The Easiest High-Protein Tuna Salad
- Lauren Morgan
- 11 hours ago
- 2 min read
Pantry Meal Prep Staple
This is one of those recipes I almost hesitate to call a “recipe” because it’s so simple, but it’s one I make constantly. It is high protein. It’s healthy. It takes 10 minutes. And almost everything comes straight from the pantry, or at least items I always have on hand!
The secret to making it taste next level? A little olive oil, a touch of fresh lemon zest and kalamata olives. Those two small additions completely transform it. Trust me, its life changing.
My Favorite Pantry Tuna Salad
Ingredients
5 cans tuna, drained well
Juice of 1 lemon
A little lemon zest (about ½–1 teaspoon)
½ cup plain Greek yogurt
¼ cup mayonnaise
1 tablespoon olive oil
1–2 stalks celery, finely chopped
Handful of chopped kalamata olives
Freshly cracked black pepper
Optional: pinch of salt (depending on how salty your tuna and olives are)
Why These Additions Matter
Olive oil adds richness and gives the salad a smoother, more luxurious texture.
Lemon zest brightens everything without adding extra acidity.
Greek yogurt keeps it high-protein and light.
A little mayo keeps it creamy and balanced.
Kalamata olives add salty depth.
Celery gives the crunch.
It’s simple ingredients — but layered thoughtfully.
How to Make It
Drain the tuna very well and flake it in a large bowl.
Add Greek yogurt, mayo, olive oil, lemon juice, and lemon zest.
Stir until creamy and combined.
Fold in chopped celery and kalamata olives.
Finish with plenty of freshly cracked black pepper.
Taste and adjust — more lemon if you like it bright, more pepper if you like a little kick.
Why It’s Perfect for Meal Prep
Ready in under 10 minutes
High protein
Pantry-friendly
No cooking required
It’s one of those meals that saves you when you don’t feel like thinking.
How I Eat It
On toasted sourdough
Wrapped in lettuce cups
Stuffed into a pita
Over a big green salad
With crackers or sliced cucumbers
Straight from the fridge with a fork (no judgment)
I hope you absolutely love this one as much as I do. It’s simple, nourishing, and such a reliable staple for busy weeks.
If you make it, I’d love to see it — tag me so I can share your creations and cheer you on in your kitchen. 💛 @weeknight_homemaker
With Love,
Lauren
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