Every Christmas growing up, my mom would set out platters of tuna canapés among the sea of sugar cookies and fudge. While the kids rushed for sweets, I’d sneak little bites of the savory treats—creamy tuna, bits of celery, kissed with lemon, all stacked on crunchy slices of baguette. Years later, I realize those high protein tuna snacks were her quiet way of fueling us through busy December days. Now, whenever the holidays feel hectic and I want something festive but grounding, I pull out these 14+ Christmas tuna recipes high protein ideas. They’re not just practical weekday dinners—they’re a little nostalgic, always brightened by a handful of fresh herbs or a squeeze of citrus, and perfect for making sure the holiday table has a few grown-up, nutrient-packed options.
1. Festive Tuna-Stuffed Mini Peppers
Why You’ll Love It:
These colorful tuna-stuffed mini peppers make any holiday platter look a little cheerier, and they’re protein-packed finger food that disappears quickly at parties. Kids and adults both love the crunch, and you can make the filling ahead to save time on the busy day-of.
Serving size: Serves 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
12 mini bell peppers, halved and seeded 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna packed in water, drained 1/3 cup Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 2 tablespoons chopped celery 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley 1/4 teaspoon black pepper Pinch red pepper flakes
How to Make It:
- Mix tuna, Greek yogurt, mayo, celery, lemon juice, parsley, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Spoon the tuna mix into each pepper half, mounding gently.
- Sprinkle with red pepper flakes and extra parsley.
- Arrange on a serving platter and chill until serving.
Optional Enhancers (choose 1–2):
Flavor Boost: Stir a spoonful of Dijon mustard into the tuna before filling.
Meal Prep Tip: Make the filling up to 2 days in advance and stuff peppers just before serving.
2. Holiday Tuna & Quinoa Salad With Cranberries
Why You’ll Love It:
This bright, tangy salad is hearty enough for lunch but sparkles with holiday flavors. The cranberries add a festive touch, and the combo of tuna and quinoa means serious staying power. It’s great as a side for potlucks or a lighter main for busy December weeks.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
1 cup quinoa 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained 1/2 cup dried cranberries 1/4 cup chopped toasted pecans 2 cups arugula 1/4 cup chopped parsley 3 tablespoons olive oil 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar 1 tablespoon maple syrup Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Cook quinoa according to package and cool.
- In a bowl, whisk olive oil, vinegar, maple syrup, salt and pepper.
- Combine cooled quinoa, tuna, cranberries, pecans, arugula, and parsley in a large bowl.
- Drizzle on the dressing and toss gently.
Flavor Boost: Add crumbled feta to the salad for richness.
Serving Idea: Serve on a large platter for a buffet-style holiday table.
3. Tuna & Spinach Savory Christmas Wreath
Why You’ll Love It:
If you want something show-stopping but secretly simple, this wreath-shaped bread ring filled with tuna, spinach, and cheese is perfect. It pulls apart for sharing and is always a conversation starter at Christmas brunch.
Serving size: Serves 8
Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
1 lb pizza dough 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in olive oil, drained 1 cup fresh baby spinach, chopped 1 cup shredded mozzarella 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan 1 tablespoon chopped chives 1 egg, beaten 1 teaspoon olive oil Fresh rosemary and cherry tomatoes for garnish
How to Make It:
- Roll dough into a 12×16-inch rectangle on parchment paper.
- Mix tuna, spinach, mozzarella, Parmesan, and chives in a bowl.
- Spread filling in a log along one long edge, then roll up and pinch edges.
- Form into a ring and join ends. Brush with egg wash.
- Bake at 400°F for 25 minutes.
- Garnish with rosemary and cherry tomatoes.
Serving Idea: Surround with mixed olives and extra cherry tomatoes for a party platter.
Swap This With That: Use thawed frozen spinach if fresh isn’t available.
4. Classic Tuna Nicoise Christmas Platter
Why You’ll Love It:
The Nicoise platter is timeless, healthy, and festive with all those jewel-like veggies. It’s perfect for holiday gatherings because everyone can build their perfect plate, and it’s rich in both protein and color.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
8 oz sushi-grade tuna steak OR 2 cans tuna in olive oil 1/2 lb baby potatoes, halved 1 cup green beans, trimmed 4 hard-boiled eggs, halved 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1/2 cup kalamata olives 1/4 cup chopped dill 2 tablespoons olive oil Juice of 1 lemon Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Boil baby potatoes until tender, then toss with oil, salt, and pepper.
- Blanch green beans in boiling water for 2 minutes, then cool.
