Jackfruit Tuna Salad Recipe

If you’re craving a classic deli-style tuna salad but want a fully plant-based option, this jackfruit tuna salad is a game-changer. Most vegan tuna recipes we’ve tried are made with mashed chickpeas, tofu, artichoke hearts, or mock meat so we love to try something different. Jackfruit has become a vegan kitchen staple thanks to its surprisingly meat-like texture. While it’s technically a fruit, young green jackfruit shreds beautifully and absorbs whatever flavors you mix it with.

In this recipe, jackfruit transforms into a creamy, savory salad that’s perfect for sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or scooping onto crackers. It’s quick to make, packed with crunchy veggies, and ready in just about 20 minutes.

If you’re looking for more jackfruit-based recipes, check out these super-satisfying vegan jackfruit tacos with bbq sauce and vegan tamales!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This jackfruit tuna salad is one of those recipes that feels nostalgic while still being fresh and plant-based. Here’s why you’ll love it:

• Quick and easy – Ready in about 20 minutes with minimal prep.
• Great for meal prep – Make a batch and enjoy sandwiches throughout the week.
• Texture just like tuna salad – Shredded jackfruit mimics the flaky consistency surprisingly well.
• Full of flavor – Creamy mayo, tangy mustard, crunchy celery, and dill pickles make every bite delicious.
• Versatile – Serve it as a sandwich, wrap, salad topping, or dip for crackers.

Ingredient Notes

This recipe uses simple ingredients that come together to create the classic flavors and textures of traditional tuna salad. Here’s the main things you’ll need plus any substitutions:

• Young Green Jackfruit Canned – Young jackfruit in water or brine is the key ingredient. When shredded, it creates a flaky texture similar to tuna. Make sure to buy young green jackfruit, not the sweet yellow jackfruit packed in syrup.
• Vegan Mayo – Adds creaminess and richness. Any plant-based mayonnaise works well here. If you prefer a lighter option, you could also use half mayo and half unsweetened vegan yogurt.
• Yellow Mustard – A small amount of mustard adds tanginess and depth, balancing the creamy mayo.
• Red Onion – Finely diced onion brings sharpness and bite. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute green onions.
• Celery – Celery adds that classic crunchy texture that makes tuna salad so satisfying.
• Dill Pickles – Dill pickles provide saltiness and acidity that really brings the whole salad together. You can also use relish if that’s what you have on hand.
• Cherry Tomatoes – Quartered cherry tomatoes add freshness and a pop of color.

How to Make Jackfruit Tuna Salad

Making this recipe is simple and comes together in just a few easy steps.

Step 1. Prepare the jackfruit: Drain the canned jackfruit and rinse it well to remove any brine. Use your hands to squeeze out as much liquid as possible. Trim away any tough core pieces if needed.

Step 2. Shred the jackfruit: Place the jackfruit in a food processor and pulse about 8–10 quick times until it looks shredded and flaky, similar to tuna. Be careful not to over-blend or it can become too smooth.

Step 3. Mix the salad: Transfer the shredded jackfruit to a medium bowl. Add the vegan mayo, mustard, diced red onion, celery, dill pickle, cherry tomatoes, and black pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.

Step 4. Taste and adjust: Taste the salad and add a pinch of salt if needed.

Step 5. Assemble the sandwiches: Lightly toast the bread. Place a large lettuce leaf on the bottom slice of bread, add a generous scoop of jackfruit tuna salad, and top with the second slice of bread. Slice and enjoy!