These easy Dill Pickle Tuna Cucumber Boats are crisp, cool, and loaded with tangy dill pickle flavor in every bite. They make a fresh, simple lunch that’s lighter and way more fun to each than a boring tuna sandwich.

Jump to:

• ❤️ Why You'll Love This Dill Pickle Tuna Cucumber Boats
• 🛒 Ingredients Dill Pickle Tuna Cucumber Boats
• 🔪 How to Make Tuna Salad Cucumber Boats
• 💡 Tips
• ☑️ Storage Instructions
• 🍴 What to Serve with Tuna Boats
• 🔄 Substitutions and Additions
• Can I Use Regular Cucumbers Instead of English Cucumbers?
• Why is My Tuna Salad Watery?
• How Do I Keep the Cucumber Boats From Getting Soggy?
• Can I Use Dried Dill Instead of Fresh?
• 🍽️ More Easy Lunch Recipes

❤️ Why You'll Love This Dill Pickle Tuna Cucumber Boats

• Crisp refreshing cucumbers
• Filled with dill pickle flavored tuna salad
• Makes the perfect easy lunch
• Kid friendly

This simple Dill Pickle Tuna Cucumber Boats are a refreshing option when you craving something light but packed with flavor. Crisp cucumbers are filled with a creamy tuna salad that’s tangy from dill pickles, brightened up with red onion, and finished with fresh chopped dill. They’re easy, cool, and have that perfect balance between crunchy and creamy.

I usually prep the tuna salad in advance so it’s ready to go. Then when it’s time to eat, I just slice the cucumbers and fill them up. This help keep the boats super fresh and crisp. Whether it’s lunch on the go or a quick afternoon snack, these cucumber boats always hit the spot.

If you have cucumbers leftover after making these tuna boats, be sure and try this yummy Cucumber Salad.

🛒 Ingredients Dill Pickle Tuna Cucumber Boats

• English cucumbers: Chilled and unpeeled gives you the best crunch.
• Tuna: Drained and flaked with a fork for that perfect texture.
• Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and brings everything together.
• Sour cream: Lightens up the mayo and adds a nice tangy balance.
• Red onion: Just a little for crunch and flavor, finely minced.
• Dill pickles: Chopped small so they mix easily and give you that briny punch.
• Pickle juice: A splash goes a long way to amp up the flavor.
• Fresh dill: Gives the salad that signature herby flavor.
• Garlic salt: Adds seasoning without needing multiple spices.
• Ground black pepper: Just a pinch for a little kick.

*Exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below.

🥣 Recommended Tools

• Mixing bowl
• Whisk

🔪 How to Make Tuna Salad Cucumber Boats

Cut the cucumbers in half width-wise, then cut each half each in half length-wise.
Scoop out the seeds, making room for the tuna salad, then set them aside.

Add the mayonnaise, sour cream, pickle juice, garlic salt and ground black pepper to a mixing bowl.

Whisk to combine.

Drain the tuna and break it apart with a fork.

Add the tuna, chopped pickles, red onion and fresh chopped dill over the dressing.

Gently toss to combine.

Spoon the tuna salad into the cucumbers and serve.

💡 Tips

• Use English cucumbers for best texture. The thin skin and small seeds make them ideal for stuffing and snacking.
• A small spoon or melon baller works great for scooping out the center without tearing the sides.
• Don’t overfill the boats. A heaping spoonful per piece is just right and keeps things tidy.
• Chill your cucumbers before stuffing for extra crunch and a refreshing bite.
• Give the tuna a taste before filling the boats. Add extra pickle juice, salt, or dill if needed.

☑️ Storage Instructions

For best results, I like to store leftover tuna salad separately in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Then, I just assemble the cucumber boats just before serving.

🍴 What to Serve with Tuna Boats

These cucumber boats are a light meal on it's on. To make it a heartier option, serve them with one of these tasty salads.

• Greek Quinoa Salad
• Pickled Beet Salad
• Greek Pasta Salad
• Easy Italian Pasta Salad

🔄 Substitutions and Additions

• Eggs: Add a chopped hard-boiled egg to make it extra filling.

• Cheese: Mix in a handful of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy twist.

• Onion: Swap red onion for green onion if you want something a little milder.

• Mustard: Stir in a small spoonful of Dijon mustard for a bit of tangy depth.

• Crunch: Add diced celery or bell pepper for more crunch and color.

• Yogurt: Use Greek yogurt instead of sour cream for a lighter option.

Can I Use Regular Cucumbers Instead of English Cucumbers?

Yes, just peel them first and scoop out the seeds to make enough room for the filling.

Why is My Tuna Salad Watery?

It’s likely from extra moisture in the tuna or veggies. Be sure to drain everything well before mixing.

How Do I Keep the Cucumber Boats From Getting Soggy?

The best way is to store the cucumbers and tuna salad separately until you’re ready to eat.

Can I Use Dried Dill Instead of Fresh?

Yes, but use about 1 teaspoon instead of a tablespoon

🍽️ More Easy Lunch Recipes

• Greek Tuna Stuffed Avocados
• Ham Salad
• Greek Salmon Salad
• Boom Boom Salmon Burgers
• Keto Sloppy Joes