- Slice seared tuna (or use canned) and arrange on a platter with potatoes, beans, eggs, tomatoes, and olives.
- Drizzle with lemon juice and sprinkle with dill.
Flavor Boost: Add anchovy fillets for a classic touch.
Best Pairings: Sourdough rolls, light white wine, roasted carrots.
5. Cheesy Tuna & Broccoli Christmas Casserole
Why You’ll Love It:
This is my go-to when I want cozy comfort that happens to be packed with protein and green veggies. It’s cheesy enough for kids, and leftovers make an epic quick lunch the next day.
Serving size: Serves 6
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained 3 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen) 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 1 cup cooked brown rice 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt 1/2 cup milk 1/4 cup grated Parmesan 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 1 teaspoon garlic powder Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Steam broccoli just until bright green.
- In a large bowl, mix tuna, broccoli, cooked rice, yogurt, milk, garlic powder, 3/4 cup cheddar, salt and pepper.
- Spread into greased casserole dish and top with remaining cheddar and Parmesan.
- Bake at 375°F for 35 minutes.
- Sprinkle with extra parsley.
Budget-Friendly Tip: Use frozen broccoli and pre-shredded cheese for savings.
Meal Prep Tip: Assemble the day before and bake just before eating.
6. Tuna Avocado Christmas Toasts
Why You’ll Love It:
These are the ultimate Christmas brunch bites—creamy avocado, zesty tuna, and plenty of protein, all on a simple sourdough toast. They’re pretty, filling, and festive enough for a holiday spread.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
4 slices sourdough bread 2 ripe avocados 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in olive oil, drained 1 tablespoon lemon juice 2 tablespoons chopped scallion 1/4 teaspoon black pepper 1/4 cup diced red bell pepper 1/4 cup microgreens
How to Make It:
- Toast the bread slices.
- Mash avocado with lemon juice and spread on each toast.
- Stir together tuna, scallion, and black pepper.
- Top each toast with tuna, diced red bell pepper, and microgreens.
Flavor Boost: Add a splash of hot sauce to the tuna.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t skip draining the tuna thoroughly—it keeps the toast from getting soggy.
7. Herbed Christmas Tuna Cakes With Lemon Aioli
Why You’ll Love It:
These crisp-on-the-outside tuna cakes are irresistible hot or cold. The lemony dip makes them totally holiday-party worthy. Perfect for prepping ahead or making as a quick weeknight meal.
Serving size: Serves 5
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 27 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained 1 egg 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons chopped dill 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon mayonnaise 1 teaspoon lemon zest Oil for pan-frying For Lemon Aioli: 1/4 cup mayonnaise 1 tablespoon lemon juice Pinch garlic powder
How to Make It:
- Mix all tuna cake ingredients in a bowl. Shape into small patties.
- Heat oil in a skillet and fry cakes 4–5 minutes per side until golden.
- Mix lemon aioli ingredients in a small bowl.
- Serve cakes with dollops of aioli.
Meal Prep Tip: Make patties a day ahead and chill before frying.
Best Pairings: Roasted sweet potatoes, green salad, holiday rice pilaf.
8. Warm Tuna & White Bean Christmas Stew
Why You’ll Love It:
There’s something so comforting about a warm stew, especially when the weather turns cold and you want something protein-rich without heavy meat. This version is speedy, hearty, and super satisfying after decorating the tree.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
2 cans (15 oz each) white beans, drained and rinsed 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in olive oil, drained 1 cup diced tomatoes (canned or fresh) 1/2 cup chopped onion 2 garlic cloves, minced 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme 1/2 cup chopped parsley Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Heat olive oil in a pot, add onion and garlic, and sauté until soft.
- Stir in tomatoes and thyme.
- Add beans and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Gently fold in tuna and heat through.
- Top with chopped parsley and serve.
Flavor Boost: Add a dash of smoked paprika for depth.
Serving Idea: Serve in mugs for cozy, casual gatherings.
9. Tuna & Roasted Red Pepper Dip
Why You’ll Love It:
You’ll want this high-protein dip on your snack board. Blended with roasted peppers and Greek yogurt, it’s smooth, tangy, and perfect for dunking veggies or spreading on holiday crackers.
Serving size: Serves 6 (as appetizer)
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 10 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained 1/2 cup Greek yogurt 1/4 cup roasted red peppers (jarred), chopped 1 tablespoon lemon juice 1 tablespoon olive oil 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika Salt and pepper Crumbled feta and fresh parsley for topping
How to Make It:
- Add tuna, Greek yogurt, red peppers, lemon juice, olive oil, paprika, salt and pepper to a food processor.
