Hey y'all! If you're craving something light, fresh, and packed with flavor, this Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad is just what you need. It's a healthy spin on classic tuna salad—rich, creamy, and incredibly satisfying, thanks to luscious avocado and crisp veggies. Whether you need a quick lunch, a picnic dish, or a meal-prep favorite, this salad checks all the boxes. Grab your ingredients—let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad
- Super Quick: Ready in just 10 minutes—perfect for busy days!
- No Mayo Needed: Avocado brings natural creaminess and healthy fats.
- Nutrient-dense: Loaded with protein, fiber, and omega-3s.
- Versatile: Enjoy it in a sandwich, lettuce wrap, or on its own.
- Diet-Friendly: Naturally gluten-free, dairy-free, and keto-friendly.
Ingredients for Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad
- 2 (5 oz) cans tuna in water, drained
- 1 large ripe avocado
- ½ cup diced cucumber
- ¼ cup finely chopped red onion
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon extra-virgin olive oil
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt & black pepper, to taste
Directions: How to Make Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad
Step 1: Prep the Avocado
Cut the avocado in half, remove the pit, and scoop the flesh into a large mixing bowl. Mash lightly with a fork until it’s mostly smooth, leaving some small chunks for texture.
Step 2: Combine the Ingredients
Add the drained tuna, diced cucumber, red onion, chopped cilantro, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Gently fold everything together until well combined and creamy.
Step 3: Taste and Adjust
Taste the salad and add more lemon juice, salt, or pepper if desired. Serve immediately for the best texture and flavor!
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
Notes: Tips for Perfect Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad
- For extra crunch, toss in a handful of diced celery or bell pepper.
- Use perfectly ripe avocados for the best creamy consistency.
- Want to add a boost of flavor? Try a dash of homemade ranch dressing in place of plain olive oil.
Variations: Creative Twists on Avocado Tuna Salad
- Spicy Avocado Tuna Salad: Mix in 1-2 teaspoons of sriracha or chopped jalapeños for a kick.
- Greek-Style: Add halved cherry tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and crumbled feta cheese.
- Egg & Avocado Tuna Salad: Chop 2 hard-boiled eggs and fold them in for extra protein and richness.
Required Equipment for Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad
- Large mixing bowl
- Fork (for mashing)
- Sharp knife
- Cutting board
- Can opener
Storage Instructions: Keeping Your Avocado Tuna Salad Fresh
Store Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator. For best results, enjoy within 1-2 days, as avocado tends to brown over time. To help prevent browning, press a piece of plastic wrap directly onto the surface before sealing the lid.
Suggested Pairings & Serving Recommendations
- Spoon onto toasted whole-grain bread or inside pita pockets for a hearty sandwich.
- Serve on a bed of crisp lettuce or in lettuce cups for a low-carb meal.
- Enjoy with crackers or veggie sticks as a snack or appetizer.
Pro Tips for the Best Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad
- Use high-quality tuna, such as sustainably caught or wild-caught when possible (learn more at EatingWell).
- If prepping ahead, add a bit more lemon juice to slow avocado browning.
- Chill your salad for 10 minutes before serving for an extra-refreshing bite.
FAQ: Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad
Can I make Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad ahead of time?
Yes, but for best texture and color, enjoy it the same day or within 24 hours.
Do I have to use fresh lemon juice?
Fresh lemon juice gives a brighter, fresher flavor, but bottled lemon juice works in a pinch.
Is this tuna salad gluten-free?
Absolutely—the salad itself is gluten-free! Just check your add-ins and serving choices if you have celiac disease or gluten sensitivity.
Ingredients
- 2 ripe avocados, diced
- 2 cans (5 oz each) tuna in water, drained
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- ¼ cup red onion, finely chopped
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
Instructions
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1In a large bowl, combine the diced avocados and drained tuna.
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2Add the Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and lemon juice to the bowl. Gently mix until creamy and combined.
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3Stir in the cherry tomatoes, red onion, and chopped cilantro.
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4Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Mix gently to combine.
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5Serve immediately as a salad, in lettuce cups, or on whole grain bread.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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