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This lighter, proteinpacked tuna salad swaps out traditional mayo for tangy Greek yogurt, making it a nutritious and refreshing choice for lunch or a quick meal. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something satisfying without a lot of fuss.
I discovered this recipe when trying to lighten up my usual tuna salad. The switch to Greek yogurt made such a difference, I love how fresh and bright it tastes, and sometimes I even eat it straight from the fridge as a snack.
Ingredients
- Tuna: Two cans in water drained well, choose good quality tuna for the best texture and flavor
- Greek yogurt: Half a cup plain, 2 percent or full fat works beautifully for creaminess and tang
- Celery: Quarter cup finely chopped, adds crunch and freshness
- Red onion: Two tablespoons finely chopped, for a mild sharpness that complements the tuna
- Dill: One tablespoon fresh chopped or one teaspoon dried, brings an herbaceous lift to the salad
- Dijon mustard: One teaspoon, balances tang and a touch of heat
- Garlic powder: Half a teaspoon, for subtle depth without overpowering
- Salt and black pepper: To taste, essential for seasoning and bringing everything together
Instructions
- Squeeze out the Tuna:
- Open both cans and drain completely. Press down with a fork while draining to get rid of excess moisture. Transfer to a mixing bowl and break the tuna into small, even pieces with the fork. This ensures every bite is consistent.
- Add the Mix-Ins:
- Add Greek yogurt, chopped celery, red onion, fresh or dried dill, Dijon mustard, and garlic powder straight into the bowl with the tuna. The combination of ingredients will create a balanced blend of creaminess, crunch, and flavor.
- Combine Thoroughly:
- Use a fork or spoon to mix everything well. Aim for a creamy, uniform texture with no dry patches of tuna remaining. Take your time here to ensure the tuna is evenly coated without breaking it down too much.
- Season and Brighten:
- Taste and season with salt and pepper. Start with about a quarter teaspoon of salt and adjust from there. A squeeze of fresh lemon juice can be added if you want an extra layer of brightness that wakes up the flavors.
- Serve or Chill:
- Serve immediately on bread, crackers, or lettuce leaves. Alternatively, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors marry well. The salad keeps in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
My favorite ingredient here is fresh dill. It adds such a bright, herbal note that makes this salad feel special without adding complexity. I also remember making this quickly on a hectic afternoon when unexpected guests dropped by, everyone loved how fresh and creamy it was.
Storage Tips
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge and consume within three days. Ensure you give it a good stir before serving if it has been sitting for a while, as the yogurt can separate slightly. Avoid freezing as the texture can degrade.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you don’t have dill, fresh parsley or chives are great alternatives that keep the herbaceous quality. Creamy avocado can be mixed in for added richness if you want a twist. Swap Dijon mustard for yellow mustard for a milder flavor if preferred.
Serving Suggestions
Serve on toasted whole grain bread for a filling sandwich, use large lettuce leaves to make low carb wraps, or spoon over a crisp green salad for a protein boost and creamy touch.
This Greek yogurt tuna salad is quick, high in protein, and bright in flavor. It keeps well in the fridge for up to three days.
Common Questions About Recipes
- → Can I use low-fat or full-fat Greek yogurt?
Both low-fat and full-fat Greek yogurt work well, adjusting creaminess and richness to your preference.
- → Is canned tuna in water better than oil-packed tuna here?
Tuna packed in water keeps the dish lighter and lets the yogurt's flavor shine.
- → How long should the salad be refrigerated before serving?
Chilling for at least 30 minutes helps meld flavors, but it can be served immediately if preferred.
- → Can I add lemon juice to this mix?
A squeeze of fresh lemon juice adds brightness and balances the creamy texture beautifully.
- → What can I substitute for fresh dill if unavailable?
Dried dill is a good alternative, but use sparingly since it's more concentrated in flavor.