- Blend until smooth and creamy.
- Scoop into serving bowl and top with feta and parsley.
Swap This With That: Use roasted yellow peppers for a milder, golden-hued dip.
Serving Idea: Great as a sandwich or pita spread.
10. Tuna-Stuffed Sweet Potato Skins
Why You’ll Love It:
These hit all the marks: comforting, nutritious, and naturally festive with sweet orange potatoes and savory tuna. They’re fantastic for meal prep lunches or a unique Christmas side.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
2 large sweet potatoes 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained 1/3 cup Greek yogurt 1 tablespoon whole-grain mustard 1 tablespoon chopped scallion 1 teaspoon lemon zest Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Bake sweet potatoes at 400°F until tender, about 35 minutes. Cool slightly.
- Halve potatoes and scoop some flesh into a bowl.
- Add tuna, Greek yogurt, mustard, scallion, lemon zest, salt, and pepper to potato flesh. Mash together.
- Spoon filling into sweet potato skins.
Meal Prep Tip: Bake the sweet potatoes ahead and stuff just before serving.
Personal Note: My little niece calls these “Christmas boats” because of their bright colors.
11. Crunchy Christmas Tuna Waldorf Salad
Why You’ll Love It:
Classic Waldorf gets a holiday update with protein-rich tuna. Crunchy apples, celery, walnuts, and a light dressing make this the best kind of festive lunch or quick potluck dish.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained 1 medium apple, diced 1/2 cup red seedless grapes, halved 1/2 cup chopped celery 1/3 cup walnuts, chopped 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 tablespoon lemon juice Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Combine tuna, apple, grapes, celery, walnuts in a bowl.
- Mix yogurt, mayo, lemon juice, salt, and pepper; fold into salad.
- Chill before serving.
Swap This With That: Use pecans for a slightly sweeter crunch.
Flavor Boost: Add a pinch of cinnamon or nutmeg for warmth.
12. Holiday Tuna Zoodle (Zucchini Noodle) Bake
Why You’ll Love It:
This is the answer if you want something cozy and wintery but lower in carbs. Zucchini noodles mingle with tuna and a light tomato sauce for a high protein, veggie-forward Christmas bake.
Serving size: Serves 5
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 50 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
4 cups zucchini noodles (from 2–3 medium zucchini) 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in olive oil, drained 1 1/2 cups tomato pasta sauce 1 cup shredded mozzarella 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning Salt and black pepper
How to Make It:
- Toss zoodles with a sprinkle of salt and let sit 10 minutes. Pat dry.
- In a baking dish, combine zoodles, tuna, tomato sauce, and seasoning.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.
- Bake at 375°F for 30 minutes.
- Garnish with basil.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t skip drying the zoodles—they can make the bake watery.
Meal Prep Tip: Assemble ahead, cover, and refrigerate unbaked for up to 1 day.
13. Tuna & Chickpea Christmas Salad Jars
Why You’ll Love It:
Meal-prep magic in a jar. Packed with protein and fiber, these are grab-and-go friendly—perfect for those busy December days when you want something nourishing you can eat between errands or before a party.
Serving size: Serves 4 (makes 4 jars)
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
2 cans (15 oz each) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained 1 cup diced cucumber 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 2 cups baby spinach 1/2 cup Greek yogurt 2 tablespoons lemon juice 2 tablespoons chopped dill Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Mix yogurt, lemon juice, dill, salt, pepper. Add 2 tablespoons dressing to bottom of each jar.
- Add layers of chickpeas, tuna, cucumber, tomatoes, then spinach.
- Seal and refrigerate. Shake before eating.
Meal Prep Tip: Jars keep 3–4 days in the fridge.
Serving Idea: Pour into a bowl and toss just before serving.
14. Tuna & Feta Holiday Stuffed Mushrooms
Why You’ll Love It:
A holiday party table classic—with a healthy, protein-packed twist. These meaty mushroom caps are so satisfying, you might skip the heavier appetizers entirely.
Serving size: Serves 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
18 large white mushrooms, stems removed 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled 1/4 cup panko or regular breadcrumbs 2 tablespoons chopped parsley 1 egg 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder Salt and pepper Olive oil for drizzling
How to Make It:
- Preheat oven to 375°F.
- Mix tuna, feta, breadcrumbs, parsley, egg, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Stuff each mushroom cap generously.
