High-Protein • Low-Carb • 5-Minute Meal
Quick Description
A creamy, refreshing, ultra-high-protein tuna salad made with cottage cheese, lemon, crisp veggies, and a scoop of protein powder for an extra nutrient boost. Perfect for busy days, meal prep, or a high-protein snack that keeps you full for hours.
Servings & Timing
- Servings: 2
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 5 minutes
Ingredients List
- 1 can tuna in water, drained
- ½ cup cottage cheese (2% or 4% for creaminess)
- 1 scoop vanilla protein powder (unflavored also works)
- 1 tbsp light mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp diced onion
- 2 tbsp diced bell pepper
- 2 tbsp diced celery (optional)
- Squeeze of fresh lemon juice
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- Optional: chili flakes, dill, parsley
Instructions
Step 1 — Prep the Base
Drain tuna well and place it in a bowl. Break the tuna chunks apart using a fork.
Step 2 — Add Creaminess
Mix in cottage cheese, mayo/Greek yogurt, and lemon juice until creamy and smooth.
Step 3 — Add Protein Boost
Sprinkle in the protein powder and mix until fully blended.
Step 4 — Add Crunch & Flavor
Add onions, bell peppers, celery, salt, pepper, and any herbs you like.
Step 5 — Mix & Serve
Stir well until the salad is fully combined. Chill 10 minutes if you want it extra thick.
Additional Notes
- Cottage cheese acts like mayo but adds 25g+ protein.
- Protein powder thickens the salad and adds flavor.
- You can adjust texture with extra lemon or yogurt.
Dietary Info
- High-protein
- Low-carb
- Keto-friendly
- Gluten-free
Flavor Tips & Variations
- Add chopped pickles for a tangy crunch.
- Swap lemon for lime + chili flakes for spicy tuna.
- Add paprika or smoked paprika for smoky depth.
- Mix in chopped boiled egg for extra protein.
Ingredient Substitutions
- Cottage cheese → Greek yogurt
- Tuna → canned chicken or salmon
- Mayo → avocado or yogurt
- Vanilla protein → unflavored protein
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
- Serve in lettuce cups for a low-carb wrap.
- Spread on high-protein bread or a tortilla.
- Add to a bowl of mixed greens.
- Make a tuna melt using high-protein cheese.
