Easy Tuna Salad Recipe

This fresh and flavorful tuna salad is a light, protein-packed dish perfect for lunch or a quick dinner.

Served in crisp lettuce cups, it’s a low-carb, refreshing alternative to traditional sandwiches—complete with creamy texture, crunchy veggies, and a peppery bite.

Ingredients

For the Tuna Salad

• 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained

• 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise)

• 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional, for extra richness)

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard

• 1/4 cup finely diced cucumber

• 2 tablespoons chopped green onion (plus extra for garnish)

• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley or dill

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 1/2 teaspoon salt

• Fresh ground black pepper, to taste

• Juice of 1/2 lemon

For Serving

• Butter or Bibb lettuce leaves (washed and patted dry)

• Optional toppings: extra cucumber, scallions, cracked pepper, or avocado slices

Instructions

1. Prepare the tuna salad

In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, Greek yogurt (or mayo), olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Mix until well combined and creamy.

2. Add fresh ingredients

Stir in the diced cucumber, chopped green onion, fresh herbs, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and lemon juice. Taste and adjust seasoning as desired.

3. Assemble the lettuce cups

Spoon the tuna salad evenly into individual lettuce leaves, creating “cups.” Garnish with extra green onions and a few grinds of black pepper.

Cooking Tips

• Tuna choice: Chunk light or albacore both work. Albacore has a firmer texture and milder flavor, while chunk light is softer and more flavorful.

• Creamy balance: Greek yogurt lightens the dish without sacrificing creaminess. For a richer version, use mayonnaise or a half-and-half blend.

• Add crunch: Add chopped celery or radishes for extra texture.

• Make ahead: The salad stores well in the fridge for 2–3 days in an airtight container.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve chilled as lettuce wraps, or:

  • Pile onto whole grain toast or crackers

  • Stuff into halved avocados or bell peppers

  • Wrap in tortillas for a quick tuna wrap

• Pair with:

  • A side of fresh fruit or vegetable sticks

  • A chilled pasta salad or cup of soup

This tuna salad is simple, wholesome, and endlessly versatile—perfect for meal prep, lunchboxes, or light, satisfying meals.