- Arrange on a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil.
- Bake 20 minutes or until golden.
Flavor Boost: Mix a pinch of lemon zest into the filling.
Serving Idea: Arrange with toothpicks as a cocktail appetizer.
15. Holiday Tuna Pesto Pasta With Roasted Tomatoes
Why You’ll Love It:
This feels special enough for a crowd but is no-fuss for a weeknight. You get all the comfort of pasta, the fresh flavors of homemade (or storebought) pesto, plus an extra boost of protein.
Serving size: Serves 5
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
12 oz whole wheat pasta spirals 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in olive oil, drained 1 cup cherry tomatoes 2/3 cup basil pesto 2 tablespoons olive oil 1/4 cup chopped basil 1/4 cup grated Parmesan Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Roast cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper at 400°F for 15 minutes.
- Boil pasta and drain.
- Toss pasta with pesto, tuna, and roasted tomatoes.
- Finish with basil and Parmesan.
Swap This With That: Use gluten-free pasta if needed.
Personal Note: My family requests this every Christmas Eve when we want something quick but extra cozy.
16. Tuna & Horseradish Deviled Eggs
Why You’ll Love It:
Every holiday party needs deviled eggs, and these are extra creamy with a bite from horseradish and plenty of protein thanks to a tuna-egg combo. Great for snacking or as a plated holiday starter.
Serving size: Serves 6
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
6 large eggs 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained 2 tablespoons mayonnaise 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt 1 teaspoon prepared horseradish 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard 1 tablespoon chopped chives Paprika, chives, and dill for topping Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Hard-boil eggs, cool, and halve. Remove yolks.
- In a bowl, mash yolks with mayo, yogurt, horseradish, and mustard.
- Stir in tuna, chives, salt, and pepper.
- Spoon or pipe filling into whites.
- Sprinkle with paprika, chives, and dill.
Common Mistake to Avoid: Don’t over-mash, or filling can get pasty.
Best Pairings: Pickled vegetables, cheese cubes, seeded crackers.
17. Winter Kale & Tuna Power Bowls
Why You’ll Love It:
When December gets hectic, these customizable bowls are a lifesaver. Packed with greens, chickpeas, and tangy lemon-tuna mix, they’re energizing fuel for all your Christmas to-do lists.
Serving size: Serves 4
Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 0 minutes
Total Time: 15 minutes
Ingredients Needed:
2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in olive oil, drained 4 cups chopped kale 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved 1 avocado, sliced 2 tablespoons lemon juice 1 tablespoon chopped parsley 1 tablespoon olive oil 2 tablespoons sunflower seeds Salt and pepper
How to Make It:
- Massage kale with olive oil and salt for 2 minutes.
- Toss tuna with lemon juice, parsley, and pepper.
- Place kale in bowls, top with chickpeas, tomatoes, avocado, and tuna.
- Sprinkle sunflower seeds on top.
Meal Prep Tip: Chop veggies and mix tuna up to 2 days in advance.
Best Pairings: Sourdough toast, sparkling water with lemon, roasted carrots.
FAQ
Can I use canned tuna in oil or water for these recipes?
Yes, both work! Tuna in olive oil is richer and great for salads or pasta, while tuna in water is lighter and perfect for casseroles, dips, and stuffed veggies.
How long do these tuna recipes keep in the fridge?
Most keep well for 2–4 days, especially the salads, dips, and casserole. For anything with avocado or cut apples, add lemon juice to prevent browning and store in airtight containers.
Are these Christmas tuna recipes good for meal prep?
Absolutely. Many are designed for make-ahead convenience—like the salad jars, stew, and casserole. Assemble ahead and keep refrigerated, adding any crispy or delicate ingredients (like microgreens) right before serving.
Can I make these recipes gluten-free?
It’s easy to adapt most dishes by using gluten-free bread, pasta, or breadcrumbs. Many, like the salads and stew, are already naturally gluten-free.
Conclusion
Tuna is kind of a secret weapon in the Christmas kitchen—a pantry staple that quietly transforms into everything from festive party nibbles to hearty family meals. These 14+ Christmas tuna recipes high protein ideas aren’t just about getting more protein, but about making the holidays nourishing, colorful, and a little bit easier. Whether you’re stretching a budget, feeding a crowd, or tucking away a quick lunch before the next round of wrapping, let these dishes inspire you to play, taste, and maybe even start a new family tradition. You don’t need perfect planning—just a can opener, a few fresh ingredients, and a willingness to experiment. Here’s to a delicious, energized holiday season.
