Looking for a quick, tasty, and healthy lunch that’s low-carb and packed with flavor? My Keto Tuna Salad with Apple and Pumpkin Seeds is a total win! With crunchy apple, creamy tuna, and a sprinkle of pumpkin seeds, it’s the perfect balance of freshness and heartiness that’ll keep you fueled and satisfied. Trust me, you’re going to love this easy, keto tuna salad recipe that’s as wholesome as it is delicious!
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This salad would pair great with Crispy Air Fryer Beet Chips and a delicious Passion Fruit Juice.
Why This Recipe Works
- This Keto Tuna Salad is a lifesaver for busy days! It’s super quick to whip up, keeps well for meal prep, and has that perfect blend of protein and crunch to keep you satisfied without the extra carbs.
- Plus, it’s packed with nutrient-dense ingredients that are as nourishing as they are flavorful. Perfect for anyone craving a guilt-free lunch that’s fresh, filling, and absolutely delicious!"
⭐ Star Ingredients
- Spinach: Packs a punch of nutrition and vibrant green color.
- Apple: Adds a crisp sweetness that brightens every bite.
- Lettuce: Delivers a refreshing crunch to the salad.
- Canned Tuna: Provides a hearty source of protein.
- Mayonnaise: Offers creaminess that binds the ingredients together.
- Sliced Red Onion: Fresh onions infuse a sharp, zesty kick.
- Pumpkin Seeds: Bring a nutty crunch and extra nutrients.
- Dill: Lends a fresh, herby note to the mix.
- Chopped Pickled Cucumber: Adds a tangy twist for depth of flavor.
- Salt: Enhances and balances the overall taste.
For the complete list of ingredients with measurements and instructions, please see the recipe card at the bottom of the post.
📖 Substitutions & Variations
- Tangy pop—capers or a splash of lemon juice for a lil’ zing.
- Extra crunch—swap pumpkin seeds for sunflower seeds or toss in celery.
- Creamy switch—mix in Greek yogurt for a lighter, tangy twist.
- Protein power—hard-boiled eggs or cheddar cubes = extra yum.
- Herb love—fresh dill, parsley, or chives make it extra fresh.
- Savory boost—a drizzle of olive or avocado oil for a silky finish!
🔪 How To Make Keto Tuna Salad
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- Step 1: In a bowl, combine the canned tuna with chopped red onion and finely chopped pickled cucumber.
- Step 2: Add in the chopped dill and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- Step 3: In a serving bowl, toss together spinach, lettuce, sliced apples, and a handful of pumpkin seeds.
- Step 4: Place the tuna mixture on top of the salad. Do not stir. Sprinkle more pumpkin seeds over the top and enjoy!
👩🍳 Expert Tips
- Choose Crisp, Fresh Lettuce – Use romaine or butter lettuce leaves to give a sturdy, fresh base for your salad. This adds crunch and makes it easier to scoop up every delicious bite.
- Dice the Apple Finely – Keep apple pieces small to add a hint of sweetness without overpowering the keto balance. This also helps you enjoy a bit of apple in each forkful while keeping the carbs in check.
- Toast the Pumpkin Seeds – Lightly toasting the pumpkin seeds can bring out a rich, nutty flavor that makes the salad even tastier. Just a couple of minutes in a dry skillet will do the trick.
- Chill Before Serving – Letting the salad sit in the fridge for 10-15 minutes allows the flavors to meld. This makes it taste even better when you’re ready to serve!
💭 FAQs
Yes, you can make a tuna salad with fresh tuna fish. Cook the fresh tuna by grilling or searing it to your liking. Once cooled, flake the tuna and mix it with your favorite salad ingredients for a delicious, fresh twist on the classic recipe.
Yes, you can add mustard to tuna salad. It enhances the flavor by adding a tangy kick. Mix a small amount of your favorite mustard into the salad for an extra burst of taste. I like to add mustard and dill pickles when I have them in stock.
Yes, eggs are keto-friendly because they are low in carbs and high in protein. You can make a keto tuna salad by mixing eggs, tuna, and mayonnaise. It’s simple, tasty, and perfect for a keto diet!
Transfer the salad to an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. It’s best enjoyed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness.
I wouldn’t recommend freezing this tuna salad recipe. You can however freeze leftover tuna flakes separately to use another day.
🧂Serving Suggestions
- Serve with Avocado Slices: Add some creamy avocado slices on the side to enhance the healthy fats and add a smooth texture to balance the crunch of the salad.
- Pair with Cucumber Chips: Serve the salad with crunchy cucumber chips or keto-friendly crackers for an extra layer of crunch that complements the tuna salad.
- Enjoy with Cauliflower Rice: For a more filling meal, pair this tuna salad with cauliflower rice for a low-carb, satisfying side.
- Top with Hard-Boiled Eggs: Add some sliced hard-boiled eggs on top of the salad for an additional protein boost and richness.
🍽 More Fantastic Salad Recipes
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Keto Tuna Salad With Apple and Pumpkin Seeds
Ingredients
- 1 Cup Spinach
- 2 Apple
- 1 Cup Lettuce
- 1 Cup Canned Tuna
- ¼ Cup Mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoon Red Onion Sliced
- 2 tablespoon Pumpkin Seeds
- 1 tablespoon Dill
- 1 tablespoon Pickled Cucumber Chopped
- ½ teaspoon Salt
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine the canned tuna with chopped red onion and finely chopped pickled cucumber.
- Add in the chopped dill and a pinch of salt. Mix well.
- In a serving bowl, toss together spinach, lettuce, sliced apples, and a handful of pumpkin seeds.
- Place the tuna mixture on top of the salad. Do not stir. Sprinkle more pumpkin seeds over the top and enjoy!
Notes
Nutrition
Try These Tasty Salad Recipes
- Peach Caprese Salad With Blueberries
- Roasted Butternut Squash Salad
- Instant Pot Feta Pasta Salad
- Kale Apple Salad With Pomegranates
- Charred Corn Salad With Tomatoes
- Beet Salad With Feta And Walnuts
Love the crunch from the pumpkin seeds and the sweetness of the apple—such a refreshing twist on classic tuna salad!