This 10-Minute Mediterranean Tuna Salad is a fresh, colorful, and protein-rich meal that comes together in minutes and delivers on both flavor and nutrition. Skipping the mayo in favor of a vibrant Dijon-lime vinaigrette, this salad is packed with crisp vegetables, briny Kalamata olives, and fragrant herbs. It’s perfect for lunch, light dinners, or meal prep—and can be served in pita bread, lettuce wraps, or over roasted vegetables.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This tuna salad is healthy, refreshing, and full of Mediterranean flavors. It’s incredibly versatile and works well as a main course, side, or filling. With no cooking required, it’s ideal for busy weekdays or warm-weather meals. The Dijon-lime dressing adds a tangy, zesty punch that complements the richness of the tuna and balances the crunch of the fresh vegetables.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Zesty Dijon Mustard Dressing:

• 2 ½ teaspoons Dijon mustard
• Zest of 1 lime
• Juice of 1 ½ limes
• ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
• ½ teaspoon sumac
• Pinch of kosher salt and black pepper
• ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Tuna Salad:

• 3 cans (5 ounces each) quality tuna, drained (Albacore or Yellowfin recommended)
• 2 ½ celery stalks, chopped
• ½ English cucumber, chopped
• 4–5 radishes, chopped
• 3 green onions, chopped (white and green parts)
• ½ medium red onion, finely chopped
• ½ cup pitted Kalamata olives, halved
• 1 bunch parsley, stems removed and chopped (about 1 cup)
• 10–15 fresh mint leaves, stems removed and finely chopped (about ½ cup)

directions

Make the Dressing:

1. In a small bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, lime zest, and lime juice.
2. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while whisking continuously to emulsify.
3. Add sumac, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Whisk until fully combined. Set aside.

Prepare the Tuna Salad:

1. In a large bowl, add drained tuna, chopped celery, cucumber, radishes, green onions, red onion, olives, parsley, and mint.
2. Gently mix the ingredients with a wooden spoon until evenly distributed.

Assemble the Salad:

1. Pour the prepared dressing over the tuna and vegetable mixture.
2. Gently toss until all ingredients are well coated.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to let the flavors meld.

Serve:

1. Toss again just before serving.
2. Serve chilled in pita bread, lettuce wraps, or over roasted tomatoes.

Servings and timing

Yield: 6 servings
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add grains: Mix in cooked quinoa, bulgur, or couscous for a heartier meal.
• Creamy twist: Add a dollop of Greek yogurt or tahini for a creamier texture.
• Spicy version: Add extra red pepper flakes or a dash of harissa paste.
• Swap herbs: Try fresh dill, basil, or cilantro in place of mint for a different herbal note.
• Add chickpeas: Boost protein and fiber by mixing in canned chickpeas.

storage/reheating

• Storage: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Not necessary—this salad is best served cold.
• Make-ahead: The dressing can be prepared up to 2 days in advance. Chop vegetables a day ahead and store separately until ready to mix.

FAQs

Can I use tuna in oil?

Yes, but you may want to reduce the olive oil in the dressing slightly to balance the fat content.

What can I substitute for sumac?

Lemon zest or a dash of vinegar can offer similar tanginess, though sumac provides a unique citrusy note.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free. Just ensure that the tuna brand used is certified gluten-free.

Can I add feta cheese?

Absolutely. Crumbled feta complements the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Is this a good meal prep option?

Yes, it keeps well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it excellent for meal prepping.

How do I serve it as a main dish?

Serve over grains, in pita bread, or with a side of hummus and roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I skip the olives?

Yes, feel free to omit or replace with capers for a similar briny kick.

What type of tuna is best?

Wild-caught Albacore or Yellowfin tuna offers the best flavor and texture for this salad.

Can I use bottled lime juice?

Fresh lime juice is recommended for the best flavor, but bottled lime juice can be used in a pinch.

Can I freeze this salad?

Freezing is not recommended, as the texture of the vegetables and herbs will be affected.

Conclusion

This 10-Minute Mediterranean Tuna Salad is a deliciously fresh, mayo-free twist on classic tuna salad. Full of vibrant vegetables, aromatic herbs, and a tangy Dijon-lime dressing, it’s the perfect combination of healthy, satisfying, and flavorful. Whether enjoyed in a wrap, on a salad plate, or straight from the bowl, this is a go-to recipe for easy lunches or light dinners that never feel like a compromise.

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