What can you use instead of mayonnaise in tuna salad?

One of the best alternatives to mayo is Greek yogurt, which adds creaminess and extra protein. For a dairy-free option, mashed avocado or hummus also work well. That’s why recipes like this High-Protein Tuna Salad are so popular, they use smarter swaps that improve nutrition without losing flavor.

What can you mix with tuna when you don’t have mayo?

You can mix tuna with Greek yogurt, avocado, cottage cheese, or even olive oil and lemon juice. These options not only taste fresh but also add nutritional value. In fact, many health-conscious home cooks prefer these alternatives, making a High-Protein Tuna Salad (No Mayo) a community favorite.

Is there a lot of protein in tuna salad?

Yes, but it depends on the recipe. A mayo-based version has protein from tuna but little else. A High-Protein Tuna Salad boosts protein levels significantly thanks to Greek yogurt, often delivering 25–30 grams of protein per serving. That makes it one of the most efficient ways to increase daily protein intake.

Is tuna salad ok for weight loss?

Absolutely. Tuna is lean and low in calories, and when paired with Greek yogurt instead of mayo, it becomes even more weight-loss-friendly. This High-Protein Tuna Salad keeps you full, supports muscle maintenance, and avoids excess calories from mayo. For more weight-loss ideas, see our Cottage Cheese Recipes for Weight Loss collection.

7 Reasons to Love This High-Protein Tuna Salad (No Mayo Recipe)

Description

This High-Protein Tuna Salad (No Mayo) is creamy, refreshing, and loaded with lean protein. Made with Greek yogurt, tuna, crunchy veggies, and simple seasonings, it’s the perfect meal prep recipe for lunch or a post-workout snack.

Ingredients

Scale

2 cans tuna (packed in water, drained)
1/2 cup Greek yogurt (plain, nonfat or low-fat)
1 stalk celery, finely chopped
1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
1/2 cucumber, diced small
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 tbsp lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
1 tbsp fresh parsley or dill (chopped)
Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

In a mixing bowl, combine Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, and lemon juice until smooth.
Add the drained tuna, celery, red onion, and cucumber.
Mix gently until well combined and creamy.
Season with salt, black pepper, and fresh parsley or dill.
Serve immediately or store in the fridge for later.

Notes

Swap Greek yogurt for mashed avocado if you want a dairy-free option.
Add diced pickles or relish for extra tang.
Use canned salmon instead of tuna for a variation.
Serve inside lettuce wraps, whole grain bread, or on top of a salad.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Lunch, Dinner, Snack, Meal Prep
Method: No-Cook
Cuisine: American, Healthy

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 220
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 430mg
Fat: 6g
Saturated Fat: 1g
Unsaturated Fat: 5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 7g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 36g
Cholesterol: 40mg