This Keto Canned Salmon Salad is a convenient and easy paleo lunch recipe that is low in carbs. This protein-rich dish only has a few ingredients but it’s so satisfying. This recipe is naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and yummy!

A plate of canned salmon salad with greens.

This recipe was originally published in 2021; it was updated and re-published in March, 2025.

This easy salmon salad is great for meal prepping. You can make a big batch and store it in the fridge for up to several days.

Serve it several ways including by itself, with salad greens like romaine or baby spinach, or with any of my grain-free bread substitutes.

This keto salad is a great low carb meal that is satisfying and nutritious.

Why You Need This Recipe

Key Ingredients

Ingredients for keto canned salmon salad.
  • Canned wild-caught salmon takes the place of tuna in this salad for a delicious and nutritious way to change up your salad game. I like the Wild Planet canned salmon.
  • Mayonnaise makes the salad creamy and brings everything together.
  • Grainy mustard packs a punch of flavor with only a small amount needed. See my list of Dijon mustard alternatives.
  • Lemon cuts the richness of the mayo with a bright and lemony flavor.
  • Relish adds more flavor, be sure to use a sugar-free version to keep this salmon salad recipe appropriate for a keto diet.
  • Celery adds crunch with hardly any calories or carbs. See my list of fresh celery substitutes.

Please see the full recipe card at the end of this post for the exact measurements.

Recipe Steps

ingredients for salmon salad in bowl.

Step One: In a medium bowl or large bowl, combine all the ingredients for the salad.

bowl with canned salmon mixture.

Step Two: Use a fork to break up the salmon and then use a spatula to stir everything together really well.

Serve immediately or chill and serve cold.

Ingredient Substitutions & Variations (Dairy-Free & Keto-Friendly)

One of the best things about keto canned salmon salad is how adaptable it is!

Whether you want a different texture, more crunch, or a unique flavor, here are some great dairy-free ingredient swaps to keep it delicious and fully keto-friendly.

1. Mayo Alternatives

Since traditional salmon salad is often made with mayonnaise, here are some dairy-free options that provide creaminess while keeping it keto:

  • Mashed Avocado – creamy avocado pairs well with salmon.
  • Olive Oil & Lemon Juice – A lighter option that keeps the salad fresh and zesty.
  • Tahini (Ground Sesame Paste) – Adds a nutty, slightly earthy flavor that pairs well with lemon and garlic.
  • Dairy-Free Pesto – Use a basil-based pesto with olive oil and nuts for a herby, flavorful twist.
  • Homemade Aioli – A blend of egg yolks, olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice for a fresh, rich alternative.

2. Crunchy Additions

Adding crunch makes the salad more interesting while keeping it low-carb. Try these dairy-free, keto-friendly options:

  • Celery – Classic choice for a fresh, crisp bite.
  • Cucumber – Hydrating and adds a refreshing crunch.
  • Chopped Nuts (Almonds, Pecans, or Walnuts) – Adds a slight crunch and healthy fats.
  • Pumpkin or Sunflower Seeds – Great nut-free options for added texture.
  • Chopped Radish – A slightly peppery crunch that brightens the salad.
  • Microgreens – Adds nutrition, flavor, and interest. See my Microgreens Salad recipe.

3. Flavor Enhancers

  • Fresh Herbs: Fresh dill, parsley, cilantro, basil, or chives add brightness.
  • Spices: Smoked paprika, cumin, garlic powder, or red pepper flakes add depth.
  • Mustard (Dijon or Whole Grain): Brings tanginess and a bit of spice.
  • Capers or Olives: Adds a briny, salty contrast.
  • Pickled Red Onions: Provides a slightly sweet and tangy bite without sugar.
  • Lemon or Lime Zest: A fresh citrus note that enhances the salmon flavor.

4. Extra Healthy Fats

Since keto is all about healthy fats, here are some great ways to increase them:

  • Avocado Chunks – A creamy, nutrient-dense addition.
  • Chopped Macadamia Nuts – One of the lowest-carb, highest-fat nuts.
  • Hemp Seeds or Chia Seeds – Adds fiber and omega-3s.
  • Drizzle of Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Enhances richness and mouthfeel.

