Tuna dip’s versatility extends far beyond the basic mayo-and-relish mixture most home cooks default to.
You’ll find that premium canned tuna—particularly oil-packed varieties—creates a more refined base for party appetizers that guests actually remember.
Whether you’re hosting an elegant cocktail hour or casual game day gathering, these nine variations will transform humble pantry staples into sophisticated spreads.
From Mediterranean olive-infused options to spicy Asian-inspired creations, each recipe offers a distinctive flavor profile that pairs perfectly with your preferred dipping vessel.
Creamy Mediterranean Tuna Dip With Olive Tapenade
This Mediterranean-inspired tuna dip blends creamy textures with briny olive tapenade for a perfect appetizer. Serve with warm pita, fresh vegetables, or as a sandwich spread.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5oz each) tuna in olive oil, drained
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- ½ cup kalamata olives, pitted and chopped
- ¼ cup green olives, pitted and chopped
- 2 tablespoons capers, drained
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: In a food processor, combine tuna, Greek yogurt, cream cheese, lemon juice, and garlic. Pulse until smooth and creamy.
Step 2: Transfer the mixture to a bowl and fold in half of the chopped olives and capers.
Step 3: In a separate small bowl, make the olive tapenade by combining remaining olives, capers, parsley, olive oil, and oregano.
Step 4: Spoon the tuna mixture into a serving bowl and top with the olive tapenade.
Step 5: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 210 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 14g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sodium: 480mg
- Serves: 6
Spicy Sriracha Tuna Dip With Crispy Wontons
This zesty tuna dip packs a spicy punch from sriracha sauce and pairs perfectly with homemade crispy wontons for an impressive appetizer that’s ready in minutes.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons sriracha sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 green onions, finely chopped
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 24 wonton wrappers
- Cooking spray
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat oven to 375°F. Cut wonton wrappers diagonally to form triangles. Lightly spray a baking sheet, arrange wonton triangles in a single layer, spray tops lightly, and sprinkle with sesame seeds.
Step 2: Bake wontons for 4-5 minutes until golden and crisp. Watch carefully as they burn quickly. Remove and let cool.
Step 3: In a medium bowl, combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha, lime juice, green onions, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Step 4: For smoother texture, pulse mixture in a food processor for 10-15 seconds.
Step 5: Transfer to a serving bowl, cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Step 6: Serve chilled dip with crispy wonton chips.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 185 per serving
- Protein: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 15g
- Fat: 8g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Serving size: 1/4 cup dip with 6 wonton chips
Classic Creamy Tuna and Herb Dip With Lemon Zest
This invigorating tuna dip combines creamy textures with bright herbs and zesty lemon.
Perfect for parties, it pairs wonderfully with vegetables, crackers, or pita bread.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons finely chopped fresh chives
- 1 small garlic clove, minced
- 1/4 cup finely diced cucumber
- 1/4 cup finely diced red bell pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, flake the drained tuna with a fork until no large chunks remain.
Step 2: Add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, and lemon zest to the tuna. Mix well until combined.
Step 3: Fold in the chopped dill, chives, minced garlic, diced cucumber, and red bell pepper.
Step 4: Season with salt and black pepper, then stir to incorporate all ingredients evenly.
Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: Before serving, taste and adjust seasonings if needed. Garnish with additional herbs and lemon zest if desired.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 165 per serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 9g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0.5g
- Sodium: 410mg
- Serving size: 1/4 cup
Avocado Tuna Dip With Jalapeño and Lime
This zesty tuna dip combines creamy avocado with flaky tuna, spicy jalapeño, and bright lime for a revitalizing appetizer.
Perfect with tortilla chips or veggie sticks.
Ingredients:
- 2 ripe avocados, pitted and peeled
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, mash the avocados with a fork until mostly smooth but still slightly chunky.
Step 2: Add the drained tuna to the bowl and gently fold into the avocado mixture.
Step 3: Add the chopped jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, and minced garlic to the bowl.
Step 4: Squeeze in the lime juice and sprinkle in the cumin, salt, and pepper.
Step 5: Gently mix all ingredients until well combined, being careful not to overmix.
Step 6: Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 7: Serve chilled with tortilla chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 165 per serving
- Protein: 10g
- Fat: 12g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sodium: 240mg
- Serving size: 1/4 cup
Buffalo-Style Tuna Dip With Blue Cheese Crumbles
This spicy buffalo tuna dip combines the oceanic flavor of tuna with the classic heat of buffalo sauce. Perfect for game days or casual gatherings, it pairs beautifully with crisp vegetables or crackers.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) solid white tuna in water, drained
- 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1/4 cup light mayonnaise
- 3 tablespoons buffalo hot sauce
- 1 stalk celery, finely diced
- 2 green onions, thinly sliced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/3 cup crumbled blue cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Carrot sticks, celery, or crackers for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, break up the drained tuna with a fork until flaked.
