Healthy tuna salad is a light, protein-packed dish that’s just as creamy and flavorful as the classic version—but made with better-for-me ingredients. I love how this recipe keeps all the satisfying textures and taste, while swapping out heavy mayo for lighter, wholesome alternatives. It’s quick, fresh, and perfect for lunch, meal prep, or a no-fuss dinner.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love this recipe because it’s simple, clean, and totally customizable. It gives me all the comfort of a traditional tuna salad, but with a lighter twist that doesn’t weigh me down. It’s perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or eating straight from the bowl. Whether I’m eating healthy or just looking for a satisfying snack, this tuna salad always hits the mark.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
-
Canned tuna (in water, drained)
-
Greek yogurt or mashed avocado (as a mayo alternative)
-
Dijon mustard (for tang)
-
Celery (finely chopped)
-
Red onion (finely chopped)
-
Lemon juice
-
Salt and pepper
-
Fresh herbs (like parsley or dill, optional)
-
Optional: chopped pickles or cucumber for extra crunch
Directions
-
I drain the tuna well and flake it with a fork in a mixing bowl.
-
I stir in Greek yogurt (or avocado) and Dijon mustard until creamy.
-
I add the celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper, mixing until everything is well combined.
-
I taste and adjust the seasoning or mix-ins to get the flavor just right.
-
I serve it chilled in lettuce wraps, on whole grain toast, in a wrap, or on its own.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 2 to 3 servings. It takes me about 10 minutes to prep and mix everything—no cooking needed, just quick and easy.
Variations
Sometimes I add chopped hard-boiled egg for extra protein or throw in some shredded carrots or apple for sweetness and crunch. For a Mediterranean twist, I mix in olives, cherry tomatoes, or feta. I’ve also used hummus instead of yogurt when I want something creamier and dairy-free.
Storage/Reheating
I store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. It tastes even better after the flavors sit for a bit. I don’t recommend freezing it, and there’s no need to reheat—it’s best served cold.
FAQs
Can I use mayo instead of Greek yogurt?
Yes, if I want a classic flavor with a bit more creaminess, I sometimes do half mayo, half Greek yogurt to lighten it up while keeping that familiar taste.
Is this tuna salad good for meal prep?
Definitely. I make a batch at the start of the week and use it in sandwiches, wraps, or on salads. It holds up well in the fridge.
What kind of tuna is best?
I usually go for canned tuna in water for a lighter option, but tuna in olive oil works too if I drain it well. Chunk light or albacore both work great.
How do I make it dairy-free?
I use mashed avocado or dairy-free yogurt instead of Greek yogurt. It still turns out creamy and flavorful.
Can I make it low-carb or keto?
Yes, I serve it in lettuce wraps, cucumber boats, or just eat it by the spoonful. It’s naturally low in carbs when served without bread.
Conclusion
Healthy tuna salad is a quick, delicious way to enjoy a high-protein, nutrient-rich meal that doesn’t sacrifice flavor. I love how easy it is to throw together and how versatile it can be. Whether I’m packing lunch or whipping up a light dinner, this version of tuna salad always leaves me satisfied and energized.
PrintHealthy Tuna Salad
Healthy tuna salad is a creamy, protein-rich dish made with simple, wholesome ingredients like Greek yogurt, fresh veggies, and lemon juice. It’s a lighter take on the classic recipe, perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or meal prep.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2–3 servings
- Category: Lunch, Snack
- Method: Mixing
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 1 can (5–6 oz) tuna in water, drained
- 2–3 tbsp Greek yogurt (or mashed avocado)
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped fresh herbs (parsley or dill)
- Optional: 1 tbsp chopped pickles or cucumber
Instructions
- Drain tuna and flake with a fork in a mixing bowl.
- Stir in Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard until creamy.
- Add celery, red onion, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until combined.
- Fold in herbs or pickles if using. Taste and adjust seasoning.
- Serve chilled in lettuce wraps, on toast, in a sandwich, or enjoy plain.
Notes
- Substitute Greek yogurt with mashed avocado or hummus for dairy-free options.
- Add chopped hard-boiled egg, shredded carrot, or diced apple for variations.
- For Mediterranean flair, mix in olives, cherry tomatoes, or feta cheese.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/3 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 1g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
