skip toasting the bread. The crispy texture contrasts beautifully with the creamy tuna mixture and prevents a soggy sandwich. Once toasted, let the cubes cool completely before assembling. This prevents any excess moisture from steaming the bread when you add the tuna salad later.

In a large mixing bowl, combine the drained 2 cans canned tuna in water with the 0.5 cup mayonnaise, 1 tbsp Dijon mustard, and 2 tbsp lemon juice. Use a fork or rubber spatula to break up the tuna into smaller pieces while incorporating the wet ingredients. This creates a smooth, cohesive base without any fishy chunks.

Next, add the 0.5 tsp salt and 0.25 tsp black pepper, mixing well to distribute the seasoning evenly. The lemon juice brightens the flavors while the mustard adds a subtle tang that balances the richness of the mayo. Don't rush this step—proper mixing ensures every bite has consistent texture and flavor.

Fold in the 0.25 cup chopped fresh dill, 1 cup finely chopped celery sticks, and 0.25 cup finely diced red onion using gentle motions to preserve the integrity of the vegetables. These ingredients add freshness and texture that cut through the creaminess of the tuna mixture.

Finally, crush the 0.5 cup dill pickle chips between your fingers or with a rolling pin to create a fine crumble. Sprinkle these over the mixture and gently fold them in. The pickle chips add a delightful tangy crunch that makes this tuna salad uniquely Southern. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed—you may want to add a pinch more salt or lemon juice to balance the flavors.

Transfer the tuna salad mixture to a serving bowl and gently stir in the 1 tsp olive oil. This step adds a subtle richness that enhances the overall flavor profile. The olive oil also helps bind the ingredients together, creating a cohesive texture that's neither too wet nor too dry.

Drizzle the assembled tuna salad with any excess lemon juice or olive oil if desired, and give it one final taste. Serve immediately with the toasted Atlanta Bread Company Bread cubes. For an elevated presentation, arrange the bread cubes on a platter and spoon the tuna salad over them, allowing guests to create their own open-faced sandwiches.

Serving suggestions for this recipe

Sandwich Perfection

Use this tuna salad to create the ultimate Atlanta Bread Company sandwich—simply spread the mixture on lightly toasted slices of their signature loaf. For extra crunch, add a layer of avocado slices or sliced cucumber before closing.

I love adding a sprinkle of everything bagel seasoning on top for a savory kick. 🥪

For a grilled twist, butter the bread first and grill in a cast-iron skillet over medium heat until golden. The caramelized crust adds a whole new dimension to the classic combo. Serve with a side of pickle spears to cut through the richness.

Cracker Platter

Arrange the toasted Atlanta Bread Company cubes on a platter alongside water crackers and pretzel crisps for a mix of textures. Spoon the tuna salad into small bowls or directly onto the platter for easy grazing.

Add cherry tomatoes, radishes, and sliced bell peppers for a fresh, vibrant contrast. 🥒

For a festive touch, drizzle the platter with extra virgin olive oil and sprinkle with flaky sea salt and black pepper. This setup is perfect for parties or a light lunch with friends—every bite is a mix of crunch, creaminess, and freshness.

Open-Faced Bites

Toast thick slices of Atlanta Bread Company bread until crispy, then top with a generous spoonful of tuna salad. Add sliced avocado, baby spinach, and a drizzle of balsamic glaze for a restaurant-worthy bite. These make for an easy appetizer or lunchable that’s always a crowd-pleaser. 🍽️

For a spicy kick, top with crumbled bacon and a dash of hot sauce. The smoky, tangy flavors pair perfectly with the creamy tuna and crispy bread. Serve with a side of cool ranch dressing for dipping.

Salad Topper

Use this tuna salad as a protein-packed topping for mixed greens like arugula or spring mix. Toss the greens with lemon vinaigrette, arrange on a plate, and spoon the tuna salad over the top.

Add toasted nuts or seeds for extra crunch and nutrition. This makes a light yet satisfying lunch or dinner. 🥗

For a Mediterranean twist, add cherry tomatoes, kalamata olives, and feta cheese to the salad base. The bright, tangy flavors balance the richness of the tuna beautifully—it’s like a vacation in a bowl!

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