Tuna & Cottage Cheese Salad

This tuna and cottage cheese summer salad has become my go-to lunch solution during the hottest months when turning on the stove feels like punishment. The combination of protein-rich tuna and creamy cottage cheese creates a satisfying meal that keeps me energized without weighing me down.

I first created this recipe during a particularly brutal heatwave last summer when even the thought of cooking made me break into a sweat. Now it has become my staple lunch for busy weekdays when I need something substantial but refreshingly light.

Ingredients

• Cottage cheese provides a creamy protein base that pairs surprisingly well with tuna try full fat for extra richness
• Canned tuna offers convenient lean protein look for sustainably caught varieties packed in water
• Cherry tomatoes add juicy sweetness and bursts of flavor choose multicolored varieties for visual appeal
• Cucumber delivers essential crunch and hydration pick firm ones with minimal seeds
• Red onion introduces sharp flavor contrast dice it very finely to distribute the flavor without overwhelming
• Avocado contributes healthy fats and velvety texture select one that yields slightly to gentle pressure
• Lemon juice brightens everything with necessary acidity always use fresh not bottled
• Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and helps bind flavors together a good quality oil makes a difference
• Fresh herbs provide aromatic complexity dill particularly complements the seafood beautifully

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare Your Proteins

Drain your tuna completely by pressing the lid against the contents while tilting over the sink. Transfer to your mixing bowl and fluff with a fork to break up any dense chunks. This creates the perfect texture for incorporating with other ingredients.

Prep Your Vegetables

Slice cherry tomatoes cleanly through the middle to release their juices into the salad. Dice cucumber into quarter-inch pieces for the ideal crunch to softness ratio. Mince red onion extremely finely to avoid overwhelming bites of raw onion flavor.

Combine And Season

Add cottage cheese to the bowl and gently fold everything together using a rubber spatula rather than aggressive stirring. This preserves the distinct textures of each ingredient. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice while folding to ensure even distribution of the dressing.

Final Touches

Sprinkle salt evenly across the surface rather than dumping in one spot. Add fresh herbs last to preserve their vibrant color and aroma. Let the salad rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld properly.

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The cucumber is actually my secret weapon in this salad. I discovered that slicing it paper thin with a mandoline rather than chunky dicing completely transforms the eating experience. The thin slices distribute throughout each bite providing refreshing crunch without dominating the texture profile.

Make Ahead Tips

This salad actually improves with a little time in the refrigerator as the flavors meld together. For meal prep purposes assemble all ingredients except avocado which should be added just before serving to prevent browning. Store in airtight containers for up to three days though the vegetables will soften slightly over time.

Serving Suggestions

While perfectly satisfying on its own this salad makes a lovely filling for lettuce wraps using butter lettuce or romaine hearts. For a more substantial meal serve atop toasted sourdough bread or alongside a light vegetable soup. During summer gatherings I often present this in hollowed out tomatoes or avocado halves for an impressive appetizer presentation.

Ingredient Swaps

If cottage cheese texture isnt your favorite substitute with Greek yogurt for similar protein benefits with a smoother consistency. Canned salmon works beautifully in place of tuna offering additional omega3 fatty acids. For a vegetarian version replace the tuna with chickpeas or white beans maintaining the protein content while creating an entirely different but equally delicious salad.

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Common Recipe Questions

→ How long does this tuna and cottage cheese salad keep in the refrigerator?

This salad will keep well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The vegetables may release some water over time, so it's best to give it a quick stir before serving leftovers. For optimal freshness, you might want to add the avocado just before serving rather than mixing it in advance.

→ Can I use Greek yogurt instead of cottage cheese in this salad?

Yes, Greek yogurt makes an excellent substitute for cottage cheese in this salad. It provides similar creaminess and protein content but with a different texture. Use the same amount (1 cup) of plain Greek yogurt, preferably full-fat for the best flavor. The salad will have a tangier profile but will still be delicious.

→ What are good side dishes to serve with this tuna salad?

This versatile salad pairs wonderfully with several sides. Try it with whole grain crackers, toasted pita bread, or a slice of crusty sourdough. For a larger meal, serve alongside a light soup like gazpacho or cucumber soup. It also works beautifully atop mixed greens or baby spinach for an extra veggie boost.

→ Is there a substitute for tuna in this salad?

Absolutely! Canned salmon works perfectly as a substitute for tuna, providing similar texture and excellent nutrition. For non-seafood options, try diced cooked chicken breast, chickpeas, or white beans. Each alternative will change the flavor profile slightly but will maintain the protein content and work well with the other ingredients.

→ How can I make this tuna and cottage cheese salad more filling?

To make this salad more substantial, consider adding cooked quinoa, farro, or orzo pasta (about ½ cup). Other additions that boost satiety include diced hard-boiled eggs, more avocado, a handful of toasted nuts like walnuts or almonds, or even cooked and chilled small pasta shapes. Serving it over a bed of greens with extra vegetables also makes for a heartier meal.

→ What herbs work best in this salad?

While dill and parsley are suggested in the original recipe, many herbs complement this salad beautifully. Fresh basil adds a sweet, aromatic quality; chives provide a mild onion flavor; cilantro brings brightness (though it's polarizing); and mint creates a refreshing summer note. Feel free to experiment with herb combinations or use whatever you have on hand.