Avocado Tuna Salad Recipe

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You know, the Avocado Tuna Salad is one of those dishes that feels simple but still very satisfying, and I think that’s what makes it so nice to keep around.

It’s basically a mix of tuna with fresh avocado and a few other easy ingredients, and the best part is that it comes together in just about ten minutes, so you don’t have to spend much time in the kitchen.

It works really well if you want something quick for lunch, but honestly it can also be served as a light dinner or even as a filling snack when you’re hungry in between meals. I like how it feels fresh and creamy at the same time, and it’s the kind of recipe that you can share with friends without any fuss.

The Avocado Tuna Salad is basically a mix of tuna with fresh avocado, cucumber, onion, and a few simple seasonings that make it taste really fresh. It’s not complicated at all, and that’s why people like it so much.

You usually eat it as a quick lunch because it’s filling and packed with protein, but it also works nicely as a side dish with dinner if you want something light. The avocado gives it a creamy texture without needing mayonnaise, which makes it feel a little healthier.

It’s one of those recipes that fits into everyday cooking, and it’s easy to share when you’re making food for family or friends.

Quick to make: The Avocado Tuna Salad takes only about ten minutes from start to finish, so it’s perfect when you don’t want to spend too much time cooking.

Simple ingredients: Everything you need is very basic, like tuna, avocado, cucumber, and onion, which means you probably already have most of it at home.

Healthy and filling: Because it has protein from the tuna and creaminess from the avocado, it feels satisfying without being heavy.

Beginner-friendly: The steps are very easy, so even if you don’t cook much, you can still put this together without stress.

Works for different meals: You can enjoy it as a quick lunch, serve it as a side with dinner, or even have it as a snack when you want something fresh.

When you look at the Avocado Tuna Salad, the nice thing is that it only uses a handful of very basic ingredients, and each one has its own little role to play in making the salad taste fresh and satisfying.

  • Tuna – gives the salad protein and makes it filling.
  • Avocado – adds creaminess and makes the texture smooth without needing mayonnaise.
  • Cucumber – brings crunch and keeps the salad light.
  • Red onion – adds a sharp flavor that balances the creaminess.
  • Cilantro – gives freshness and a little extra flavor.
  • Lemon juice – brightens the taste and keeps the avocado from browning.
  • Olive oil – adds richness and helps everything mix together.
  • Salt and black pepper – bring out the flavors and make the salad taste complete.

💡 Note: For the full ingredient list with exact amounts and measurements, please check the recipe card below.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

First, you want to start by slicing the cucumber and onion, and it’s best to keep the pieces thin so they mix well with the rest of the salad. The cucumber should feel crisp when you cut into it, and the onion should look clean and even so it doesn’t overpower the other flavors. This step is simple, but it makes a big difference because the vegetables bring freshness and crunch.

Step 2: Slice the Avocados

Next, peel and slice the avocados, and try to keep the slices neat so they don’t mash too much when you mix everything together. The avocado should feel creamy and soft, and you’ll notice how it adds a smooth texture that balances the tuna. If you drizzle a little lemon juice right away, it helps keep the avocado from turning brown.

Step 3: Flake the Tuna

Now, open the tuna and drain it well, because too much liquid can make the salad soggy. Use a fork to gently flake the tuna into smaller pieces, and you’ll see how it holds together nicely without breaking down completely. This step is important because the tuna is the main protein, and it needs to mix evenly with the vegetables and avocado.

Step 4: Combine Everything in a Bowl

All ingredients of Avocado Tuna Salad inside a bowl

After that, place the cucumber, onion, avocado, tuna, and cilantro into a large bowl. Toss them gently so the avocado doesn’t get smashed, and you’ll notice how the colors look fresh and bright together. This is the moment when the salad starts to come together, and it already looks like something you’d want to eat right away.

Step 5: Add Dressing and Seasoning

Finally, drizzle lemon juice and olive oil over the salad, then sprinkle salt and pepper. Mix it slowly so the dressing coats everything evenly, and you’ll see how the avocado looks glossy and the tuna feels moist instead of dry. Taste a little to check the seasoning, and adjust if needed. This step makes the salad flavorful and complete.

💡 Note: These steps are just an overview. For detailed quantities, measurements, and exact timings to make this recipe, please check the recipe card below.

Avocado texture: Make sure the avocado is ripe but not overly soft, because if it’s too mushy it will turn into paste when you mix everything.

Tuna draining: Always drain the tuna well, since extra liquid can make the salad watery and change the texture.

Onion sharpness: Slice the onion thinly, because thicker pieces can feel too strong and overpower the other flavors.

Cucumber crispness: Add the salt just before serving, since cucumbers can lose their crunch if they sit too long with seasoning.

