Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad

Light, creamy, and packed with protein, this Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is a fresh twist on a classic lunch staple. Blending tender tuna with creamy cottage cheese and crisp veggies, it’s the perfect low-carb, high-protein option for sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or a quick snack. Ready in minutes and full of flavor, this salad is perfect for meal prep or on-the-go meals.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Protein-Packed – Cottage cheese and tuna make it ultra satisfying.
Quick & Easy – Ready in just 10 minutes with no cooking required.
Low-Carb & Keto-Friendly – Great for healthy eating plans.
Meal Prep Friendly – Keeps well in the fridge for several days.
Versatile – Serve in lettuce wraps, sandwiches, or on crackers.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained (in water or olive oil)
• ½ cup cottage cheese (low-fat or full-fat)
• 2 tbsp plain Greek yogurt or mayo (optional, for extra creaminess)
• 1 stalk celery, finely chopped
• 2 tbsp red onion, finely chopped
• 1 tbsp dill pickles or relish (optional)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• ½ tsp garlic powder
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 1 tsp lemon juice
• 1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill, chopped (optional, for garnish)

Tools You’ll Need
Medium mixing bowl
Fork or spoon
Cutting board & knife
Measuring spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Ingredients

1. Drain the tuna well and flake it with a fork in a medium bowl.
2. Finely chop the celery, red onion, and pickles (if using).

Step 2: Mix the Salad

1. To the bowl of tuna, add cottage cheese, Greek yogurt or mayo, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Stir until everything is well combined and creamy.
3. Fold in chopped celery, red onion, and pickles for crunch and flavor.

Step 3: Taste & Adjust

1. Taste your tuna salad and adjust seasoning—add more mustard, lemon juice, or herbs as needed.

Step 4: Serve

1. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or dill.
2. Serve chilled, on toast, in lettuce cups, stuffed in a tomato or avocado, or with whole grain crackers.

Tips for the Best Tuna Salad
Use Good Quality Tuna – Albacore or solid white tuna has the best texture and taste.
Drain Thoroughly – Too much liquid can make the salad watery.
Add Texture – Use crunchy veggies like celery, cucumber, or bell peppers.
Adjust the Creaminess – Add extra yogurt or mayo if you prefer a creamier texture.
Spice It Up – Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce for heat.

Serving Suggestions
Lettuce Wraps – A low-carb, refreshing lunch option.
On Whole Grain Toast – For a hearty open-faced sandwich.
Stuffed Avocados – Scoop into halved avocados for a keto-friendly meal.
With Crackers – A protein-rich snack you can prep ahead.
Tuna Salad Bowl – Serve over greens with cherry tomatoes and cucumbers.

How to Store

Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container for up to 3–4 days. Stir before serving if liquid separates.

Do Not Freeze:
Cottage cheese and tuna do not freeze well together due to texture changes.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use plain yogurt instead of mayo?
   Yes! Greek yogurt adds creaminess and extra protein.
2. Is this recipe low-carb?
   Absolutely. It’s a great option for keto or low-carb diets.
3. What kind of cottage cheese should I use?
   Use small curd for the best texture and full-fat for creaminess, though low-fat works too.
4. Can I make this spicy?
   Yes—add chopped jalapeños, sriracha, or red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
5. Can I add hard-boiled eggs?
   Definitely! Chopped eggs add extra protein and richness.

Final Thoughts
This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is a light, creamy, and protein-rich dish that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re eating clean, packing lunch for work, or looking for a healthy snack, it’s a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again. With endless ways to customize and serve it, this easy tuna salad keeps things fresh and satisfying.

Try it today and let me know your favorite way to enjoy it!

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 0 minutes
Cuisine: American

Nutritional Information (Per Serving – 2 servings total):
Calories: 180 | Protein: 24g | Carbohydrates: 4g | Fat: 7g | Fiber: 0g | Sodium: 430mg

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