Tuna and Red Cabbage Salad with Sesame Dressing for Meal Prep
This tuna and red cabbage salad is fresh, crunchy, and full of flavour. With colourful vegetables and a sesame dressing, it makes a satisfying, high-protein meal you can easily prepare ahead for lunch or dinner.
Nutrition
- Calories 516kcal 90kcal
- Fat 27.3g 4.8g
- Carbs 32.9g 5.8g
- Protein 37.2g 6.5g
- Fibre 7.5g 1.3g
Ingredients
- Main Recipe
Dressing
Spoon measurements may change based on how you scoop the ingredients.
For the most accurate results and nutrition info, it’s best to use grams.
Method
Why I Like this Recipe
I enjoy this salad because it combines crisp vegetables, tender tuna, and a sesame dressing with a bit of heat. The red cabbage and cucumber keep it fresh and crunchy, and the tuna makes it filling but not too heavy. It comes together fast and stays good in the fridge, so it’s a good option for lunch or meal prep during a busy week.
Tips and Variations
- Try tuna in brine for a slightly saltier finish.
- Add chopped fresh chilli or extra sriracha if you prefer more heat.
- Add diced avocado for a creamier texture.
- Swap the tuna for grilled chicken.
- Stir in cooked quinoa or brown rice to make the salad more substantial.
- Keep the salad chilled until serving for the best texture.
Meal Storage
Keep the salad in an airtight container for up to 2 days. The cabbage will get a bit softer, but the flavour gets even better.
Freezer tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Cook the fresh tuna thoroughly, leave it to cool, then flake it into the salad. It will have a firmer texture and a slightly richer flavour than tinned tuna.
Store the salad in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The cabbage will gradually soften, but the salad will still taste fresh.
Hoisin sauce works well, although it has a sweeter flavour. You can also combine soy sauce with a small amount of honey or maple syrup.
It can be made gluten-free, but check every sauce carefully. Use certified gluten-free soy sauce or tamari and choose a gluten-free oyster sauce or suitable alternative.
Closing Note
This tuna and red cabbage salad is fresh, crunchy, and full of protein. It’s a simple choice for quick lunches, meal prep, or a balanced, fitness-friendly dinner. If you enjoy tuna salads, try tuna quinoa salad with crunchy vegetables too.
- 💪 High Protein
- ⏱️ Ready in 30
- 🚫 Not Freezer Friendly
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