10-Minute Crunchy Cucumber Tuna Salad – A Protein

You know those days when you need lunch now, but you also want it to actually taste fresh and satisfying? That’s exactly why I fell in love with this cucumber tuna salad. It started as a desperate fridge raid one hectic Tuesday—tuna, Greek yogurt, and cucumbers were all I had. Ten minutes later? Magic happened. The crisp cucumbers became these perfect little boats cradling the lightest, dill-kissed tuna filling. Now it’s my go-to for meal prep—I make a batch while my morning coffee brews. The secret? That bright pop of lemon against the cool crunch. No sad desk lunches here!

Why You’ll Love This Cucumber Tuna Salad

Listen, this isn’t just another sad sandwich alternative—it’s a crunchy, protein-packed lifesaver! Here’s why I’m obsessed (and you will be too):

• Speed demon: Done faster than your microwave can ding—10 minutes flat, no stove required.
• Protein powerhouse: That tuna packs 18g of muscle fuel per serving, perfect for post-workout or beating the 3 p.m. slump.
• Crunch therapy: Cucumber boats give that satisfying fresh bite that lettuce wraps just can’t match.
• Keto’s BFF: Only 6g net carbs? Your low-carb meal plan just found its new staple.
• Meal-prep magic: Whip up a batch Sunday and grab-n-go for three days (I stash the filling separately to keep the cucumbers crisp).
• No mayo drama: Greek yogurt keeps it light but creamy, with a tang that wakes up your taste buds.
• Play with flavors: Swap dill for chives, add hot sauce, or crumble some feta—it’s your kitchen, your rules!

Trust me, once you try this, you’ll be like me—hoarding cans of tuna and cucumbers like they’re gold. Bonus? It pairs perfectly with those fancy sous-vide chicken breasts from my favorite meal delivery service when I’m extra lazy!

Ingredients for Cucumber Tuna Salad

Alright, let’s gather the good stuff! Here’s what you’ll need for the crispiest, most satisfying cucumber tuna salad:

• 2 medium cucumbers (look for firm ones with dull skin—they’re the crunchiest!)
• 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained well (I like chunk light for texture, but solid white works too)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt, not drained (full-fat for creaminess, but nonfat works in a pinch)
• 1 tbsp fresh lemon juice (about half a lemon—trust me, bottled just isn’t the same)
• 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped fine (don’t even think about dried—it’s worth the herb aisle trip!)
• 1/4 tsp salt (I use flaky sea salt, but whatever’s handy)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper, freshly cracked (because pre-ground pepper is basically dust)

Ingredient Notes & Swaps

Here’s where you can make this recipe your own! Greek yogurt keeps it light, but if you’re team mayo, go for 2-3 tbsp instead—just add lemon gradually so it doesn’t get gloppy. Seedless cucumbers (like English or Persian) save time, but if you’re using regular ones, just scrape those seeds out good. For extra crunch, toss in 1/4 cup chopped celery or red onion (soak the onion in cold water first to mellow the bite). And if you’re pressed for time? My favorite meal delivery service sends pre-chopped veggies—total game-changer for lazy meal prep days!

How to Make Cucumber Tuna Salad

Grab your favorite mixing bowl and let’s make magic happen! This 10-minute cucumber tuna salad comes together faster than you can say “lunch is served.” Here’s how I do it:

1. Prep the cucumbers: Slice them lengthwise and run a spoon down the center to scoop out the seeds – don’t toss those seeds though! (I snack on them while I cook.)
2. Drain the tuna: Press it gently with paper towels to remove extra liquid – soggy tuna is sad tuna.
3. Mix it up: In your bowl, combine the tuna, Greek yogurt, lemon juice, dill, salt and pepper. Stir until just combined – overmixing makes it mushy.
4. Stuff those boats: Pile the tuna mixture high into your cucumber halves. I like to use a small ice cream scoop for perfect portions every time.
5. Garnish and go: Sprinkle with extra dill or a squeeze of lemon if you’re feeling fancy.

See? Easier than grabbing takeout! The whole process takes less time than waiting for the microwave at the office break room.

Meal-Prep Tips for Cucumber Tuna Salad

Want to make this ahead? Smart move! Keep the tuna mix in an airtight container and store the cucumber boats separately – they’ll stay crisp for 2 days this way. Perfect for portion-controlled lunches if you’re following weight loss programs. When ready to eat, I just scoop about 1/4 cup of filling per cucumber half – no soggy veggie sadness!

Serving Ideas for Cucumber Tuna Salad

Okay, let’s make this lunch look as good as it tastes! First, the classic: arrange those stuffed cucumber boats on a bed of leafy greens—instant Pinterest-perfect plating. For a keto-friendly crunch, serve with almond flour crackers or crispy cheese crisps. Pack it all in a meal prep container with grape tomatoes for color, and suddenly your work lunch looks like it came from a fancy meal delivery service!

Nutritional Benefits of Cucumber Tuna Salad

Let’s talk about why this cucumber tuna salad is basically a superhero in lunch form! Each crunchy bite gives you 18g of protein from the tuna – that’s more than some protein shakes. The Greek yogurt adds creaminess without loading up on calories, and cucumbers bring that refreshing crunch with barely any carbs (just 6g net carbs per serving!). Perfect if you’re watching your intake or following keto meal plans.

The best part? It’s packed with nutrients – vitamin D from the tuna, probiotics from the yogurt, and hydration from all those cucumber slices. I always keep the nutrition labels from my ingredients (especially the Greek yogurt brand I use) because counts can vary. And hey, if you need gluten-free options, some amazing meal delivery services now offer pre-portioned tuna salads with all the same fresh flavors!

FAQ: Cucumber Tuna Salad

Share Your Cucumber Tuna Salad Creation

I’d love to see your twist on this recipe! Snap a pic of those gorgeous cucumber boats and share it on my Pinterest—nothing makes me happier than seeing your kitchen creations. Happy crunching!

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