Dairy-Free Tuna Salad Sandwich for the Nativity Fast

Looking for a protein-packed, dairy-free recipe to enjoy during the Nativity fast? This dairy-free tuna salad has become a staple in our household. Not only is it easy to make, but it's also a healthy option we enjoy year-round, offering a delicious break from the typical fasting routine. Packed with lean protein, fiber, and essential nutrients, it’s a recipe you and your family will look forward to all season.

❤️ Why You Will Love This Recipe

This recipe is a lifesaver for busy Orthodox families during the fasting season. It’s super easy, quick, and perfect for keeping everyone nourished—yes, even picky eaters. The creamy texture from vegan mayonnaise pairs wonderfully with the crunch of celery and the tang of sweet pickle relish, creating a dish that feels indulgent but aligns perfectly with the fasting guidelines.

With canned tuna as the star ingredient, this healthy meal provides a great source of lean protein, essential for staying energized throughout the day. It's also packed with fresh veggies like red onion and celery, offering additional fiber and vitamins. Whether you serve it as a sandwich, on a bed of lettuce, or tucked into cucumber slices, this tuna salad is a great option for a light lunch or quick snack.

🥗 Ingredients

1 - Key Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this simple recipe:

• 4 (5-ounce) cans tuna, water packed tuna, drained
• 1 cup vegan mayonnaise (or less, to taste)
• ⅓ cup celery, finely chopped (about 1 rib)
• 3 tablespoons red onion, minced (about 2 small slices)
• 2 tablespoons sweet pickle relish
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste

2 - Variations

Looking to mix things up? Here are some variations to the full recipe:

• Substitute dill relish or chopped dill pickles for the sweet relish for a tangier flavor.
• Add finely diced red bell pepper or green onions for extra crunch and color.
• Include a pinch of garlic powder or fresh dill for a different flavor profile.
• Mix in nori sheets, finely shredded, for a subtle seafood kick reminiscent of Mediterranean tuna salad recipes.

🥣 Instructions

1 - Step by Step Instructions

1. Prepare the ingredients: Drain the canned tuna and add it to a large mixing bowl.
2. Combine: Add the vegan mayonnaise, celery, red onion, sweet pickle relish, fresh lemon juice, and minced garlic.
3. Season: Sprinkle in salt and freshly ground black pepper. Adjust to taste.
4. Mix: Stir everything together until well combined, ensuring a creamy texture.
5. Serve: Enjoy immediately or chill in an airtight container for later.

2 - Cooking Tips & Serving Suggestions

• For the best tuna salad, use high-quality, wild-caught tuna or a trusted brand like Safe Catch.
• Add a splash of extra virgin olive oil for a richer flavor.
• Serve on your favorite healthy bread (I recommend fluffy Naan bread), as an open-face tuna melt, or in tuna lettuce wraps for a low-carb option.
• Garnish with fresh parsley or a sprinkle of celery seeds for a pop of flavor.

🥶 Storage Instructions

1 - Storing your Fresh Dairy Free Tuna Salad

Preparing a batch of tuna salad for the week or month is a great way to save time and keep mealtime stress-free. Here’s how to meal prep and store properly:

1. Plan Your Weekly Quantities:
   • Start by determining how many sandwiches or servings your household will need per week. A typical serving size is ½ cup of tuna salad, which is enough for one sandwich.
   • Multiply by the number of people eating per day and the days of the week you plan to serve it. For example, if you’re making lunch for 4 people for 3 days, you’ll need 6 cups for the week.
2. Divide for Storage:
   • Refrigerator: Store enough tuna salad for the upcoming 4 days in an airtight container. This ensures freshness while preventing spoilage.
   • Freezer: Divide the remaining salad into portions equal to your weekly needs. Place each portion in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn.
3. Extend Shelf Life:
   • In the fridge, keep the container tightly sealed to avoid excess moisture, which can make the salad watery.
   • In the freezer, use small, flat containers or freezer bags, which freeze quickly and evenly, helping preserve texture. Label each with the date for easy tracking.

2 - Thawing Without a Watery Mix

Thawing tuna salad properly is essential to avoid a watery mixture. Follow these tips:

1. Thaw Slowly: Place a frozen portion in the fridge overnight. This gradual thawing prevents the salad from becoming soggy.
2. Stir Before Serving: Once thawed, give the mixture a good stir to redistribute moisture evenly. If it feels too wet, add a bit of finely chopped celery or carrots to absorb excess liquid and add crunch.
3. Don’t Microwave: Avoid microwaving frozen tuna salad, as it can alter the texture and make it too watery.

Pro Tip

If you’re planning for the month, freeze portions based on weekly needs and thaw one portion at a time. This ensures your dairy free tuna salad is always fresh, full of flavor, and ready to make good tuna salad sandwiches for the whole family!

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🍴 Side Dishes

Here are three delicious side dishes to serve tuna salad without mayo with:

1. Crispy Bell Pepper Strips: Add crunch and color to your plate with fresh red, yellow, or green bell peppers.
2. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Serve wedges of roasted sweet potatoes seasoned with paprika and garlic powder for a hearty side.
3. Greek Salad: Combine fresh veggies, Kalamata olives, and a simple dressing of red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil for a refreshing complement.

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📝 Recipe Card

💡 Final Takeaway

This healthy tuna salad dairy free recipe is everything you need for busy days when you’re craving something easy, tasty, and satisfying. With its simple ingredients like light tuna, fresh herbs, and vegan mayonnaise, this is a great recipe that’s as versatile as it is delicious. Whether you’re trying it as an open-face tuna melt, tucked into lettuce wraps, or tossed with pasta for a quick tuna pasta salad, you’ll love the creamy tuna salad texture and mild flavor that hits all the right notes.

The best part? You can customize it! Add a dollop of Dijon mustard for a sharper kick or some creamy avocado for a rich, plant-based twist. This isn’t just a mayo tuna salad recipe—it’s a great substitute for those looking for a fresh take on classic tuna salad recipes.

And full disclosure: with a good shelf life and endless different ways to enjoy it, this is one dish you’ll keep coming back to for a healthy lunch or light dinner. Don’t forget to pin this healthy tuna salad recipe card for the next time your taste buds are craving the comfort of a traditional tuna salad with a modern twist. Try it with your favorite kind of tuna—whether it’s Wild Planet or another safe catch brand—and enjoy this good source of protein on your fasting journey!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions