When you think of tuna salad, you probably imagine the classic combination of tuna, mayo, and maybe some celery or onion tossed in for crunch. It’s simple, familiar, and great for quick meals.
But what if I told you that you could make a version that’s just as creamy and satisfying—only lighter, higher in protein, and loaded with nutrients? That’s exactly what this Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad delivers.
By swapping out most (or all) of the mayo with creamy cottage cheese, you get a rich texture, tons of flavor, and a major boost of protein without the heaviness.
Cottage cheese adds a slight tang that pairs perfectly with tuna and keeps the salad moist and flavorful without being greasy. Plus, it’s a fantastic option for meal prep, lunchboxes, and anyone looking to make healthy eating both easy and delicious.
This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen during busy weeks. It comes together in under 10 minutes with pantry staples and fresh ingredients, and it’s so versatile—you can scoop it onto a salad, stuff it into a sandwich or wrap, or eat it straight from the bowl with crackers.
Even picky eaters have come around to loving this one, especially with a few custom mix-ins to suit their taste.
What You’ll Need
- 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained (in water or olive oil)
- ½ cup cottage cheese (full-fat or low-fat)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for extra creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon or yellow mustard
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped celery
- 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion or scallions
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Juice of ¼ lemon (optional)
- Optional garnishes: chopped parsley, dill, or chives
- Optional add-ins: chopped pickles, shredded carrots, diced apples
Pro Tips
- Drain tuna well so your salad isn’t watery—especially if using tuna packed in water.
- Blend or mash cottage cheese if you prefer a smoother texture over curds.
- Adjust seasoning last—some cottage cheese brands are saltier than others.
- Add crunch with celery or cucumber to balance out the creaminess.
- Use high-quality tuna—a better brand makes a noticeable difference in flavor.
Tools You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl
- Fork or spoon
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring spoons
- Small citrus juicer (optional)
Substitutions & Variations
Dairy-Free: Use mashed avocado or dairy-free yogurt instead of cottage cheese.
Low Fat: Skip the mayo entirely and stick with low-fat cottage cheese.
No Mustard: Leave it out or substitute with a dash of apple cider vinegar.
Add Protein: Stir in a chopped boiled egg for an extra protein hit.
Flavor Boost: Add a teaspoon of pickle relish or chopped olives.
Make-Ahead Tips
- This tuna salad keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Store in an airtight container to prevent odors from spreading.
- Great for meal prep—just prep veggies separately and mix before serving.
- If packing for lunch, store with crackers or bread separately to keep them crisp.
How to Make Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad
Step 1: Combine Tuna and Cottage Cheese
In a medium bowl, add drained tuna and cottage cheese. Use a fork to break up the tuna and mix until well combined.
Step 2: Add Flavor and Texture
Stir in mustard, chopped celery, chopped onion, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add lemon juice if using.
Step 3: Stir and Adjust
Mix until everything is evenly combined. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Add a touch of mayo if desired for creamier texture.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Scoop into a bowl or onto a plate. Garnish with chopped herbs and fresh black pepper. Serve with crackers, on toast, or in lettuce cups.
Leftovers & Storage
- Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Stir before serving as cottage cheese may release moisture.
- Not freezer-friendly—best enjoyed fresh.
- Great as a sandwich filler, salad topper, or even in a wrap with greens and tomato.
Final Thoughts
This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is the perfect balance of classic comfort and modern nutrition. It’s creamy, satisfying, and full of flavor, with the bonus of being high in protein and easy to throw together any time of day.
Whether you’re whipping up a quick lunch, prepping for the week, or simply craving something nourishing and simple, this salad delivers.
Try it today—and don’t forget to leave a comment sharing how you served yours or what favorite mix-ins you added!