Can I make cottage cheese tuna salad ahead of time?

Yes, absolutely. It’s actually better when it sits for a bit—the flavors blend together more. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days. Don’t freeze it, though. The texture goes weird.

Is cottage cheese tuna salad good for weight loss?

Yep! It’s high in protein and low in carbs, which helps you feel full longer. Plus, cottage cheese is lower in fat than mayo, and tuna adds lean protein and omega-3s. It’s one of the easiest low-calorie meals I keep on repeat.

Can I use flavored tuna packets?

Totally. I’ve tried lemon pepper and even spicy Thai—both worked great. Just adjust your seasoning based on the flavor of the packet so it doesn’t clash with the cottage cheese.

Do I need to blend the cottage cheese?

Not at all. It’s personal preference. Some people like the curds as-is, others (me included) prefer it blended smooth. If texture matters to you, a quick 10-second blend makes it super creamy.

What kind of cottage cheese should I use?

Either low-fat or full-fat works. Low-fat is lighter and great for calorie-conscious meals, but full-fat is richer and more filling. I use whichever one I have on hand.

What can I serve it with besides crackers or bread?

I love scooping it into lettuce wraps, stuffing it in mini bell peppers, or even eating it straight out of the bowl. It’s also awesome as a dip for veggie sticks. Super versatile.

Is this recipe kid-friendly?

Honestly, yes. My niece devoured it with Ritz crackers. If you skip the onion or spicy add-ins, most kids won’t even notice they’re eating something healthy.

How much protein is in cottage cheese tuna salad?

On average, one serving has about 40–45 grams of protein. One can of tuna has around 30g, and ½ cup of cottage cheese adds another 14g or so. Perfect for post-workout or meal prep.

High Protein Cottage Cheese Tuna Salad

Ingredients

Scale

1 (5 oz) can of tuna, drained
½ cup cottage cheese (blended for smoother texture if desired)
1 stalk celery, finely diced
2 tablespoons red onion, finely diced (optional: soak in water to mellow flavor)
1 teaspoon lemon juice or Dijon mustard
Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste
Optional: chopped dill or parsley
Optional add-ins: pickles, cucumber, olives, chili flakes, jalapeños, or avocado

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Drain tuna thoroughly using a strainer and press out excess liquid with a spoon.
In a bowl, combine the tuna with cottage cheese and mix until well blended.
Add lemon juice or mustard, salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Stir to combine.
Mix in diced celery and red onion until evenly distributed.
Top with chopped herbs or any desired optional add-ins.
Serve immediately or chill for 30 minutes for best flavor.

Notes

For smoother texture, blend the cottage cheese before mixing. Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Not suitable for freezing.

Author: Sabella Sachi
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Category: Lunch
Method: No Cook
Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 bowl
Calories: 300
Sugar: 2g
Sodium: 500mg
Fat: 12g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 8g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 4g
Fiber: 1g
Protein: 42g
Cholesterol: 70mg