Italian Tuna Salad

This Italian Tuna Salad is a fresh, vibrant twist on traditional tuna salad—no mayonnaise required. Dressed in olive oil and lemon juice, it’s packed with Mediterranean flavor thanks to chopped vegetables, garlic, olives, and parsley. Light, low in carbs, and high in protein, it’s a perfect choice for anyone following a keto lifestyle or simply seeking a healthy, satisfying lunch.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• No mayonnaise—just clean, simple ingredients

• Naturally low in carbs and keto-friendly

• Fresh, bold Mediterranean flavors

• Quick to prepare—ready in 10 minutes

• Great for meal prep or served in sandwiches or lettuce wraps

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 2 cans Yellowfin tuna in olive oil (not drained)

• 1 to 1¼ cups diced tomato, drained

• ½ cup chopped fresh parsley

• 3 ounces black olives, sliced

• ½ large yellow bell pepper, diced

• ¼ cup finely diced red onion

• ¼ cup chopped green olives (without pimento)

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

• ¼ teaspoon sea salt

Directions

1. Open the tuna cans into a large bowl. Gently flake the tuna with a fork, keeping some texture.

2. Add the diced tomato, parsley, black olives, yellow pepper, red onion, green olives, minced garlic, lemon juice, and sea salt.

3. Mix gently until all ingredients are combined, being careful not to overwork the tuna.

4. Serve immediately as a salad or use it to fill sandwiches or wraps. Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Servings and timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Swap Yellowfin for Albacore if you prefer a milder tuna

• Add capers for extra briny flavor

• Include diced cucumber or avocado for a refreshing twist

• Use cherry tomatoes instead of diced for a sweeter bite

• Add chopped artichoke hearts or sun-dried tomatoes

• Toss with cooked pasta for a Mediterranean tuna pasta salad

• Sprinkle with chili flakes for a bit of heat

• Use it as a filling for lettuce wraps for a low-carb lunch

• Add a few anchovy fillets for umami depth

• Mix in a spoonful of Dijon mustard for a sharp tang

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover Italian Tuna Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This salad is best served cold and does not require reheating. Stir gently before serving to redistribute the olive oil.

FAQs

Can I make this tuna salad ahead of time?

Yes, this salad can be made a day in advance. Just refrigerate in a sealed container and stir before serving.

Do I need to drain the tuna?

No, use the olive oil from the tuna to help dress the salad naturally. It’s full of flavor and healthy fats.

Can I use canned tuna in water instead?

Yes, but you’ll need to add extra olive oil to make up for the missing richness and flavor.

Is this recipe keto?

Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in protein and healthy fats, making it ideal for a keto or low-carb diet.

Can I make this without olives?

Absolutely. Feel free to skip the olives or replace them with ingredients like capers or diced pickles.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, it’s completely gluten-free as written. Just serve it without bread or with gluten-free options.

What kind of tomatoes should I use?

Diced Roma or plum tomatoes work best since they’re firm and not too watery. Be sure to drain them before adding.

Can I add cheese to this salad?

Sure! Crumbled feta or shaved Parmesan pairs well with the other ingredients.

How can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes, a chopped jalapeño, or a splash of hot sauce for some heat.

Can I serve this salad warm?

It’s best served cold or at room temperature, but you can gently warm it slightly if preferred—just don’t cook it.

Conclusion

This Italian Tuna Salad is proof that healthy food can be bold, flavorful, and satisfying. With fresh vegetables, rich olive oil, and the brightness of lemon juice, it’s a refreshing take on traditional tuna salad—no mayo required. Whether you’re following a keto diet or just want a clean, delicious lunch, this Mediterranean-inspired recipe delivers every time.