The Ultimate Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad Recipe: Quick, Easy & Nutritious – Lunch Just Got Better!

The Best Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad Recipe (High Protein, No Mayo!)

A protein-packed twist on classic tuna fish salad - creamy, healthy, and incredibly satisfying!

Why This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad Will Become Your New Favorite

If you're looking for a high protein tuna salad that's creamy without mayo, this cottage cheese tuna recipe is your answer. With nearly 30 grams of protein per serving, this no mayo tuna salad is perfect for meal prep, healthy lunches, or a quick post-workout snack. The combination of protein cottage cheese with tuna creates an unexpectedly delicious creamy tuna salad that's both light and satisfying.

Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad Recipe

Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 10 mins | Servings: 2-3

Ingredients

• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained (canned tuna recipes staple)
• 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese (protein cottage cheese base)
• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (for extra creaminess)
• 1/4 cup diced red onion
• 1/4 cup diced celery (for crunch)
• 2 tbsp chopped fresh dill or parsley
• 1 tbsp lemon juice (brightens flavors)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the base: In a large bowl, combine cottage cheese and Greek yogurt. Mix until smooth.
2. Add flavor: Stir in lemon juice, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix in vegetables: Fold in diced red onion, celery, and fresh herbs.
4. Combine with tuna: Gently fold in drained tuna, breaking up large chunks but keeping some texture.
5. Chill and serve: For best flavor, refrigerate for 30 minutes before serving.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

• Calories: 220
• Protein: 28g (making this a true high protein tuna meal)
• Carbs: 8g
• Fat: 7g
• Fiber: 1g

The Benefits of Cottage Cheese in Tuna Salad

This no mayo tuna recipe uses cottage cheese for several health benefits:

• Higher protein: Cottage cheese adds 14g protein per 1/2 cup versus mayo's 0g
• Lower calories: About half the calories of traditional mayo-based versions
• More nutrients: Provides calcium, phosphorus, and B vitamins
• Better texture: Creates a creamy yet light consistency perfect for cottage cheese bowls

Pro Tips for Perfect Protein Tuna Salad

• Drain tuna well to prevent watery salad
• Use full-fat cottage cheese for extra creaminess if not counting calories
• Let it chill - flavors meld beautifully after 30 minutes in fridge
• Try different herbs - dill, parsley, or chives all work well
• Make it a tuna rice bowl by serving over warm rice with veggies

Creative Serving Suggestions

This versatile easy tuna salad can be enjoyed many ways:

5 Delicious Ways to Serve Your Tuna Fish Salad

1. Classic Sandwich: On whole grain bread with lettuce and tomato
2. Protein Bowl: As part of cottage cheese bowls with avocado and cucumber
3. Lettuce Wraps: For a low-carb healthy tuna recipes option
4. Stuffed Avocado: Scoop into halved avocados for extra healthy fats
5. Crackers or Cucumber Slices: Perfect for tuna lunch ideas at work

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this dairy-free?

For a dairy-free version of this no mayo tuna salad, substitute the cottage cheese with mashed avocado or dairy-free yogurt. The texture will be different but still delicious.

How long does this tuna salad last in the fridge?

This protein tuna salad stays fresh for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container, making it perfect for tuna lunch ideas throughout the week.

Can I add other ingredients?

Absolutely! Try these tuna salad ideas:

• Diced apples for sweetness
• Chopped nuts for crunch
• Halved grapes for bursts of flavor
• Diced pickles for tang

More Healthy Tuna Recipes to Try

If you love this best tuna salad recipe, you might enjoy these other healthy tuna recipes:

• Tuna Noodle Salad with whole wheat pasta
• Mediterranean-style tuna rice bowl with olives and feta
• Spicy canned tuna recipes with sriracha and lime
• Avocado-stuffed tuna fish salad boats

Why This Becomes Your Go-To Recipe

This cottage cheese tuna salad solves three common problems with traditional versions:

1. Healthier: No mayo means less fat and more protein
2. More satisfying: The high protein tuna combo keeps you full longer
3. Versatile: Works in sandwiches, bowls, or as a dip

Whether you're looking for tuna lunch ideas, easy tuna salad options, or creative canned tuna recipes, this protein-packed version with cottage cheese will become your new favorite. The creamy texture, bright flavors, and nutritional benefits make it perfect for anyone seeking healthy tuna recipes that don't sacrifice taste!

Have you tried this recipe? Tag us on social media with your cottage cheese bowls creations! #ProteinTunaSalad #HealthyTunaRecipes