Tuna Salad with Avocado

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Tuna Salad with Avocado is everything you love about tuna salad but with an extra creamy and nutritious boost from ripe avocado. The creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the tuna, making the salad rich yet refreshing. With fresh vegetables like cucumber, red onion, and bell pepper, along with a zesty lemon dressing, this salad is full of flavor, and it comes together in minutes. Whether you’re on a healthy eating plan, looking for a quick meal, or craving a light yet filling salad, this one will check all the boxes.

Ingredients

• 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained (or 1/2 pound fresh tuna, cooked and flaked)

• 1 ripe avocado, diced

• 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced

• 1/2 cup cucumber, diced

• 1/2 bell pepper, diced (optional)

• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard (optional)

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder (optional)

• 1 tablespoon capers (optional, for added tang)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Prepare the Ingredients:

   • If using canned tuna, drain it well. If using fresh tuna, cook it (grilled or pan-seared) and then flake it with a fork once it’s cooled.

   • Dice the avocado, red onion, cucumber, and bell pepper (if using). Chop the fresh parsley if desired.

2. Make the Dressing:

   • In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, salt, pepper, and garlic powder (if using) until well combined.

3. Combine the Salad:

   • In a large bowl, add the tuna, diced avocado, red onion, cucumber, bell pepper, and capers (if using). Gently toss the ingredients to combine, being careful not to mash the avocado.

4. Add the Dressing:

   • Pour the dressing over the tuna salad and gently toss again to coat all the ingredients in the dressing.

5. Garnish and Serve:

   • Garnish with fresh parsley if desired, and serve immediately. This salad is perfect on its own or served with a side of leafy greens or whole-grain crackers.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: This recipe serves 2 as a main dish or 4 as a side.

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes

• Total Time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Add Greens: For more crunch and fiber, serve the tuna salad on a bed of mixed greens, spinach, or arugula.

• Make It Spicy: Add a few dashes of hot sauce, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños for a spicy kick.

• Add Extra Protein: For an extra protein boost, add hard-boiled eggs or chickpeas.

• Make It Creamier: Add a tablespoon of Greek yogurt or a dollop of mayonnaise for a creamier texture.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover tuna salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1-2 days.

• Reheating: This salad is best served cold and doesn’t reheat well, as the avocado may brown and the veggies may lose their crunch.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of tuna?

Yes, you can use tuna in oil instead of water for a richer flavor, or even use salmon or chicken if you prefer.

2. Can I make this ahead of time?

You can prep the salad ahead of time but don’t add the avocado until right before serving to prevent it from turning brown. You can also store the dressing separately and add it when you’re ready to eat.

3. Can I make this salad with frozen tuna?

Yes, you can use frozen tuna. Just make sure to thaw and cook it thoroughly before flaking it for the salad.

4. Can I add more vegetables?

Yes! You can add any of your favorite vegetables, such as tomatoes, corn, olives, or celery, to this salad for extra flavor and crunch.

5. Can I make this recipe without avocado?

Yes, if you prefer, you can omit the avocado and use a little extra olive oil and lemon juice for creaminess, or try adding some Greek yogurt or mayonnaise.

6. How do I prevent the avocado from turning brown?

To keep the avocado fresh, add it last and serve the salad immediately. You can also toss the avocado in lemon juice before mixing it in to help preserve its color.

7. How do I make the salad more filling?

To make it heartier, serve it on a bed of quinoa, rice, or mixed greens. You can also add a slice of whole-grain bread or crackers on the side.

8. Can I use a different dressing?

Yes, feel free to swap out the lemon dressing for your favorite vinaigrette or creamy dressing to suit your taste.

9. Can I make this tuna salad in advance?

Yes, you can prepare most of the ingredients ahead of time. Just be sure to add the avocado right before serving to keep it fresh.

10. How do I keep the salad from getting soggy?

If you plan to store it, store the dressing separately and add it just before serving to keep the salad fresh and prevent sogginess.

Conclusion

This Tuna Salad with Avocado is a quick, fresh, and healthy meal that’s perfect for any time of day. It’s full of nutritious ingredients, flavor, and healthy fats, making it a satisfying option for lunch or dinner. Easy to make, customizable, and bursting with flavor, this tuna salad will become your new go-to for a light and delicious meal!

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