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Day 2 Lunch: Tuna Salad + Diced Celery

Prep Time:

5 Minutes

Cook Time:

0 Minutes

Serves:

1

Level:

Beginner

About the Recipe

A creamy, protein-packed tuna salad made with simple, affordable ingredients, served over crisp lettuce for a light and satisfying lunch. This quick and easy dish is perfect for staying full without breaking the bank.

Ingredients

Tuna Salad:

  • 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained (packed in water or olive oil)

  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise (sugar-free, avocado oil preferred)

  • 2 tablespoons celery, finely diced

  • ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional for added zing)

  • Pinch of sea salt

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste


Lettuce Base:

  • 1 cup lettuce leaves (Romaine, iceberg, or any variety)

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil (optional for drizzling)

Preparation

Prepare the Tuna Salad:

  1. Drain the Tuna: Open and drain the canned tuna. Flake the tuna into a small mixing bowl using a fork.

  2. Add Mayonnaise & Celery: Add mayonnaise and diced celery to the bowl. Stir until the mixture is smooth and evenly combined.

  3. Season to Taste: Add a pinch of sea salt and black pepper. For extra zing, stir in Dijon mustard (if using).


Assemble the Salad:

  1. Prepare the Lettuce Base: Wash and pat dry the lettuce leaves. Arrange them neatly on a plate.

  2. Add Tuna Salad: Spoon the tuna mixture over the bed of lettuce.

  3. Optional Drizzle: Drizzle olive oil over the lettuce for added richness.


Tips to Make it Budget Friendly:

  • Buy Canned Tuna in Bulk: Purchase canned tuna in bulk when it’s on sale for a cost-effective protein option.

  • Use Store-Brand Mayonnaise: Store-brand or generic mayonnaise often costs less and delivers the same creamy texture. Just make sure to avoid seed oils!

  • Stretch Tuna with Extra Veggies: Add diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or pickles to bulk up the tuna salad without increasing protein costs.

  • Substitute Cabbage for Lettuce: Use shredded cabbage instead of lettuce for a more affordable and fiber-rich base.

  • Go for Frozen Celery: Freeze leftover celery and dice it when needed to reduce waste and save money.

  • Mix with Hard-Boiled Eggs: Stretch the tuna salad by mixing in a chopped hard-boiled egg for added protein and volume.


Simple Flavor Boost Options (Optional):

  • Lemon Zest & Dill: Add a sprinkle of fresh dill and lemon zest to brighten the tuna salad.

  • Pickle Relish Addition: Stir in a spoonful of sugar-free pickle relish for extra tang and crunch.

  • Chili Flakes & Paprika: Add a dash of chili flakes and a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a warm, smoky kick.

  • Avocado Mash Upgrade: Mix in a few slices of mashed avocado for extra creaminess and healthy fats.

  • Capers & Red Onion: Add capers and finely diced red onion for a briny, tangy boost.

  • Parmesan & Garlic Drizzle: Drizzle olive oil mixed with minced garlic and grated Parmesan over the lettuce for extra depth.


Recipes Created by BloodSugarChef.com

Meal Plan by American Diabetes Society

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