Tuna with Olive Oil and Lemon
A simple, protein-packed snack ready in minutes. Flaky tuna is tossed with bright lemon juice, a drizzle of olive oil, and a crack of black pepper. Perfect for a quick lunch or post-workout refuel.
For 1 serving
Drain and flake the tuna.
Open the tuna pouch or can and drain any excess water thoroughly. Transfer the tuna to a small bowl and use a fork to gently flake it into smaller pieces.
TIPDraining the tuna well is key to preventing a watery final dish.Add seasonings and mix.
- Drizzle the olive oil and fresh lemon juice over the tuna.
- Sprinkle with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and dried parsley if using.
- Gently toss everything together with the fork until just combined.
TIPAvoid overmixing, which can make the tuna texture pasty.Serve immediately.
Enjoy the tuna straight from the bowl, or serve with whole-grain crackers, cucumber slices, and cherry tomatoes.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1For the best flavor, use freshly squeezed lemon juice, not the bottled kind.
- 2Don't overmix the tuna, or it can become mushy. A gentle toss is all you need.
- 3You can prepare this ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
- 4Feel free to add other herbs like dill or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Adapt it for your goals.
High protein
Stir in 2 tablespoons of non-fat Greek yogurt for a creamier texture and an extra protein boost.
low carbLow carb
Serve the tuna in lettuce cups or with celery sticks instead of crackers for a low-carb option.
quickQuick
To make this even faster, mix all the ingredients directly in the tuna pouch itself.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Lean Protein Source
Tuna is an excellent source of high-quality protein, which is essential for muscle repair, growth, and overall body function.
Heart-Healthy Fats
Olive oil provides monounsaturated fats, which are known to support cardiovascular health by helping to lower bad cholesterol levels.
Rich in Omega-3s
Tuna is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for brain health and reducing inflammation.
Frequently asked questions
Yes, it's a very healthy snack. It's high in lean protein from the tuna and provides healthy monounsaturated fats from the olive oil. It's also low in carbs and sugar.