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Delicious Protein-Packed Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe Without the Fishy Flavor

  • Writer: Up and Down Story
    Up and Down Story
  • May 15
  • 3 min read


Hand holding a cucumber boat filled with tuna salad. Background has a plant and a patterned cutting board, creating a fresh, homemade vibe.


Consuming enough protein is extremely important for recovery and muscle development. It’s particularly crucial for families with an active lifestyle! After school, sports practice, or a workout, your children (and you!) require a meal that’s both nutritious and fulfilling.


Today I’m introducing a recipe that’s ideal for the entire family: a “No-Fishiness” Tuna Salad Sandwich.


This tuna salad is not only incredibly easy to prepare, but it’s also rich in flavor and nutrients. Additionally, the ingredients are kid-friendly, making mealtimes enjoyable and hassle-free. The best part? There’s no fishy odor or taste, so even selective eaters will enjoy it. It’s a quick recipe that busy parents will truly appreciate.


Consider making a large batch—it’s versatile enough to be used in various ways, making it a convenient option for meal prep!


Let’s dive into this fantastic recipe.



🛒 Ingredients

• Two 5 oz cans of tuna

• 1/4 red onion

• Green onions

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• 1/2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt

• A pinch of salt

• 1/2 tsp sugar

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• Cucumber, bell pepper, or other veggies for serving



Three cans of tuna: yellow Safe Catch Ahi, blue Wild Planet Albacore, and a Kirkland Albacore box. Each features vivid branding.
I used wild-caught tuna from Costco- it’s fresh and perfect for this recipe!




🥣 Tuna Salad Sandwich Recipe (No Fishy Taste)


1. Finely dice 1/4 of a red onion and a small amount of green onion. These will provide crunch and a fragrant kick. If the onion is particularly strong, briefly soaking it in cold water before use can help. I suggest using red onion for its appealing color and milder taste compared to regular white onions.

2. Drain the tuna: Open 2 cans of tuna and use a strainer to completely drain the oil.


Shredded tuna in a clear bowl on a wooden surface with chopped green onions and red onions beside it, creating a fresh, preparation scene.



3. In a mixing bowl, combine:

• the tuna

• 1 tbsp minced garlic

• the chopped onion and green onion

• 1/2 tbsp mayonnaise

• 1 tbsp Greek yogurt

• 1/2 tsp sugar

• 1/2 tsp black pepper

• a pinch of salt


Mix well until everything is nicely combined.


📍 The pepper plays a big role here—it helps eliminate any fishiness. Garlic, onion, and green onion also do wonders to keep the flavors fresh and clean.

📍 Greek yogurt not only adds creaminess but also lets you cut back on mayo-perfect if you’re aiming for a healthier swap. It might take a little getting used to if you’re new to it, but it’s worth it for a healthier diet! Slowly transitioning from mayo to yogurt will help your family adjust naturally.



Glass bowl with tuna, chopped red onion, green onions, mayonnaise, and yogurt on a woven mat. Ingredients ready to mix.
I mixed Greek yogurt and mayonnaise in a 1:0.5 ratio and it wasn't strange, it was delicious.

4. Slice your cucumber in half and scoop out the seeds with a spoon.



Hands scooping out seeds from a cucumber on a patterned wooden cutting board, with green leaves in the background.



5. Serve up! Spoon the tuna salad onto the cucumber slices and enjoy.


📍 For kids, making a tuna salad sandwich with bread is likely the simplest and tastiest choice! 🥪

📍 If you're pressed for time, simply set out some crackers and let everyone add their own toppings. It's entertaining and efficient! 😄

📍 If you're mindful of carbs, consider wrapping the salad in lettuce, or serving it on cucumber or bell pepper slices. 🥒 It’s a flavorful way to enjoy it without bread. Let's move beyond the notion that sandwiches must include bread. Get creative!





Recipe Variations


▪︎ Add avocado – Creamy avocado takes this tuna salad to the next level.

▪︎ Add diced apple – It adds a natural sweetness and crunch, and you can even reduce the sugar when you add apple!

▪︎ Add hard-boiled eggs – Extra creaminess and even more protein. Honestly, what’s better than that?








🌿 This Recipe Is Ideal For…


• Anyone looking for a quick and easy protein boost after a workout

• Those on a diet who still want to enjoy delicious and satisfying meals

• Busy mornings when you need a filling meal quickly

• Times when you crave a light, refreshing, and nutritious dish, even if your appetite is low




It's incredible how a few simple ingredients can combine to create something so tasty and nutritious. I hope this recipe helps you (and your family) energize and feel your best.


Here's to a strong, healthy day-starting with one good meal. 💪💛

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