Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

Start by gathering all your ingredients. Drain the canned tuna thoroughly by pressing the lid firmly to remove excess water. Finely dice the red onion, celery, and cucumber, and chop the parsley and dill. If using a hard-boiled egg or avocado, prepare those now as well.

Step 2: Mix the Dressing

In a large mixing bowl, combine the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Whisk until smooth and creamy. Add garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed—this dressing is where the magic happens!

Step 3: Combine the Tuna and Veggies

Add the drained tuna to the bowl with the dressing. Use a fork to break the tuna into smaller pieces so it mixes evenly. Fold in the red onion, celery, cucumber, capers, parsley, and dill. Stir gently to ensure everything is well-coated in the creamy dressing.

Step 4: Adjust the Flavor

Taste the tuna salad and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more lemon juice for brightness, a pinch of salt for flavor, or paprika for an extra hint of warmth. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Serve your Matthew McConaughey-inspired tuna salad however you like! Scoop it onto a bed of lettuce for a light, refreshing meal, pile it onto whole-grain bread for a hearty sandwich, or spoon it onto crackers for a quick snack. Garnish with extra parsley, dill, or a sprinkle of paprika for presentation.