What makes this tuna salad sandwich different is no Mayonnaise needed, instead you use cottage cheese to get that creamy consistency. The onions, red onion, cucumbers, and celery give it the classic tuna salad crunch. I think of this as a no-recipe, recipe because you can adjust the ingredients easily to fit your personal tastes and the amounts.
This tuna salad comes together quickly and easy to adjust to your personal taste preference. The salad is great for a light dinner or lunch.
Main Ingredients Notes
Tuna – A pouch or 3-ounce can of tuna works great for a single serving. You can use tuna packed in water or oil depending on the flavor and texture you prefer. Tuna in water will be a lighter taste and keeps the salad feeling light and fresh. Tuna in oil is usually richer and a softer texture, which make the salad feel a little more hearty. I used Callipo tuna because its my favorite Yellowfin tuna.
Cottage Cheese – This is what make the tuna salad a little different. It give the creamy texture without using mayonnaise, but with a lighter, slightly tangy flavor.
Chili flakes – These are optional, but they add a little heat and great for those that like a bit of spice.
How to Mix Tuna Salad
- This is really a chop and mix recipe. add items in any order you choose and mix well.
Recipe Notes
- If you want an smoother texture you can mash the cottage cheese with a fork before adding to the tuna.
- For a crunchier salad, dice the celery, cucumber, onions, and pickles and add to the tuna right before serving.
- For a stronger pickle flavor. add a splash of the pickle juice.
It mostly adds creaminess with a mild tang, especially once mixed with the tuna, mustard, lemon juice, and crunchy vegetables.
Tuna Salad Sandwich
Ingredients
Recipe Directions
- In a small bowl, mix the tuna, celery, cucumber, red onion, pickles, and cottage cheese.
- Stir in the mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix well until well combined.
- Adjust the seasoning to taste and add chili flakes if desired.
- Serve as desired as a sandwich filling, or topped on a salad.
Nutrition
Notes
Serving Idea
- Chill 30 minutes before serving to help the flavors blend better.
- Serve on lettuce leaves for a lower-carb option.
Storage
For best texture and quality store covered in a refrigerator for no more than 1 day.Your Private Recipe Notes
Cost Estimate
| Ingredient | Quantity | Estimated Price | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cottage cheese | 1/4 cup | $2.69 per 16 oz | $0.34 |
| Tuna, canned | 1 (3 oz) can | $1.19 each | $1.19 |
| Celery | 2 tablespoons | $1.99 per bunch | $0.15 |
| Cucumber | 2 tablespoons | $0.99 each | $0.10 |
| Red onion | 1 tablespoon | $1.29 each | $0.06 |
| Pickles | 1 tablespoon | $3.29 per jar | $0.08 |
| Mustard | 3/4 teaspoon | $2.49 per bottle | $0.03 |
| Lemon juice | 2 teaspoons | $0.69 each lemon | $0.08 |
| Salt and pepper | to taste | pantry staples | $0.02 |
| Chili flakes | for topping | pantry staple | $0.02 |
| | | Total Cost | $2.06 |
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