This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is a tasty mix of creamy cottage cheese, tasty tuna, crunchy veggies, and a splash of seasoning. It’s simple, healthy, and perfect for lunch!
Honestly, it’s like a party in a bowl! I love making this for a quick meal and sometimes add some crackers on the side—perfect for scooping and munching!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: The canned tuna is the star here. You can use tuna in oil or water based on your preference. If you need a vegetarian option, chickpeas or canned salmon work well too!
Cottage Cheese: Low-fat cottage cheese keeps it light and creamy. If you’re not a fan, Greek yogurt makes a great substitute, giving a similar texture with a tangy kick.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds crunch. No cucumber? Try diced bell peppers or celery for a similar effect.
Red Onion: This adds a sharp flavor. If it’s too strong, opt for sweet onions or green onions as a milder substitute.
Dill: Fresh dill takes this salad to the next level. If you can’t find fresh herbs, dried dill works too—just use a smaller amount as it’s more concentrated.
How Do I Make Sure My Salad Is Well-Mixed and Tasty?
Mixing the ingredients well is key, so they all come together in flavor. Start by combining the tuna and cottage cheese gently in a large bowl. Then, add the crunchy veggies and herbs, mixing them through carefully without breaking everything up. This maintains the texture!
- Mix the tuna and cottage cheese first for a smooth base.
- Add the veggies gradually and stir gently to keep them crisp.
- Taste before serving! Adjust the salt, pepper, and lemon juice to your liking.
Chilling the salad for a bit helps the flavors meld together beautifully, so let it rest in the fridge if you can!
Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 (5 oz) can of tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 cup low-fat cottage cheese
- 1/2 cup cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, chopped
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Lettuce leaves, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a busy day when you want something healthy without a lot of fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base:
In a large bowl, combine the drained and flaked tuna with the cottage cheese. Use a fork to break up the tuna further and make it mix better with the cottage cheese, creating a creamy base.
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Add the diced cucumber, chopped red onion, and green onions to the bowl. These veggies will add a nice crunch to your salad!
3. Mix in Herbs and Flavor:
Stir in the fresh chopped dill and lemon juice. The dill adds a burst of flavor that really makes the salad shine. Mix everything together gently, being careful not to break apart the veggies too much.
4. Season Your Salad:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Give the salad another gentle stir to make sure the seasoning is evenly distributed.
5. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the salad chilled or at room temperature, garnished with a sprig of dill. Pair it with fresh lettuce leaves if you’d like, making it perfect for scooping or wrapping!
This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is creamy, fresh, and perfect for a quick, healthy lunch. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use Different Types of Tuna?
Absolutely! You can use tuna in oil for a richer flavor, or stick with tuna in water for a lighter option. Just make sure to drain it well. If you’re looking for something different, canned salmon or shredded chicken can also work!
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2–3 days. Just give it a good stir before serving again as some separation might occur.
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Dill?
No worries! You can use dried dill instead; however, use only about a third of the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated. If you don’t have dill, parsley or chives can provide a nice flavor alternative too.
Can I Make This Salad Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegan, substitute the tuna with chickpeas or a plant-based tuna product, and replace the cottage cheese with vegan yogurt or a vegan cream cheese alternative. You’ll still get a delicious and creamy salad!