
This Tuna Salad Poke Bowl delivers a burst of freshness and color while requiring almost no cooking. The combo of crisp greens, rich tuna, juicy tomatoes, and creamy mozzarella comes together in minutes and always makes weekday lunches feel a little more special. I love pulling this together when I crave something clean yet satisfying with lots of texture in every bite.
The first time I made this, I was trying to use up odds and ends before a grocery trip and was amazed by how such basic stuff turned into a new favorite bowl my whole family loved.
Ingredients
- Mixed greens such as arugula baby spinach or red oak leaf: These bring a peppery and tender base Choose prewashed leaves for ease
- Canned tuna in oil: Draining makes the texture perfect and tuna in oil brings extra richness Use a good quality brand for best flavor
- Cherry tomatoes either whole or halved: Sweet bursts of freshness Look for bright glossy skins
- Mini mozzarella balls or bocconcini: Mild and creamy Choose mozzarella packed in water for optimal softness
- Yellow sweet corn cooked or canned: Adds a juicy sweet pop If canned rinse and drain for freshness
- Radish thinly sliced: Peppery crunch and vibrant color Use firm crisp radishes
- Chopped parsley or chives: Optional but adds a bright herbal note Use fresh herbs for extra color
- Salt and pepper: Optional but enhances flavors Use flaky sea salt or freshly cracked black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the greens:
- Wash and thoroughly dry mixed greens then arrange as a generous base in your serving bowl This step keeps everything crisp
- Prep the toppings:
- Gently drain tuna and flake into bite size chunks If using cherry tomatoes halve them for easier bites Slice radishes into ultra thin rounds and drain the mozzarella balls so they are not watery
- Arrange toppings:
- Neatly arrange each ingredient in its own section on top of the greens tuna tomatoes mozzarella corn and radish This makes it extra inviting and brings out the fresh feel of a poke bowl
- Add herbs and finishing touches:
- Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives over everything for brightness Add a little salt and pepper if you like
- Serve:
- Enjoy as is for a clean look If desired add a wedge of lemon or a tiny drizzle of vinaigrette right before eating for extra zing

Tuna has always been my favorite for quick salads because it makes any bowl feel hearty and special I remember making this bowl for the first spring picnic of the year and how the fresh radishes and crunchy greens made everything taste even better outside
Storage Tips
If prepping in advance keep undressed and tightly covered in the fridge It stays fresh for up to twenty four hours Keep dressing or lemon separate to prevent sogginess Add fresh herbs just before serving for the best look and taste
Ingredient Substitutions
You can swap canned salmon or grilled chicken for tuna if you like For a vegetarian poke bowl use extra mozzarella or toss in canned chickpeas Instead of bocconcini try feta cubes or ricotta salata if that is what you have
Serving Suggestions
This bowl works beautifully as a light lunch or dinner For bigger appetites add cooked rice or quinoa underneath the greens You can also double the veggies or throw in avocado for more creaminess
Cultural Context
Poke bowls originated in Hawaii as a way to serve fresh fish with simple toppings While this is a salad-inspired take and not a classic poke it carries over the spirit of fresh ingredients and beautiful assembly I love joining those traditions with an easy everyday lunch
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I substitute another type of fish for tuna?
Yes, cooked salmon or shredded chicken provide similar texture and flavor if tuna is unavailable.
- → Is it necessary to add dressing?
The bowl is designed to be served without dressing, but a light vinaigrette or lemon juice can be added to taste.
- → How do I keep the ingredients fresh for meal prep?
Store components separately or assemble without dressing and add any dressing just before serving for crispness.
- → Can I use canned tuna in water?
Canned tuna in water works well—just be sure to drain thoroughly for the best texture.
- → What other toppings can I add?
Try cucumber, avocado, edamame, pickled onions, or toasted seeds to personalize the bowl.