How to Make Avocado Tuna Salad with a Twist
Dive into the fresh and satisfying “Refreshing Delight: Avocado Tuna Salad,” a healthy and flavorful twist on traditional tuna salad. This dish combines the creamy texture of ripe avocados with the rich taste of tuna, accented with crisp vegetables and a zesty dressing. Perfect for a light lunch, a quick snack, or as a wholesome addition to any meal, this avocado tuna salad is not only delicious but also packed with nutrients, making it a smart choice for a balanced diet.
Why You’ll Love Avocado Tuna Salad:
- Heart-Healthy: Avocados are loaded with healthy fats, and tuna is a great source of protein and omega-3 fatty acids.
- Quick and Easy: Simple to prepare, requiring only a few minutes and no cooking.
- Versatile: Serve it on its own, as a sandwich filling, or over a bed of greens for a fulfilling salad.
- Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of fresh ingredients with a light, citrusy dressing makes every bite a delight.
Ingredients Notes For Avocado Tuna Salad:
- Tuna: Opt for canned tuna in water or olive oil, well-drained. Chunk light tuna or albacore works well depending on your preference for texture and taste.
- Avocados: Choose ripe but firm avocados to ensure they hold their shape in the salad.
- Red Onion and Celery: Adds crunch and sharpness, balancing the creamy elements.
- Cucumber: Provides a fresh, crisp texture.
- Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro can brighten the salad with their fresh flavors.
- Lemon Juice: Adds zest and helps to keep the avocado from browning.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good-quality olive oil can enhance the richness of the salad.
- Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder to taste.
Recipe Steps:
- Prepare the Ingredients:
- Drain the tuna and place it in a medium bowl. Peel and pit the avocados, cutting them into small cubes. Finely chop the red onion, celery, cucumber, and fresh herbs.
- Mix the Salad:
- Add the chopped avocados, onion, celery, and cucumber to the bowl with the tuna. Gently toss to combine, taking care not to mash the avocados too much.
- Dress the Salad:
- In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Drizzle this dressing over the tuna mixture and toss lightly to coat.
- Serve:
- Serve immediately, garnished with additional herbs or atop a bed of fresh salad greens. For a heartier meal, scoop into halved bell peppers or avocado shells, or spread on whole-grain toast.
Storage Options:
- Refrigerate: Best enjoyed fresh, but you can store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 day. Note that the avocados may brown slightly.
How to Make Avocado Tuna Salad with a Twist
Ingredients
- 2 cans of tuna preferably albacore, drained
- 2 ripe avocados halved and pitted
- 1/4 cup red onion finely chopped
- 1/2 red bell pepper diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro chopped (or parsley if preferred)
- Juice of 1 lemon or lime, for a tangier taste
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil for extra richness
- Optional: chopped cucumber or celery for added crunch
- Optional: 1 small jalapeño finely chopped (for a spicy kick)
Instructions
Prepare the Avocado:
- Scoop out some of the avocado flesh, leaving a small border around the shells. This creates a "bowl" to hold the salad. Place the scooped-out flesh in a mixing bowl and mash it lightly with a fork.
Mix the Salad:
- Add the drained tuna, red onion, red bell pepper, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using) to the mashed avocado.
- Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture. If desired, drizzle with olive oil.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently mix everything together until well combined.
Fill the Avocado Bowls:
- Spoon the tuna salad mixture back into the avocado halves.
Serve:
- Serve immediately, or chill in the refrigerator if you prefer a colder dish.
- Optional: Garnish with additional cilantro or parsley leaves before serving.
