No-Mayo Mediterranean Tuna Salad
No-Mayo Mediterranean Tuna Salad is a fresh, vibrant take on classic tuna salad that lets clean flavors shine without relying on heavy mayonnaise. Instead of creaminess from mayo, this version uses extra virgin olive oil, bright lemon juice, and crisp vegetables to create a salad that feels light, satisfying, and full of texture. It is the kind of dish that works just as well for a quick lunch as it does for a healthy dinner or meal prep option.
Inspired by Mediterranean staples, this salad highlights ingredients like olives, tomatoes, herbs, and olive oil. The tuna provides protein, while the vegetables add crunch and color. A simple dressing brings everything together, keeping the focus on freshness rather than richness. Serve it on its own, over greens, or tucked into pita or lettuce cups for an easy, wholesome meal.
Prep time: 15 minutes
Chill time (optional): 10 minutes
Total time: 15–25 minutes
Servings: 4
Ingredients
Tuna
2 cans tuna (in water or olive oil), drained
Vegetables
1 cup cucumber, diced or chopped
1 cup cherry or grape tomatoes, halved or quartered
1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped or thinly sliced
1/3 cup olives (Kalamata or black), pitted and sliced
1/3 cup marinated artichoke hearts, drained and chopped (optional)
1/4 cup bell pepper, finely chopped (optional)
1/4 cup celery, chopped (optional)
Herbs & Seasoning
2 tablespoons fresh parsley and/or dill, chopped
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Dressing
3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice and/or lemon zest
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar (optional)
1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)
Optional Add-ins
1/3 cup crumbled feta cheese
Instructions
Drain the canned tuna well and place it in a large mixing bowl.
Use a fork to gently flake the tuna into bite-sized pieces.
Add cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and any optional vegetables you are using.
Sprinkle in the chopped fresh herbs.
In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice or zest, red wine vinegar if using, and Dijon mustard if using.
Season the dressing lightly with salt and black pepper.
Pour the dressing over the tuna and vegetables.
Gently toss until everything is evenly coated.
Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Add crumbled feta just before serving, if using.
Tips
Drain tuna thoroughly to avoid excess liquid.
Use high-quality olive oil for best flavor.
Chop vegetables evenly for balanced bites.
Add red onion sparingly to avoid overpowering the salad.
Lemon zest adds aroma without extra acidity.
Taste before adding salt, especially if using olives and feta.
Chill briefly before serving for a refreshing result.
Toss gently to keep tuna flakes intact.
Use fresh herbs for brightness.
Serve the same day for best texture.
Variations
Add cooked quinoa for a heartier salad.
Swap tuna for canned salmon.
Add capers for extra briny flavor.
Use arugula or spinach as a base.
Replace lemon with red wine vinegar only.
Add avocado for creaminess without mayo.
Include chickpeas for extra protein.
Use basil instead of parsley for a different herb note.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for depth.
Make it spicy with chili flakes.
Q&A
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, it keeps well refrigerated for up to 2 days.
Does it taste dry without mayo?
No, olive oil and lemon keep it moist and flavorful.
Can I use tuna in olive oil?
Yes, just adjust added oil slightly.
Is this salad low-carb?
Yes, especially without grains.
Can I skip olives?
Yes, though they add classic Mediterranean flavor.
What can I serve it with?
Pita, crackers, lettuce cups, or toast.
Is it kid-friendly?
Yes, with mild seasoning.
Can I make it dairy-free?
Simply skip the feta cheese.
How long does it last?
Up to 48 hours in the fridge.
Can I add pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes work well.
Nutrition
(Approximate per Serving)
Calories: 280
Protein: 26g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 8g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Conclusion
No-Mayo Mediterranean Tuna Salad is a simple, refreshing dish that proves tuna salad does not need mayonnaise to be delicious. With bright vegetables, fresh herbs, and a light olive oil dressing, it delivers flavor, nutrition, and versatility in every bite. Whether you enjoy it for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, this salad is a dependable option that feels wholesome, modern, and satisfying without being heavy.