5. Protein Boosters

Want to make this even more protein-packed? Try these additions:

  • Chopped Hard Boiled Eggs – Adds extra protein and makes the salad creamier.
  • Bacon Crumbles – Adds a smoky, salty crunch.
  • Shredded Chicken or Shrimp – Works well for a seafood or surf-and-turf twist.

6. Low-Carb Serving Ideas (To Keep It Interesting & Versatile)

Instead of bread, try these keto-friendly and dairy-free ways to serve your keto salmon salad:

  • Wrapped in Lettuce (Romaine, Butter, or Collard Greens) – Fresh and crisp.
  • Stuffed into Avocado Halves or Bell Peppers – A nutrient-dense, easy meal-prep option.
  • Over a Bed of Greens (Arugula, Spinach, or Mixed Greens) – A more traditional salad approach.
  • On Cucumber or Zucchini Slices – A great alternative to crackers.
  • Rolled in Nori Sheets – Turns it into a sushi-inspired wrap.

Recipe Tips

  • Store any leftover salad in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Don’t drain the liquid from your canned salmon.
  • This recipe is very versatile! Feel free to add ingredients you like including red onion, black pepper, cherry tomatoes, parmesan cheese, or kalamata olives. See my list of no-sugar foods for more ideas.

Recipe FAQs

Is canned salmon as healthy as fresh?

Both canned fish and fresh are an excellent source of protein and other important nutrients. Canned is more convenient because it stores easily and doesn’t require cooking. You can use cooked flaky salmon for this recipe.

Can I freeze salmon salad?

It’s not recommended to freeze it because mayo and fresh veggies don’t thaw well. If you must freeze it, leave out mayo and mix it in after thawing.

Can I eat this warm or cold?

It’s best served cold or at room temperature, but if you prefer warm salmon, you can gently heat the salmon before mixing it into the salad.

A bite of salmon salad on a fork

More Keto Recipes You Might Like

Don’t Miss These Delicious Salads

Chick-fil-A Kale Crunch Salad (Copycat Recipe)

Whole Foods Broccoli Crunch Salad (Copycat Recipe)

Easy Carrot Cucumber Salad with Homemade Vinaigrette

Costco Chicken Salad (Copycat Recipe)

I hope you make this recipe! If you do, please leave a comment and a starred review below.

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Canned salmon salad with greens

Keto Canned Salmon Salad (High-Protein)

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5 from 1 review

Print Recipe

This Keto Canned Salmon Salad is a convenient and easy paleo lunch recipe that is low in carbs. This protein-rich dish only has a few ingredients but it’s so satisfying. Gluten-free, dairy-free, and yummy!

  • Total Time: 15 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 2 6–ounce cans boneless and skinless wild-caught salmon, packed in its own juices (I used the Wild Planet Sockeye Salmon)
  • 2 celery stalks, diced
  • 1/4 onion, diced
  • 1/3 cup prepared mayonnaise
  • 1 teaspoon grainy mustard
  • 2 tablespoons sugar-free pickle relish or 1 finely diced dill pickle
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill or 1 teaspoon dried dill
  • 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

  1. In a medium mixing bowl, combine the canned salmon, celery, onion, mayonnaise, mustard, pickle relish, dill, and lemon juice.
  2. Use a fork to break up the salmon and then use a spatula to stir together the ingredients until they are well combined.
  3. Serve immediately, or chill and serve cold.

Notes

  1. Store any leftover salad in a covered container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  2. Most mayonnaise is naturally dairy-free, but you may want to read the label on the jar of mayonnaise that you use to make sure.
  3. Salmon salad can be served in variety of ways. Serve it plain, on top of romaine lettuce, or inside a low-carb wrap.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 259
  • Sugar: 1.4 g
  • Sodium: 557.3 mg
  • Fat: 18.7 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Carbohydrates: 3.6 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 18.3 g
  • Cholesterol: 57.9 mg

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About the Author: Carrie Forrest has a master’s degree in public health with a specialty in nutrition and is a certified holistic nutritionist. She is a top wellness and food blogger with over 5 million annual visitors to her site. Carrie has an incredible story of recovery from chronic illness and is passionate about helping other women transform their health. Send her a message through her contact form.