This creamy avocado tuna salad is a perfect lunch! It’s made with fresh avocado, tender tuna, and a few simple seasonings for a tasty meal.
I love how quickly it comes together—just mix everything in a bowl! It’s so good on its own or served in a sandwich. You’ll want to make this again and again!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Avocados: Ripe avocados are key for creaminess. If you’re in a pinch, you can use store-bought guacamole; just check for added ingredients.
Tuna: Canned tuna is convenient, but you could also use canned salmon or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Both options work great!
Red Onion: Red onion gives a nice kick! If it’s too strong for you, use green onions or shallots instead. They’ll provide a milder flavor.
Celery: Celery adds crunch, but feel free to replace it with diced cucumber or bell peppers for a different texture and taste.
Mayonnaise: This is optional, as the avocados already lend creaminess. Greek yogurt can be a lighter substitute if you prefer a tangy flavor.
How Do I Get the Perfect Mash on My Avocados?
To get a creamy texture without over-mashing, scoop your avocados into the bowl and mash them slightly with a fork. Aim to leave some chunky bits; this adds wonderful texture to the salad!
- Keep a fork handy for easy mashing. Start with slight pressure and gradually mash to your desired consistency.
- If your avocados are perfectly ripe, they’ll mash easily without becoming too smooth.
- Don’t forget to season with lemon juice right away! This keeps the color bright and fresh while adding flavor.
Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad Recipe for Easy Lunch
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 ripe avocados
- 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup celery, finely chopped
- 1-2 tablespoons mayonnaise (optional, for extra creaminess)
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped fresh cilantro or parsley for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious avocado tuna salad comes together in about 10-15 minutes. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner! Just gather your ingredients, mix, and you’re ready to eat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preparing the Avocados:
Start by cutting the avocados in half and removing the pits. Scoop out the green flesh and place it into a medium mixing bowl. Be careful not to waste any yummy avocado!
2. Mashing the Avocados:
Using a fork, mash the avocado until it’s creamy but still has some chunky bits. This gives the salad a lovely texture and makes it more interesting to eat!
3. Mixing in the Tuna:
Add the drained tuna to the bowl with the mashed avocado. Gently mix the two together, being careful not to mash the tuna too much—this salad should have some nice pieces in it!
4. Adding the Crunch:
Next, stir in the finely chopped red onion and celery. These add a delightful crunch and flavor that perfectly complements the creamy avocado.
5. Seasoning the Salad:
If you want a little extra creaminess, add the mayonnaise now. Then, squeeze in the fresh lemon juice and sprinkle the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good mix until combined and adjust the seasoning to your taste.
6. Serving Your Salad:
Your creamy avocado tuna salad is now ready to enjoy! Serve it right away on its own, over a bed of greens, or as a delicious filling for sandwiches or wraps. If you like, sprinkle some chopped cilantro or parsley on top for a burst of color and freshness.
Enjoy your wholesome and creamy avocado tuna salad — perfect for a quick and tasty lunch!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Types of Tuna?
Absolutely! While canned tuna is standard, you can also use tuna packed in oil for a richer flavor or even substitute it with canned salmon or chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
How Do I Store Leftover Tuna Salad?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Make sure to keep it covered to maintain freshness. If it gets too thick, just stir in a little lemon juice or mayo when you’re ready to eat again!
What If My Avocados Are Not Ripe?
If your avocados aren’t quite ripe, place them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two to speed up the ripening process. They should feel slightly soft when gently pressed; that’s the perfect time to use them!
Can I Make This Salad Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep your ingredients in advance—just wait to mix them until you’re ready to eat to prevent the avocado from browning. If you’ve mixed it already, add a bit more lemon juice to help keep it fresh!