Meal Prep does not have to suck! These Crunchy Tahini Tuna Salad Jars with (Just a Little) Spicy Tahini Dressing are the ultimate high-protein meal prep lunch for busy weekdays when you want something fresh, filling, and actually delicious. Packed with tender tuna, crisp crunchy vegetables, and a creamy tahini dressing with just enough heat to keep things interesting, these layered salad jars stay fresh for days and make healthy eating feel effortless instead of boring.
The nutty sesame flavor of the tahini pairs perfectly with the savory tuna and crisp textures, creating a restaurant-quality mason jar salad that’s loaded with protein, fiber, healthy fats, and unmatched flavor in every bite.
How to Assemble these Crunchy Tahini Tuna Salad Jars with (Just a Little) Spicy Tahini Dressing
Pour 3 tbsp of dressing into the bottom of each jar, then divide the ingredients between the two jars, layering in the following order: chickpeas, cabbage, pepperoncini, tuna, red onion, and romaine lettuce. Place the lids on the jars and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Shake right before serving.
Crunchy Tahini Tuna Salad Jars with (Just a Little) Spicy Tahini Dressing
Servings
2
servings
Ingredients: Makes 2 (32 oz.) jars
1 cup (112 g) sliced red cabbage
2 oz. (54 g) pepperoncini rings, coarsely chopped
1 (6.7-oz [190-g]) jar quality tuna (I prefer Tonnino brand Tuna Fillets in Spring Water)
2 tbsp (14 g) thinly shredded red onion
1 romaine lettuce heart, shredded
(Just a Little) Spicy Tahini Dressing (makes ¾ cup [180 ml])
3 tbsp (45 ml) fresh lemon juice (from about 1 large lemon)
½ tsp honey
¼ cup (60 g) tahini
2-5 tbsp cold water
1 tbsp (22.5 ml) extra virgin olive oil
¼ tsp ground cumin
¼ tsp ground chipotle powder
¼ tsp granulated garlic
Kosher salt
Freshly ground black pepper
Directions
Start by making the (Just a Little) Spicy Tahini Dressing. In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, honey and tahini. Add cold water, 1 tablespoon (15 ml) at a time, until the dressing is drizzling consistency (because brands of tahini vary in thickness, you might need more water, or not need any at all). Whisk in the olive oil, cumin, chipotle powder, and garlic. Season to taste with kosher salt. You can store it in the refrigerator for up to 1 week.
Pour 3 tbsp (45 ml) of dressing into the bottom of each jar, then divide the ingredients between the two jars, layering in the following order: chickpeas, cabbage, pepperoncini, tuna, red onion, and romaine lettuce. Place the lids on the jars and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Shake right before serving.