I love quick, healthy, and protein-packed meals, and this Cottage Cheese and Tuna Salad is one of my favorites.

The creamy texture of cottage cheese pairs perfectly with flaky tuna, creating a dish that is delicious, satisfying, and incredibly easy to make.

Whether you’re looking for a light lunch, a post-workout meal, or a healthy snack, this salad is an excellent choice.

It’s high in protein, low in carbs, and full of fresh flavors, making it the perfect guilt-free meal.

Perfect for lunches, picnics, or a quick dinner, you can whip this up in no time and feel satisfied without the heaviness.

This salad is not only quick to make but also versatile. Add your favorite vegetables, herbs, or spices to customize it to your liking.

It’s a great way to use up leftover ingredients in your fridge while enjoying a dish that’s both nutritious and flavorful.

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Here’s Why You’ll Love My Cottage Cheese and Tuna Salad

This salad is rich in protein, packed with nutrients, and incredibly creamy without needing mayo.

The combination of cottage cheese and tuna makes it both light and filling, perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch.

It’s low-carb, naturally gluten-free, and can be customized with your favorite veggies and seasonings.

Plus, it takes less than 10 minutes to prepare, making it one of the easiest healthy meals you can make!

Ingredients That Bring Flavor

The Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is a delightful medley of different ingredients that come together to create a satisfying dish.

At the heart of the salad is creamy cottage cheese, which not only adds a rich texture but also boosts the protein content.

Flaky tuna brings a savory element, making this salad both filling and flavorful.

Diced celery, bell pepper, and red onion contribute a colorful crunch, providing a refreshing contrast to the creaminess of the cottage cheese.

You can easily tailor the salad by including your favorite vegetables or fresh herbs, making it a versatile option for any meal.

Preparation in Minutes

One of the best aspects of this Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is its simplicity. In just 10 minutes, you can have a vibrant salad ready to enjoy.

Start by combining the drained tuna with cottage cheese and your choice of diced vegetables in a mixing bowl.

If you want to add a little extra flavor, whisk together some mayonnaise and lemon juice. Pour this dressing over the tuna mixture and stir until everything is well combined.

A dash of salt and pepper can be added to elevate the taste further.

A Balanced Meal

This salad is not just easy to prepare but also a well-balanced meal. With approximately 30 grams of protein and only 8 grams of fat per serving, it offers a nutritious option without the heaviness often associated with traditional salads.

The blend of cottage cheese and tuna provides a solid protein punch, while the vegetables add essential vitamins and minerals.

This means you can feel satisfied and energized after enjoying this dish.

Serving Suggestions

This salad is delicious on its own, but it also pairs well with whole-grain crackers, fresh cucumber slices, or a side of avocado toast.

Serve it on a bed of leafy greens, in a lettuce wrap, or as a sandwich filling for a more substantial meal.

If you want something heartier, enjoy it with a side of quinoa, brown rice, or roasted sweet potatoes.

You can also garnish the salad with fresh herbs like dill or parsley, adding a pop of color and enhancing the overall flavor profile.

This simple touch can elevate the dish from everyday food to something a bit more special.

Perfect for Any Occasion

This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad stands out as an ideal dish for various occasions, be it a picnic, a casual lunch, or a quick dinner at home.

It’s refreshing qualities make it a wonderful option during warm weather, and its protein-rich nature ensures it will keep you feeling full.

Moreover, it’s a fantastic way to use up any leftover vegetables you might have in the fridge. The flexibility of this dish allows for creativity, enabling you to experiment with different ingredients based on your preferences.

A Dish to Enjoy

Ultimately, the Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is easy to make, deliciously satisfying, and visually appealing.

Whether you’re looking for a nutritious meal or a quick snack, this salad checks all the boxes. The combination of creamy cottage cheese, flaky tuna, and crunchy vegetables will surely become a favorite in your recipe rotation.

With its light and inviting nature, this salad is sure to refresh your palate and provide a nourishing meal that feels good to eat at any time of the day.

Tips for the Best Cottage Cheese and Tuna Salad

  • Use full-fat cottage cheese for the creamiest and most satisfying texture.
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  • Drain the tuna well to prevent excess moisture from making the salad watery.
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  • Chill for 5–10 minutes after mixing to allow the flavors to blend.
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  • Add extra crunch with diced celery, cucumbers, or bell peppers.
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  • Want a spicy kick? Add a dash of red pepper flakes or a drizzle of hot sauce.
Refreshing Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad
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Refreshing Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad

Recipe by JoanneCourse: Lunch, SnackCuisine: American / Healthy EatingDifficulty: Easy
Servings

2

servings
Prep time

10

minutes
Cooking timeminutes
Calories per serving

250

kcal

This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is a delightful combination of flaky tuna, creamy cottage cheese, and fresh veggies. The result is a refreshing, protein-rich salad that’s perfect for a light meal. You’ll appreciate the balance of flavors and the creamy texture that makes this dish stand out.

Ingredients

  • 1 cup cottage cheese (full-fat recommended)

  • 1 can (5 ounces) tuna, drained

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for richness)

  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder

  • ½ teaspoon onion powder

  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

  • 2 tablespoons chopped celery (optional, for crunch)

  • 2 tablespoons chopped red onion (optional, for flavor)

  • 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)

Directions

  • Prepare the Ingredients:
  • Drain the tuna thoroughly to remove excess liquid.
  • Chop celery, red onion, and parsley (if using).
  • Mix the Salad:
  • In a bowl, combine cottage cheese, tuna, olive oil, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, black pepper, and lemon juice.
  • Stir well until everything is evenly mixed.
  • Add Fresh Ingredients:
  • Fold in chopped celery, red onion, and parsley for extra crunch and flavor.
  • Serve & Enjoy:
  • Serve immediately or refrigerate for 5–10 minutes to allow flavors to develop.
  • Garnish with extra parsley or chives before serving.

Notes

  • Make it dairy-free by using plant-based cottage cheese.
  • For a Mediterranean twist, add diced cucumbers, olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese.
  • Want more protein? Add a hard-boiled egg, chopped, into the mix.
  • For a creamy twist, blend the cottage cheese before mixing for a smoother consistency.

Storage and Warming of Leftovers

  • Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 2 days.
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  • No Freezing: Cottage cheese and tuna do not freeze well.
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  • Make-Ahead Tip: Prep the ingredients ahead and mix just before serving for the freshest taste.
A bowl of Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad with tuna, cottage cheese, and diced vegetables, garnished with herbs, on a wooden table with crackers.