If you think tuna salad needs mayonnaise to be delicious, think again! This Healthy Tuna Salad Without Mayo is light, refreshing, and packed with flavor—without a drop of mayo. Instead, we use creamy avocado and tangy Greek yogurt to create a luscious texture that keeps every bite satisfying. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a high-protein snack, or a meal-prep favorite, this tuna salad is about to become your new go-to.
Why You’ll Love Healthy Tuna Salad Without Mayo
Light and Refreshing: No heavy mayo, just fresh, wholesome ingredients.
High in Protein: Packed with lean tuna and Greek yogurt for a protein boost.
Quick and Easy: Ready in minutes with minimal prep.
Customizable: Adjust the flavors to suit your taste with different mix-ins.
Meal-Prep Friendly: Stays fresh in the fridge for easy grab-and-go meals.
Ingredients in Healthy Tuna Salad Without Mayo
This simple, nutrient-packed tuna salad is full of fresh, vibrant flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:
Canned Tuna: The protein-packed star of the show. Choose tuna in water for a lighter option or in olive oil for extra richness.
Avocado: Naturally creamy and loaded with healthy fats, it replaces mayo beautifully.
Greek Yogurt: Adds a tangy, creamy texture while keeping it light.
Lemon Juice: Brightens the flavors and keeps the avocado from browning.
Dijon Mustard: A little kick of flavor to enhance the dressing.
Celery: Adds a refreshing crunch and freshness.
Red Onion: Brings a slight sharpness and extra texture.
Cucumber: A hydrating, crisp addition that keeps things light.
Fresh Herbs (Parsley or Dill): A touch of fresh herbs takes the flavor to the next level.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasonings that bring everything together.
How to Make Healthy Tuna Salad Without Mayo
Mash the Avocado: In a mixing bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until smooth and creamy.
Mix the Dressing: Stir in Greek yogurt, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper. This creates a creamy, tangy base.
Add the Tuna: Drain the tuna and flake it into the bowl. Mix well to coat the tuna with the creamy avocado mixture.
Toss in the Veggies: Add chopped celery, red onion, cucumber, and fresh herbs. Stir until everything is evenly combined.
Adjust the Seasoning: Taste and add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper as needed.
Serve & Enjoy: Enjoy it right away or chill for 15 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
How to Serve Healthy Tuna Salad Without Mayo
As a Sandwich: Serve it on whole-grain bread or a toasted wrap.
Over Greens: Spoon it over a fresh salad for a low-carb option.
With Crackers: Perfect for a protein-packed snack.
In Lettuce Cups: A great way to keep it light and refreshing.
Stuffed in Avocado: Double the avocado goodness by filling an avocado half with the tuna salad.
Additional Tips
Use Ripe Avocado: The creamier the avocado, the better the texture.
Make It Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for heat.
Swap the Yogurt: If you prefer dairy-free, use coconut yogurt or mashed white beans instead.
Add More Crunch: Try adding chopped bell peppers, radishes, or nuts.
Meal Prep Friendly: Store in an airtight container for up to two days.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I make this ahead of time?
A1: Yes! Store it in an airtight container, but add extra lemon juice to keep the avocado from browning.
Q2: What type of tuna is best?
A2: Tuna in water is the lightest option, but tuna in olive oil adds extra richness.
Q3: Can I use something other than avocado?
A3: Yes! Try hummus or mashed chickpeas for a different creamy texture.
Q4: Is this recipe keto-friendly?
A4: Absolutely! It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.
Q5: Can I add eggs to this?
A5: Yes! Chopped boiled eggs make a great addition for extra protein.
Q6: How do I store leftovers?
A6: Keep them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
Q7: Can I add fruit for sweetness?
A7: Definitely! Chopped apples or grapes add a delicious contrast.
Q8: What’s the best substitute for Greek yogurt?
A8: You can use sour cream, cottage cheese, or a dairy-free alternative.
Q9: Can I freeze this?
A9: Not recommended—the avocado and yogurt don’t freeze well.
Q10: Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
A10: Yes! Grilled or poached fresh tuna works beautifully in this salad.
Final Thoughts
This Healthy Tuna Salad Without Mayo is proof that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring. It’s fresh, creamy, and loaded with flavor—without any of the heaviness of mayo. Try it once, and you’ll never go back to the classic version!
Print
Healthy Tuna Salad Without Mayo
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
Description
This healthy, no-mayo tuna salad is a light and protein-packed alternative to traditional tuna salad. Using Greek yogurt instead of mayo, along with fiber-rich chickpeas and fresh dill, this dish is creamy, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep or a quick lunch. Enjoy it on toast, in lettuce wraps, or as a salad topping!
Ingredients
- 1 (12oz) can chunk light tuna in water, drained
- 1 (15oz) can chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup non-fat plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1/4 tsp salt
- 1/8 tsp ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp paprika
- 1/4 cup fresh dill, rinsed and destemmed
Instructions
- In a medium mixing bowl, combine tuna, chickpeas, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Gently mix until well combined.
- Fold in fresh dill and adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.
Notes
- As a sandwich: Spread on whole-grain bread or a wrap.
- With crackers: Enjoy as a dip with whole-wheat crackers.
- In lettuce cups: A low-carb option for a fresh, crisp bite.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 portion
- Calories: 269
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Fat: 4g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 3g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 28g
- Fiber: 7g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 35mg