Gluten-Free Keto Cold Tuna Noodle Salad
Fresh zucchini ribbons replace traditional pasta in this protein-rich keto salad that combines flaked tuna with cherry tomatoes, baby spinach, and capers. The bright lemon-dill dressing adds Mediterranean flair while keeping carbs minimal. Perfect for meal prep lunches or light summer dinners when you want something satisfying without the heaviness of pasta. The zucchini ribbons provide satisfying texture that mimics noodles while absorbing the tangy dressing beautifully.
Ingredients
- 4 Cherry Tomato
- 2 ½ ounce Canned Tuna
- 2 teaspoon Lemon Juice
- 1 large Zucchini
- 1 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 cup Baby Spinach
- 1 medium Scallions
- 1 teaspoon Capers, whole pieces
- ½ tablespoon Dill Weed, Fresh
- ⅛ teaspoon Salt, Sea Salt
- ⅛ teaspoon Black Pepper
Instructions
- 1
Slice ends from zucchini, peel outer skin and discard
- 2
Peel zucchini flesh into wide ribbons and add to large serving dish
- 3
Quarter tomatoes, roughly chop spinach and thinly slice scallions
- 4
Add tomatoes, spinach, scallions and capers to zucchini ribbons and toss to combine
- 5
Flake tuna into salad and stir through
- 6
Finely chop dill and add to small mixing bowl with lemon juice, olive oil, salt and pepper
- 7
Stir dressing to combine
- 8
Drizzle dressing over salad and stir well, coating ribbons
- 9
Leave to stand for 10 minutes before serving
Tips
Use a vegetable peeler or spiralizer to create even zucchini ribbons for the best noodle-like texture.
Let the salad rest for 10 minutes to allow the zucchini to soften slightly and absorb the dressing flavors.
Pat the tuna dry before flaking to prevent excess moisture from diluting the dressing.
Good to Know
Refrigerate covered for up to 2 days. Zucchini may release water over time.
Can be made up to 4 hours ahead. Store dressing separately if making further in advance.
Serve chilled or at room temperature. Great for meal prep containers.
Common Mistakes
Slice zucchini just before serving to avoid excess water release that dilutes dressing.
Don't overdress the salad as zucchini will release moisture and thin the dressing.
Substitutions
FAQ
Can I make this salad ahead of time?
Yes, prepare up to 4 hours ahead but store dressing separately. Assemble just before serving to prevent zucchini from releasing too much water.
What if my zucchini ribbons are too watery?
Pat zucchini ribbons dry with paper towels before adding dressing. You can also lightly salt them and let drain for 10 minutes, then pat dry.
Can I freeze this tuna salad?
Not recommended as zucchini becomes mushy when frozen and thawed. The texture will be compromised and watery after freezing.