Healthy Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad

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If you’re looking for a creamy, protein-packed lunch that’s light, fresh, and totally satisfying, this Healthy Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is a must-try. It takes classic tuna salad and gives it a high-protein twist using cottage cheese in place of mayo, adding a delightful tang and creamy texture without all the fat.

The flavors are vibrant, the prep is effortless, and you can customize it in countless ways—serve it in lettuce cups, pile it on toast, or enjoy it straight from the bowl. Whether you’re eating healthy, watching your carbs, or simply want a no-fuss, nutritious meal, this recipe checks all the boxes.

Why You’ll Love This Healthy Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad

This salad is all about balance. You get the richness of tuna and creaminess of cottage cheese, lightened up with crunchy veggies and a hint of lemon. It’s easy to whip up in under 10 minutes, making it ideal for meal prep or a quick weekday lunch. Plus, it’s gluten-free, low-carb, and packed with omega-3s and calcium. It’s also incredibly filling thanks to its high protein content—no more mid-afternoon hunger crashes.

Can I Use Any Kind of Tuna?

Yes, but choose wisely. I recommend using canned tuna in water for a lighter option, or in olive oil for extra flavor if you’re not too concerned about calories. Solid white albacore gives a firmer texture and cleaner taste, but chunk light tuna is more budget-friendly and still works great in this recipe.

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Ingredients for the Healthy Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad

This protein-packed salad relies on just a handful of fresh, nourishing ingredients. Each one brings something important to the table—whether it’s texture, flavor, or nutrients.

• Canned tuna
  Essential for the base, tuna is rich in protein and omega-3s, making this salad both hearty and healthy.
• Cottage cheese
  Acts as a creamy binder instead of mayo. It lightens up the salad while adding calcium and extra protein.
• Celery
  Adds a crisp, refreshing crunch that balances out the soft texture of the other ingredients.
• Red onion
  Brings a subtle sharpness and beautiful color contrast.
• Dijon mustard
  Lends a little tang and depth, rounding out the creaminess of the cottage cheese.
• Lemon juice
  Brightens everything and ties all the flavors together.
• Salt and black pepper
  Simple but essential for bringing out all the other flavors.
• Fresh parsley
  Optional, but adds a nice herbaceous finish.

How To Make the Healthy Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad

Step 1: Drain and Flake the Tuna

Start by draining your canned tuna thoroughly. Use a fork to break it up in a mixing bowl so it’s light and flaky, ready to absorb the other ingredients.

Step 2: Add the Creamy Base

Spoon in the cottage cheese and give it a good mix. This replaces mayo and adds a fresh twist while still giving you that satisfying creamy texture.

Step 3: Mix in the Crunch

Chop your celery and red onion finely and stir them in. These add texture and a welcome bite to the salad.

Step 4: Brighten the Flavor

Add the Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together until it’s evenly combined and coated in that creamy mixture.

Step 5: Finish with Herbs

Chop some parsley and sprinkle it in for freshness. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.

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How to Serve and Store Healthy Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad

This recipe serves 2 generously or 3 if you’re using it as part of a wrap or sandwich. You can enjoy it right away or let it chill in the fridge for a bit to let the flavors meld. To store, keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. It actually tastes even better the next day.

You can prep it ahead for lunchboxes or enjoy it for a quick protein hit after a workout. Just give it a quick stir before serving if it’s been sitting.

What to Serve With Healthy Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad?

Fresh Lettuce Cups

Spoon the salad into romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a crisp, low-carb wrap.

Whole Grain Toast

Pile it onto a slice of toasted whole grain bread for a heartier bite.

Avocado Halves

Fill halved avocados with tuna salad for a nutrient-dense, satisfying meal.

Crackers or Rice Cakes

Perfect for snacking or a light lunch. Choose whole grain options for more fiber.

Hard-Boiled Eggs

Slice eggs in half and top with a spoonful of tuna salad—great for a high-protein snack plate.

Cucumber Boats

Slice cucumbers lengthwise and scoop out the center, then fill with tuna salad for a refreshing twist.

Pasta or Quinoa Bowl

Add to cooked pasta or quinoa with extra veggies for a well-rounded meal bowl.

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Want More Protein-Packed Lunch Ideas?

If this cottage cheese tuna salad is your kind of lunch, here are more high-protein and satisfying options you’ll love:

• Low Carb Chicken Casserole for a warm and cheesy dinner alternative.
• Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup when you’re craving something cozy but still protein-rich.
• Copycat Starbucks Spinach Egg White Feta Wraps for an easy breakfast-meets-lunch idea.
• Greek Lemon Chicken Soup Avgolemono if you’re in the mood for a citrusy, comforting soup.
• Ground Beef Zucchini Sweet Potato Skillet for a balanced one-pan meal.

Save This Recipe For Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest healthy lunch board so you can come back to it anytime.

Let me know in the comments how you served your tuna salad—did you use crackers, lettuce cups, or go full sandwich mode?

I love hearing your twists and additions. Have questions? I’m here to help make healthy eating easier and tastier.

Explore beautifully curated health-boosting meals on Luna Meals on Pinterest and discover your new go-to for feeling great!

Conclusion

This Healthy Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is everything you want in a quick meal: creamy, light, filling, and endlessly versatile. With just a few pantry staples and fresh veggies, you’ll have a nourishing dish that doesn’t skimp on flavor. Whether you’re chasing protein goals or just craving something simple and delicious, this one’s going in your regular rotation.

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