Step 2: Add Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, buffalo sauce, diced celery, green onions, lemon juice, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Gently fold in 1/4 cup of the blue cheese crumbles, reserving the rest for topping.
Step 4: Season with salt and pepper to taste, adjusting buffalo sauce if more heat is desired.
Step 5: Transfer to a serving bowl, sprinkle with remaining blue cheese, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: Serve chilled with fresh vegetables and crackers.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 185 per 1/4 cup serving
- Protein: 18g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Cholesterol: 35mg
Smoky Roasted Red Pepper and Tuna Dip
This smoky, creamy dip combines the richness of tuna with sweet roasted red peppers for a perfect party appetizer. Serve with pita chips, crackers, or fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) solid white tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup roasted red peppers (jarred), drained and chopped
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 4 oz cream cheese, softened
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp ground cumin
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
Step 1: In a food processor, combine the drained tuna, roasted red peppers, Greek yogurt, and cream cheese. Pulse until smooth.
Step 2: Add lemon juice, smoked paprika, garlic powder, cumin, and black pepper. Pulse again until well incorporated.
Step 3: Taste and add salt as needed, then transfer to a serving bowl.
Step 4: Fold in most of the chopped chives, reserving some for garnish.
Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
Step 6: Before serving, sprinkle with the remaining chives and an extra dash of smoked paprika for color.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 120 per 1/4 cup serving
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fat: 6g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Calcium: 8% DV
- Iron: 6% DV
Asian-Inspired Ginger Sesame Tuna Dip
This zesty Asian-inspired dip combines fresh tuna with ginger, sesame, and soy flavors for a delightful appetizer.
Serve with rice crackers or cucumber slices for an elegant party starter.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon low-sodium soy sauce
- 1 green onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- ½ teaspoon honey
- ¼ teaspoon wasabi paste (optional)
- Dash of black pepper
Instructions:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, break up the drained tuna with a fork until flaky.
Step 2: Add mayonnaise, sesame oil, grated ginger, soy sauce, lemon juice, honey, and wasabi paste (if using).
Mix until well combined.
Step 3: Fold in the chopped green onion, reserving some for garnish, and add black pepper to taste.
Step 4: Transfer the dip to a serving bowl and sprinkle with sesame seeds and the remaining green onion.
Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before serving to allow flavors to meld.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 165 per serving
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 11g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Serving size: 1/4 cup
Zesty Cilantro-Lime Tuna Dip With Corn Chips
This vibrant tuna dip combines the freshness of cilantro and lime with creamy textures for a perfect party appetizer.
Serve with crispy corn chips for a satisfying crunch that complements the zesty flavors.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 3 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 small jalapeño, seeded and finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 bag corn chips for serving
Instructions:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, flake the drained tuna with a fork until no large chunks remain.
Step 2: Add Greek yogurt and mayonnaise to the tuna and mix well to create a creamy base.
Step 3: Stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, jalapeño, red onion, and garlic.
Mix until all ingredients are evenly distributed.
Step 4: Season with cumin, salt, and pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Step 5: Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Step 6: Transfer to a serving bowl and serve chilled with corn chips.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 165 per 1/4 cup serving (not including chips)
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 10g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Sodium: 320mg
- Fiber: 1g
Greek Yogurt Tuna Dip With Cucumber and Dill
This invigorating tuna dip combines the tangy flavor of Greek yogurt with cucumber and dill for a healthy, protein-packed snack.
Perfect with vegetables, pita chips, or as a sandwich spread.
Ingredients:
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon capers, drained (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: In a medium bowl, break up the drained tuna with a fork until flaked.
Step 2: Add Greek yogurt, diced cucumber, chopped dill, lemon juice, minced garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the bowl.
Step 3: Mix all ingredients thoroughly until well combined. If using capers, fold them in gently.
Step 4: Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to blend.
Step 5: Before serving, stir the dip and adjust seasoning to taste. Garnish with additional dill if desired.
Nutrition:
- Calories: 180 per serving
- Protein: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fat: 8g
- Fiber: 1g
- Sodium: 420mg
- Serving size: 1/4 cup
Final Thoughts
You’ve now got an arsenal of tuna dips to elevate your entertaining game.
Contrary to what some believe, canned tuna isn’t just for basic sandwiches—it’s a versatile protein that shines when paired with bold flavors and complementary textures.
Try folding your tuna with a splash of acidity to brighten the richness, or experimenting with infused oils for depth.
Your guests will never guess these show-stopping appetizers started with such a humble ingredient.
