This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is a simple and tasty dish that combines creamy cottage cheese with juicy tuna and crunchy veggies. It’s great for a quick lunch or snack!
I love that it’s packed with protein and so easy to mix up. Just stir it all together, and you’ve got a filling meal that feels fresh and light. Perfect for busy days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: Canned tuna is great for convenience. Opt for tuna packed in water for a lighter option. If you’re looking for a vegetarian swap, chickpeas or canned salmon can work well, too!
Cottage Cheese: I love using low-fat cottage cheese for creaminess without too many calories. You could substitute Greek yogurt for a tangy flavor, or even ricotta for a different texture.
Cucumber: Fresh cucumber adds a nice crunch. If you don’t have one, zucchini or chopped bell peppers can be a great substitute for the crunch factor.
Kalamata Olives: These olives bring a rich, salty flavor. If you can’t find them, green olives or capers can be used instead. Just adjust the saltiness accordingly!
Herbs: Fresh dill is key for brightness. If fresh isn’t available, use 1 tsp of dry dill. Parsley can be replaced with cilantro if you want a different herbal note.
How Do I Make Sure My Veggies Stay Fresh in the Salad?
Keeping your veggies fresh and crunchy is important for a great salad! Here are some tips:
- Make sure to peel and dice the cucumber just before adding it to the bowl. This keeps its moisture intact.
- Use fresh herbs—like dill and parsley—right before serving for the best flavor and aroma.
- Don’t mix in the olives until the end to prevent them from getting mushy in the mix.
- If you’re chilling the salad, cover it with plastic wrap to maintain freshness without drying out.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 can (5-6 oz) tuna, drained and flaked
- 1 cup cottage cheese (preferably low-fat or regular)
- 1 cucumber, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced
- 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
- 2 tbsp fresh dill, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
- 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This refreshing Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad takes about 10 minutes of prep time and can be chilled for an additional 15-20 minutes if you want the flavors to blend nicely. Overall, it’s quick and perfect for a healthy meal or snack!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Base:
Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Combine the drained and flaked tuna with the cottage cheese. Mix them together gently until they’re well blended—that’s your creamy base!
2. Add the Crunchy Veggies:
Next, toss in your freshly diced cucumber, finely chopped red onion, and sliced green onions to the bowl. These veggies will add some nice crunch and flavor to your salad!
3. Stir in the Fresh Herbs:
Now it’s time to mix in your chopped fresh dill and parsley. Don’t forget to squeeze in the lemon juice too! This adds a lovely zing to balance out the creaminess.
4. Season and Fold:
Take a moment to season your salad with salt and black pepper to taste. Give it a stir to combine everything evenly. Then, gently fold in half of the Kalamata olives, saving the rest for decoration later.
5. Serve and Garnish:
To serve, simply mound the salad onto a plate or into a bowl. Sprinkle the remaining Kalamata olives on top and add a sprig of fresh dill for a pretty presentation!
6. Chill and Enjoy:
If you have a little time, pop the salad in the refrigerator for about 15-20 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld together beautifully, making every bite burst with freshness. Enjoy your healthy, protein-packed meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Tuna?
Absolutely! While canned tuna is commonly used, you can also opt for fresh tuna steak, cooked and flaked. Just remember to season it well since fresh tuna tends to be milder in flavor.
What Can I Substitute for Cottage Cheese?
If cottage cheese isn’t your preference, feel free to use Greek yogurt or ricotta cheese for a different texture. Greek yogurt will add a nice tangy flavor, while ricotta will keep it creamy.
How Long Does This Salad Last in the Fridge?
The Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad should stay fresh in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just be sure to keep it sealed to maintain its texture and flavor!
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to mix in other veggies like bell peppers, celery, or even cherry tomatoes for added color and crunch. Just be sure to chop them finely so they blend well with the other ingredients.
