Save Savor the fresh, bright flavors of the coast with these Mediterranean Tuna Salad Stuffed Avocados. This dish transforms simple ingredients into a vibrant, gourmet meal that is both nutritious and incredibly easy to assemble. By combining the rich, buttery texture of ripe avocados with a zesty, vegetable-packed tuna salad, you create a satisfying dish that works perfectly as a light lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or a quick low-carb dinner.
Save This recipe is as beautiful as it is delicious, offering a rainbow of colors from cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and roasted red peppers. The use of tuna packed in olive oil adds a layer of authenticity and richness, which is balanced perfectly by the acidity of fresh lemon juice and the salty punch of Kalamata olives and feta cheese. It is the ultimate no-cook solution that does not sacrifice taste or presentation.
Ingredients
- Tuna Salad
- 2 (5 oz/140 g) cans tuna in olive oil, drained
- 1/2 cup (75 g) cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 1/3 cup (50 g) cucumber, diced
- 1/4 cup (40 g) Kalamata olives, pitted and sliced
- 1/4 cup (35 g) red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup (35 g) roasted red peppers, diced
- 2 tbsp (30 g) feta cheese, crumbled
- 2 tbsp (8 g) fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tbsp (30 ml) extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tbsp (15 ml) lemon juice
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Avocados
- 2 large ripe avocados
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, olives, red onion, roasted red peppers, feta cheese, and parsley.
- Step 2
- Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice, sprinkle with oregano, and season with salt and black pepper. Gently mix until well combined.
- Step 3
- Slice the avocados in half lengthwise and remove the pits. Gently scoop out a small amount of flesh from each half to create a larger cavity, and set aside the scooped avocado.
- Step 4
- Dice the reserved avocado flesh and fold it into the tuna salad mixture.
- Step 5
- Fill each avocado half generously with the Mediterranean tuna salad.
- Step 6
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra parsley or a sprinkle of feta if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
When preparing the avocados, use a spoon to gently scoop out a small amount of the flesh to create a larger 'bowl' for the tuna mixture. Be sure to dice this extra avocado and fold it back into the salad to ensure none of that creamy goodness goes to waste. Using avocados that are perfectly ripe—yielding slightly to gentle pressure—will provide the best texture for this dish.
Varianten und Anpassungen
For a dairy-free option, you can easily omit the feta cheese or substitute it with your favorite vegan feta alternative. If you want to vary the protein, canned salmon or finely chopped grilled chicken make excellent substitutes for the tuna. You can also customize the vegetables based on what you have on hand, such as adding diced celery for extra crunch.
Serviervorschläge
These stuffed avocados are best served immediately with a side of mixed greens or whole-grain crackers for a more filling meal. To elevate the experience, pair this dish with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light, chilled rosé. For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with a few extra sprigs of fresh parsley or a dash of black pepper right before serving.
Save Whether you are looking for a healthy weekday lunch or a sophisticated starter for your next gathering, these Mediterranean Tuna Salad Stuffed Avocados are a guaranteed success. They offer a nutrient-dense way to enjoy classic Mediterranean ingredients in a presentation that is as appealing to the eye as it is to the palate. Enjoy the simplicity of fresh ingredients prepared with care.
Recipe FAQ Section
- → Can I make Mediterranean stuffed avocados ahead of time?
Prepare the tuna salad mixture up to 24 hours in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Wait to cut and fill the avocados until just before serving, as they will oxidize and turn brown once cut. If you need to prep further ahead, brush the avocado halves with lemon juice to slow browning.
- → What type of tuna works best for this dish?
Tuna packed in olive oil provides the best flavor and texture, as the oil adds richness to the salad. If using water-packed tuna, drain it well and consider adding an extra tablespoon of olive oil to the mixture. Solid white albacore offers a meatier texture, while chunk light tuna works perfectly fine and tends to be more budget-friendly.
- → How do I select perfectly ripe avocados?
Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure when squeezed in your palm. They should feel firm but not hard, with no mushy spots or dark indentations. If your avocados are underripe, let them sit at room temperature for 1-3 days. Once ripe, they can be refrigerated for 2-3 days to extend their shelf life.
- → Are there variations for different dietary needs?
This dish is naturally gluten-free and low-carb. For a dairy-free version, simply omit the feta cheese or use a vegan feta alternative. You can swap the tuna for canned salmon or chopped grilled chicken for a different protein source. Add sliced almonds or pine nuts for extra crunch and healthy fats.
- → What sides pair well with Mediterranean tuna stuffed avocados?
Serve alongside mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a complete meal. Whole-grain crackers, toasted pita bread, or crusty bread help soak up the flavorful juices. For a heartier meal, add quinoa tabbouleh, roasted vegetables, or a simple Greek salad with cucumber and tomatoes.
- → How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover tuna salad separately from the avocado halves in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The salad will keep for 2-3 days. Unfortunately, filled avocado halves don't store well as they brown quickly. If you have leftover avocado, store it in a container with a piece of onion to prevent browning, though it's best enjoyed fresh.