This tuna salad without mayo is creamy, flavorful, and packed with protein, thanks to Greek yogurt and chickpeas. I love how it keeps all the comfort of classic tuna salad but in a lighter, healthier way. It’s quick to make, full of fresh flavor, and perfect for sandwiches, wraps, or enjoying on its own.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I like this recipe because it’s nourishing, satisfying, and incredibly easy to prepare. With tuna, chickpeas, and Greek yogurt, I get three sources of protein in one dish, plus extra fiber from the chickpeas. It’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it ideal for busy days when I still want a healthy meal.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
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1 can (5 oz) tuna packed in water, drained
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1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
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1/2 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
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1–2 tsp lemon juice (to taste)
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1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
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Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions
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I drain the tuna and chickpeas, then place them in a mixing bowl.
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Using a fork, I mash the chickpeas slightly to create a creamier texture.
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I add Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
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I stir everything together until well combined, adjusting seasoning as needed.
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I serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2 servings. It takes just 10 minutes to prepare and requires no cooking.
Variations
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I sometimes add diced celery or cucumber for crunch.
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For a Mediterranean twist, I mix in chopped kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes.
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I like adding a pinch of smoked paprika for a hint of warmth.
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For extra tang, I swap lemon juice for red wine vinegar.
Storage/reheating
I store the tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. I don’t reheat it — it’s best served chilled or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?
Yes, I cook and flake fresh tuna, but canned tuna keeps the recipe quick and easy.
Can I use another type of bean?
Yes, white beans work well as a substitute for chickpeas.
How do I make it dairy-free?
I replace the Greek yogurt with a dairy-free yogurt alternative.
Can I make it ahead for meal prep?
Yes, it stores well for up to 3 days in the fridge, making it perfect for lunches.
What’s the best way to serve this tuna salad?
I love it in a sandwich, wrap, lettuce cup, or on top of whole-grain crackers.
Conclusion
This tuna salad without mayo is my go-to when I want a quick, healthy, and satisfying lunch. The Greek yogurt makes it creamy, the chickpeas add heartiness, and the fresh dill and lemon brighten every bite. It’s a lighter spin on a classic that still delivers on flavor and comfort.
PrintTuna Salad Recipe without Mayo
This Tuna Salad without Mayo is a light, protein-packed alternative to the classic, made creamy with Greek yogurt and chickpeas. Fresh dill and lemon juice brighten the flavor, making it perfect for sandwiches, wraps, lettuce cups, or as a quick snack with crackers. Ready in just 10 minutes, it’s a healthy, satisfying meal you can prep ahead.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Salad, Lunch
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American, Mediterranean
Ingredients
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna packed in water, drained
- 1 cup canned chickpeas, drained and rinsed
- 1/2 cup fat-free plain Greek yogurt
- 1–2 tsp lemon juice (to taste)
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Drain tuna and chickpeas; place in a mixing bowl.
- Mash chickpeas slightly with a fork for a creamier texture.
- Add Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, salt, and pepper.
- Stir until well combined; adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve immediately or refrigerate until ready to use.
Notes
- Add diced celery or cucumber for crunch.
- Mix in chopped kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean twist.
- Add smoked paprika for warmth.
- Swap lemon juice for red wine vinegar for extra tang.
- Use dairy-free yogurt for a vegan-friendly version (with vegan tuna).
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1/2 of recipe
- Calories: 180
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fat: 3g
- Saturated Fat: 0.5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 24g
- Cholesterol: 30mg