The Best Cucumber Tuna Sandwich Recipe
Introduction
This refreshing cucumber tuna sandwich is a light and healthy twist on a classic favorite. Perfect for a quick lunch or snack, it combines crisp cucumber slices with a flavorful tuna salad for a sandwich that’s both satisfying and gluten-free.

Ingredients
- 5 ounces wild-caught tuna, canned
- 1/4 cup red onion or yellow onion, chopped
- 2 tablespoons clean mayonnaise (more to taste)
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (about 1/2 a lemon)
- 2 cucumbers, partially peeled lengthwise to create stripes, cut into 12 horizontal slices each
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, chopped onion, salt, black pepper, paprika, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
- Step 2: Arrange half of the cucumber slices on a serving plate. Spoon a dollop of the tuna salad onto each slice, then top each with another cucumber slice to form sandwiches.
- Step 3: For easier handling, you can skewer each sandwich with a toothpick.
- Step 4: Serve immediately and enjoy this light, flavorful snack.
Tips & Variations
- Use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a tangier and lighter tuna salad.
- Add chopped celery or dill for extra crunch and freshness.
- Try swapping paprika for smoked paprika to add a subtle smoky flavor.
- If you prefer a little heat, mix in a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of hot sauce.
Storage
Store any leftover tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep cucumber slices separately to avoid sogginess. Assemble sandwiches just before serving. Reheating is not recommended, as the cucumbers are best enjoyed fresh.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use other types of fish instead of tuna?
Yes, you can substitute canned salmon or chicken to create a different flavor while keeping the recipe light and protein-rich.
How do I keep the cucumber slices from getting soggy?
Partially peeling the cucumbers lengthwise to create stripes helps reduce excess moisture. Also, prepare and assemble the sandwich just before serving for the best texture.
PrintThe Best Cucumber Tuna Sandwich Recipe
This Best Cucumber Tuna Sandwich is a fresh and light twist on the classic tuna salad sandwich, replacing bread with crisp cucumber slices to create a refreshing, low-carb, and gluten-free meal perfect for a quick lunch or healthy snack.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 3 sandwiches 1x
- Category: Sandwich
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 5 ounces wild-caught tuna can
- 1/4 cup red onion or yellow, chopped
- 2 tablespoons clean mayo, more to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher or sea salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice (from 1/2 a lemon)
- 2 cucumbers, partially peeled lengthwise to create stripes, cut into 12 horizontal slices each
Instructions
- Prepare Tuna Salad: In a bowl, mix together the wild-caught tuna, mayonnaise, chopped onions, kosher or sea salt, black pepper, paprika, and freshly squeezed lemon juice until ingredients are well combined into a creamy tuna salad.
- Assemble Sandwiches: Lay out half of the cucumber slices on a serving surface. Spoon a dollop of the prepared tuna salad onto each cucumber slice.
- Complete Sandwich: Top each tuna-topped cucumber slice with another cucumber slice to create a sandwich. Optionally, use toothpicks to skewer each sandwich for easier handling and serving.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve immediately and enjoy this fresh, light, and gluten-free alternative to traditional tuna sandwiches.
Notes
- This sandwich is naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates.
- Adjust the amount of mayonnaise to your taste preference for creaminess.
- For extra flavor, try adding fresh herbs like dill or parsley to the tuna salad.
- Keep cucumber sandwich refrigerated and consume soon after preparation for best freshness.
Keywords: Gluten-Free, Quick and Easy, Tuna Salad, Low Carb, Healthy Snack, No Bread

