Tuna Salad No Mayo by Recipes Lace is the ultimate healthy twist on a classic favourite. We skip the mayonnaise and blend olive oil, lemon juice, and Dijon for a bright, zesty finish that feels light but still satisfying. I’ve made this version countless times in the Recipes Lace kitchen, and it’s become our go-to for fast, balanced lunches.
Packed with crisp veggies and high-quality tuna, this recipe fits perfectly into your clean-eating plan. Add your favourite salad toppings for extra crunch, or pair it with Protein Overnight Oats for a complete make-ahead meal. For party-ready flavour, try our Buffalo Chicken Dip next; both are simple, crowd-tested favourites from Recipes Lace.
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Updated & Retested: December 2025.
Tuna Salad No Mayo is a light, protein-rich recipe made with tuna, olive oil, lemon juice, and crunchy vegetables, eliminating the need for mayonnaise and providing a fresh, creamy texture without dairy or heavy fats.
What Is Tuna Salad No Mayo?
Tuna salad no mayo is a modern, heart-healthy twist on the traditional tuna salad. Instead of mayonnaise, it uses olive oil and lemon juice for lightness, flavour, and healthy fats.
According to Healthline, olive oil provides monounsaturated fats that support heart health and balance cholesterol, making this version a smarter everyday option.
As discussed on Medium, creating lighter versions of classic recipes, like replacing mayonnaise with olive oil, helps keep meals nutritious while maintaining great flavour and texture.
Why You’ll Love It
- Fast and weeknight-friendly: Ready in just 10 minutes, with no cooking required.
- Crowd-pleaser flavour: Zesty lemon and Dijon keep it bright and satisfying.
- Pantry ingredients: Made with tuna, olive oil, and basic veggies you already have.
- Easy substitutions (GF/DF): Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, no mayo required.
- Make-ahead friendly: Tastes even better after chilling for 30 minutes.
- Kid-approved & party-ready: Serve in lettuce cups, wraps, or snack packs for lunches and gatherings.
Ingredients (+ Substitutions)
This tuna salad no mayo uses simple, wholesome ingredients you can find in any pantry. The fresh crunch from vegetables and the brightness of lemon make it feel gourmet without the fuss. Here’s what you’ll need, plus a few easy swaps to fit your diet:
| Ingredient | Substitution / Diet Note |
|---|---|
| 4 (5-ounce) cans tuna, drained | Use albacore for firmer texture or light tuna for milder flavour |
| 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced | Cucumber or jicama for extra crunch |
| 1 carrot, shredded | Use bell pepper for lower sugar |
| ¼ cup sliced green onion (or chopped onion) | Yellow mustard for a milder taste |
| ½ red bell pepper, diced | Swap yellow pepper for sweetness |
| ¼ cup olive oil | Avocado oil for a buttery twist |
| Juice of 1 lemon (2–3 tbsp) | Lime juice for a tangy variation |
| 1 tbsp Dijon mustard | Yellow mustard for a milder taste |
| 1 garlic clove, minced | Garlic powder (¼ tsp) in a pinch |
| ¼ cup chopped parsley or cilantro | Red onion for a stronger flavour |
| ¼ tsp coarse salt | Use sea salt or omit for low-sodium |
| Black pepper, to taste | Add crushed red pepper for heat |
For a high-protein spin, try mixing in a spoonful of cottage cheese; it pairs beautifully with tuna and keeps calories low.
Equipment
You don’t need fancy tools to make this tuna salad, no mayo, just the basics. A large mixing bowl and a sturdy fork are your main essentials. Use a small whisk for blending the olive oil and lemon dressing smoothly.
A fine grater or box shredder helps with the carrot, while a sharp chef’s knife makes dicing the veggies quick and uniform. If you’re meal-prepping, grab a few airtight containers for easy storage and grab-and-go lunches.
How to Make Tuna Salad No Mayo (Step-by-Step)
This simple recipe comes together in minutes, no cooking, no fuss. Follow these easy steps for a perfectly balanced, flavorful salad.
1. Flake the Tuna
Tip: Use a fork to break up the tuna into small, even pieces. This helps the dressing coat every bite evenly.
2. Add the Veggies
Combine celery, carrot, onion, and red bell pepper in a large bowl.
Note: For extra crunch, chill the veggies for 10 minutes before mixing.
3. Make the Dressing
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and parsley.
Tip: Whisk until slightly emulsified; it gives the salad a creamy texture without mayo.
4. Combine Everything
Pour the dressing over the tuna and vegetables. Toss gently until fully coated.
Note: Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed.
Common Mistakes + Quick Fixes
- Too dry? Add an extra drizzle of olive oil or a spoonful of cottage cheese.
- Too tart? Stir in ½ teaspoon of honey or a bit more Dijon.
- Too salty? Add more shredded carrot or a squeeze of lemon.
Try serving it alongside Greek Chicken Bowls or stuffed into Avocado Halves for a satisfying, low-carb meal.
Variations & Serving Ideas
This tuna salad no mayo is endlessly flexible, perfect for customising to your taste or the season.
- Mediterranean Style: Add kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, and a sprinkle of feta or vegan feta.
- Spicy Kick: Mix in sriracha or a pinch of cayenne for bold flavour.
- Avocado Creamy: Mash in ripe avocado for a smooth, heart-healthy twist.
- Asian-Inspired: Replace olive oil with sesame oil and add shredded cucumber and carrot.
- Protein-Packed Lunch: Serve it with Protein Overnight Oats for an easy, make-ahead meal combo.
