Keto Tuna Salad
A creamy, crunchy, and satisfying tuna salad perfect for a low-carb lifestyle. Made with simple ingredients like canned tuna, mayonnaise, and celery, it's ready in minutes for a quick and healthy lunch.
For 4 servings
Prepare the tuna and vegetables.
- Open the cans of tuna and drain them thoroughly to remove all water.
- Transfer the drained tuna to a medium mixing bowl and flake it apart with a fork.
- Finely chop the celery, red onion, and dill pickles.
TIPDraining the tuna well is key to preventing a watery salad. Press the lid against the tuna to squeeze out excess liquid.Combine all ingredients.
- To the bowl with the flaked tuna, add the mayonnaise, chopped celery, red onion, and dill pickles.
- Add the dijon mustard and fresh lemon juice.
- Season with a pinch of salt and black pepper.
- Gently mix everything together until just combined.
TIPAvoid overmixing, as it can make the tuna mushy. Stir just enough to incorporate all the ingredients evenly.Chill and serve.
For the best flavor, cover the bowl and chill the tuna salad in the refrigerator for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together. Garnish with fresh dill before serving if desired.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For extra creaminess, you can add a tablespoon of cream cheese along with the mayonnaise.
- 2Feel free to adjust the amount of mayonnaise to reach your desired consistency.
- 3Store leftover tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- 4Serve in lettuce cups, hollowed-out bell peppers, or with keto-friendly crackers for a complete meal.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Add two chopped hard-boiled eggs to the salad for an extra boost of protein and a richer texture.
healthyHealthy
For a different flavor profile and added healthy fats, mash in half of a ripe avocado.
kid friendlyKid friendly
Omit the red onion and pickles if your kids are sensitive to strong flavors. You can add finely shredded carrots for a touch of sweetness and color.
dairy freeDairy free
This recipe is naturally dairy-free as long as you use a mayonnaise made without dairy products, such as one based on avocado or olive oil.
Why this is on our healthy list.
High in Protein
Tuna is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle building, repair, and overall body function.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Tuna provides beneficial omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health, reduce inflammation, and are crucial for brain function.
Low in Carbohydrates
With virtually no carbs, this salad is perfect for a ketogenic diet, helping to maintain ketosis and manage blood sugar levels.
Quick and Convenient
This no-cook recipe comes together in minutes, providing a nutritious and satisfying meal without any hassle.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy option. It is high in protein and omega-3 fatty acids from the tuna, and provides healthy fats from the mayonnaise. Being low in carbohydrates, it's excellent for a keto or low-carb diet.