Ingredient swaps: If you don’t have cilantro, you can use parsley, and if you prefer tuna in water, that works fine too.

  • Spicy kick: Add a little chopped jalapeño or a dash of chili flakes if you like heat.
  • Mediterranean style: Mix in cherry tomatoes, olives, and feta cheese for a different flavor profile.
  • Low-carb option: Skip the cucumber and serve the salad inside lettuce cups for a lighter version.
  • Seasonal twist: In summer, add fresh corn or diced bell peppers, and in winter, try roasted sweet potatoes.
  • Creamier version: Stir in a spoon of Greek yogurt if you want extra creaminess without using mayonnaise.

1. Quick lunch:

The Avocado Tuna Salad is perfect for a simple lunch when you don’t have much time, because it feels filling and fresh without being heavy.

2. Light dinner:

Serve with a slice of crusty bread or a small bowl of soup, and it works nicely as a lighter dinner option.

3. Snack idea:

You can scoop it onto crackers or use it as a dip with veggie sticks, which makes it easy for snacking.

4. Pairs well with grains:

Try serving it alongside cooked quinoa or rice, since the grains balance the creamy avocado and tuna.

5. Party platter:

If you want to share, place it in lettuce cups or small bowls, and it looks neat for gatherings.

  • How long it keeps: The Avocado Tuna Salad usually stays fresh for about one to two days, but after that the avocado starts to brown and the cucumber loses its crunch.
  • Best storage method: Keep the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and if possible, add the salt right before serving so the vegetables don’t get soggy.
  • Simple reheating advice: This salad is meant to be enjoyed cold, so there’s really no need to reheat it. If you want it slightly less chilled, just let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes before eating.

  1. Can I use tuna in water instead of tuna in oil?

    Yes, you can, but just keep in mind that tuna in oil usually gives a richer flavor, while tuna in water makes the salad a little lighter.

  2. Can I make the Avocado Tuna Salad ahead of time?

    You can prepare most of the ingredients earlier, but it’s better to add the salt and avocado right before serving so the texture stays fresh.

  3. What if my avocado turns mushy?

    If the avocado is too soft, it can make the salad look messy, so try to use one that is ripe but still firm.

  4. Is this recipe good for special diets?

    Yes, it works well for gluten-free diets, and you can adjust the seasoning or oil if you want it lower in fat.

Avocado Tuna Salad

Difficulty:BeginnerPrep time: 10 minutesCook time: minutesRest time: minutesTotal time: 10 minutesServings:6 servingsCalories (per serving): 304 kcal Best Season:Summer, Spring

Description

The Avocado Tuna Salad is a quick and easy dish that mixes tuna with creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, onion, and fresh cilantro. It comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for lunch, a light dinner, or even a snack. It’s healthy, protein-packed, and satisfying without being heavy, so it’s a recipe you’ll keep coming back to.

Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Slice 1 English cucumber into thin rounds and place them in a large salad bowl.
  2. Peel, pit, and slice 2 large or 3 medium avocados, then add them to the bowl.
  3. Thinly slice 1 small/medium red onion and add it along with ¼ cup chopped cilantro.
  4. Drain 15 oz tuna in oil (3 small cans) completely, flake it with a fork, and add it to the bowl with the vegetables.
  5. Drizzle the salad with 2 Tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice and 2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil.
  6. Sprinkle with 1 tsp sea salt and ⅛ tsp black pepper, or adjust to taste.
  7. Toss everything gently until the avocado looks glossy and the tuna is evenly coated.
  8. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor.

Notes

  • Add the salt just before serving to keep cucumbers crisp.
  • Use ripe but firm avocados so they hold their shape when mixed.
  • Tuna in oil gives richer flavor, but tuna in water works fine for a lighter version.
Keywords:Avocado, Salad, Tuna

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

Serving Size 1 side portion (~180g)


Amount Per Serving
Calories 304kcal
% Daily Value *
Total Fat 20g31%
Sodium 420mg18%
Total Carbohydrate 9g3%
Dietary Fiber 5g20%
Sugars 2g
Protein 22g44%

Vitamin A 220 IU
Vitamin C 9 mg
Calcium 35 mg
Iron 1.8 mg
Vitamin D 40 IU

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000‑calorie diet, and your daily needs may be higher or lower depending on your lifestyle. Nutrition information is shared only as a general estimate and may not always be fully accurate. If you follow a special diet or have specific health concerns, it’s best to check with a registered dietitian for personalized guidance.

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About Author

Sophie Garcia

Hi, I’m Sophie! I share cozy, approachable recipes on Pure Recipe Bliss. It is simple dishes made with love to bring warmth and joy to everyday cooking.

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