- Party Dip Style: Spoon it onto crackers or crostini alongside our Buffalo Chicken Dip Recipe for a fun appetiser board.
For a balanced plate, try pairing it with something cozy like Banana Bread Latte for brunch vibes or a refreshing Spiced Apple Cider on cool days, all Recipes Lace favourites.
If you’re craving something heartier, try our Tuna Pasta Salad it builds on the same fresh flavors but adds pasta for a more filling, meal-size option.
Storage, Reheating & Make-Ahead
This tuna salad no mayo keeps beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or quick weekday lunches. Store it properly to maintain flavour and freshness.
Fridge: Refrigerate in an airtight container; use within 3 days.
Freezer: Up to 1 month (drain excess liquid after thawing).
Reheat: Best enjoyed cold; if desired, let sit at room temperature for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Mini Q&A
Can you freeze tuna salad no mayo?
Yes, up to 1 month in airtight containers. Stir before serving to refresh texture.
Best way to reheat?
No need to heat, serve chilled, or let it rest at room temperature.
Can I make it ahead for meal prep?
Definitely! Prep the salad, store dressing separately, and combine just before eating.
Tuna Salad No Mayo: Easy Recipe Tips and Variations
Equipment
- 1 Large mixing bowl For combining all ingredients
- 1 Fork To flake the tuna easily
- 1 Small whisk For emulsifying the dressing
- 1 Chef’s Knife To dice and chop vegetables
- 1 Cutting Board Prep surface
- 1 Airtight container For storing leftovers
Ingredients
- 4 5-ounce cans tuna, drained
- 2 stalks celery thinly sliced
- 1 carrot shredded
- ¼ cup sliced green onion or chopped onion
- ½ red bell pepper diced
- ¼ cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon 2–3 tablespoons
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 garlic clove minced
- ¼ cup chopped parsley or cilantro
- ¼ teaspoon coarse salt
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Flake the Tuna: Break up the tuna with a fork in a large bowl.
- Add Veggies: Stir in celery, carrot, onion, and red bell pepper.
- Make Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon, garlic, and parsley.
- Combine: Pour dressing over tuna and toss gently.
- Season: Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Chill 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
FAQs ❓
What makes this a healthy tuna salad no mayo?
It’s made with olive oil and lemon juice instead of mayo, cutting saturated fat while keeping flavour and creaminess.
How do I make an old-fashioned tuna salad no mayo?
Use classic ingredients like tuna, celery, onion, and Dijon, skip mayo and mix with olive oil and lemon juice for a vintage-style flavour.
What’s the best simple tuna salad no mayo recipe?
This one! Just tuna, crisp veggies, olive oil, and Dijon mustard ready in 10 minutes.
Can I make tuna salad without mayo or yogurt?
Yes. Olive oil and Dijon mustard provide creaminess without dairy or eggs.
How can I make Mediterranean tuna salad no mayo?
Add kalamata olives, parsley, and a sprinkle of feta for a bright, Mediterranean twist.
What can replace mayo or avocado in tuna salad?
Use hummus, mashed white beans, or a drizzle of tahini for creaminess and protein.
Why did my tuna salad turn watery?
It’s likely excess liquid from tuna or veggies drains the tuna well, and add dressing gradually.
Nutrition (With Disclaimer)
This tuna salad, no mayo, is naturally high in lean protein and healthy fats, thanks to the olive oil and tuna combo. It’s low in carbs, rich in vitamins, and ideal for light lunches or high-protein meal prep days.
| Nutrient | Per Serving (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 220 kcal |
| Protein | 25 g |
| Carbohydrates | 4 g |
| Fiber | 1 g |
| Sugars | 2 g |
| Fat | 12 g |
| Saturated Fat | 2 g |
| Sodium | 290 mg |
| Cholesterol | 40 mg |
| Vitamin C | 18% DV |
| Iron | 8% DV |
Disclaimer: Nutrition values are estimates based on typical ingredients and portion sizes. Actual results may vary by brand and serving.
According to Healthline, olive oil is rich in monounsaturated fats that help support heart health, making it an excellent replacement for mayonnaise in healthy Tuna Salad No Mayo recipes.
Recipe Cost
This tuna salad, no mayo, is budget-friendly and ideal for weekly meal prep. The total cost averages $6–$8 for 4 servings, which is about $1.75–$2 per serving.
Using store-brand tuna or seasonal veggies helps lower the price, while premium albacore tuna or extra-virgin olive oil slightly increases it. It’s a smart, protein-rich meal that won’t stretch your grocery bill.
Reviews & Reader Tips
Our Recipes Lace community loves how versatile this tuna salad, no mayo, is! Here are some of the top reader notes and tweaks shared so far:
- “I added diced pickles and a touch of paprika gave it amazing flavour!”
- “Used avocado oil instead of olive oil, and it was super creamy.”
- “Prepped it Sunday and enjoyed it all week, still fresh by day three.”
- “Added a spoon of cottage cheese for extra protein, just like your tip!”
Have your own version? Leave a comment and ⭐ rating below!
Your feedback helps others discover new twists and keeps Recipes Lace recipes tested and updated.
Conclusion
This tuna salad no mayo is proof that healthy can still be full of flavour. With crisp veggies, heart-healthy olive oil, and a bright lemon dressing, it’s a dish that fits any occasionfrom light lunches to easy meal prep days.
Save this recipe to Pinterest so you can find it anytime you need a quick, protein-packed meal! And if you love fresh, simple recipes like this, try our Protein Overnight Oats next. Another Recipes Lace favourite for busy mornings.
Updated & Retested: December 2025.
