This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad is a tasty and healthy mix of creamy cottage cheese and protein-packed tuna. Throw in some crunch from vegetables, and you’ve got a quick meal!
I love making this salad for lunch. It’s super simple and full of flavor. Plus, it always surprises my friends—”Cottage cheese in a salad? Really?” Yes, really! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: Tuna in water is great for this salad. If you need a substitute, canned salmon or chickpeas (for a vegetarian option) works well too. Both add a nice texture and flavor!
Cottage Cheese: I recommend small curd cottage cheese for its creamy consistency. If you’re looking for a dairy-free option, try using silken tofu, blended until smooth.
Red Onion: Red onions add a lovely crunch and color. If they’re too strong for you, use green onions or even sweet onions instead for milder flavor.
Dill: Fresh dill is ideal for flavor! You can also substitute with dried dill (1:3 ratio) or leave it out if you prefer another herb like parsley or basil.
How Do I Combine All These Ingredients for the Best Flavor?
Mixing ingredients together properly ensures your salad tastes great. Here’s how:
- Start by putting the drained tuna and cottage cheese in a bowl; it’s the base.
- Add the veggies—red onion, cucumber, and green onions—and stir gently. This avoids crushing the delicate cottage cheese.
- Include the chopped dill and mayo, if using, then season with lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Adjust these based on your taste.
- Mix everything until just combined. This keeps the ingredients intact and enhances their flavors.
Remember, letting the salad chill for a bit helps the flavors meld beautifully before serving.
Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 can (5-6 ounces) tuna in water, drained and flaked
- 1 cup cottage cheese (small curd preferred)
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/2 cucumber, diced, plus extra cucumber slices for garnish
- 2-3 green onions, sliced
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped (plus extra sprigs for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise (optional for creaminess)
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice or to taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad takes about 10 minutes to prepare, making it a quick and easy dish for lunch or a snack. Just mix everything together, chill for a bit, and you’re ready to enjoy it!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Combine the Base:
In a mixing bowl, start by adding the drained and flaked tuna. Next, add the cottage cheese. These two ingredients form the base of your salad and provide a great creamy texture.
2. Add Fresh Ingredients:
Now, toss in the finely chopped red onion, diced cucumber, and sliced green onions. These veggies add crunch and freshness to the salad!
3. Mix in Herbs and Creaminess:
Stir in the chopped fresh dill, which gives the salad a delicious flavor. If you like a creamier texture, add the mayonnaise here as well.
4. Season to Taste:
Now, squeeze in some lemon juice and sprinkle salt and pepper over the mixture. This is your chance to adjust the flavors to your liking. Gently mix all ingredients until they are nicely combined.
5. Serve and Garnish:
Transfer the salad into a serving bowl. Garnish with extra fresh dill sprigs and arrange cucumber slices around the edge for an appealing presentation.
6. Chill and Enjoy:
For the best flavor, let the salad chill in the fridge for a little while. Serve it chilled as a healthy lunch, side dish, or enjoy it with crackers or bread. Bon appétit!
Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead of Canned?
Absolutely! If using fresh tuna, sear or grill it first, then flake it and mix with the other ingredients. Just make sure it’s cooked through for safety.
How Long Can I Store Leftover Salad?
Leftover Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just give it a stir before serving again!
What if I Don’t Have Fresh Dill?
No problem! You can use dried dill instead. Just use about 1 teaspoon of dried dill to replace the fresh. Alternatively, parsley or even chives can work well for flavor.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add any veggies you like. Bell peppers, celery, or even shredded carrots can add extra crunch and flavor to your salad!
