Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados
Highlighted under: Around the World Recipes
I absolutely love making Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados for a quick and nutritious meal. The combination of creamy avocado, hearty tuna, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors creates a dish that's not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the smooth avocado to the tender tuna, combined with fresh veggies. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a refreshing lunch option. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular rotation!
When I first tried Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados, I was amazed at how simple ingredients could come together for such a delicious meal. The secret is in the quality of the tuna; opting for sustainably sourced tuna not only enhances the flavor but also supports ethical practices. I like to mix in a bit of Greek yogurt for creaminess, along with a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten up the dish.
One time, I decided to experiment by adding some roasted red peppers to the mix, which added a lovely sweetness and depth to the stuffing. It turned out to be a delightful twist that I now recommend to my friends. Give it a try when you want to impress without too much effort!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Creamy avocado provides a perfect base for the flavorful tuna filling.
- Quick preparation makes it an ideal meal for busy days.
- Packed with healthy fats and protein, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
Choosing the Right Avocados
Selecting perfect avocados is crucial for this recipe. Aim for ripe avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure, indicating they are creamy and ready to be filled. If you find avocados that are too firm, you can expedite their ripening by placing them in a paper bag at room temperature for a day or two. Just remember to check them daily to avoid overripening.
Once you have your avocados, cutting them can be tricky. Use a sharp knife to ensure a clean cut, and be careful not to slice through the pit, as this can make it hard to remove. If your avocados are perfectly ripe, they will scoop easily without browning, but if you're concerned about browning, a little extra lemon juice on the cut surfaces can help preserve their vibrant color.
Enhancing the Tuna Filling
The tuna mixture is versatile, allowing you to customize flavors based on your preferences. For a spicy kick, add a few dashes of hot sauce or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the tuna filling. Alternatively, incorporating finely chopped red onion or bell peppers can introduce a nice crunch and additional depth of flavor. The Greek yogurt not only provides creaminess but also adds a tangy contrast to the rich avocado.
If you're looking for a lower-carb option, consider substituting the tuna with canned chicken or chickpeas for a plant-based protein. Chickpeas can be mashed or left whole, depending on your texture preference. This makes the recipe adaptable not only for taste but for dietary concerns, ensuring that anyone can enjoy this nutritious meal.
Serving and Storage Tips
These Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados shine as a quick lunch or a stunning appetizer at gatherings. If you're preparing them ahead of time, stuff the avocados just before serving to keep everything looking fresh and appealing. For a charming presentation, serve them on a platter garnished with lemon wedges and additional herbs, heightening their inviting look.
If you have leftovers, store the assembled avocados in an airtight container in the refrigerator but note that the avocados may start to brown after a few hours. You can prevent this by storing the filling separately and assembling fresh each time, allowing for a quick grab-and-go option that's still visually delightful.
Ingredients
Ingredients
For the Tuna Filling
- 1 can of tuna, drained
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocados
- 2 ripe avocados
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
Instructions
Instructions
Prepare the Tuna Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, diced cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Mix well until all ingredients are integrated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Prepare the Avocados
Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Use a spoon to gently scoop out a little extra flesh to create more room for the filling, if desired.
Stuff the Avocados
Evenly distribute the tuna mixture into the avocado halves, packing it nicely.
Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and serve immediately.
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like olives or capers for an extra burst of flavor. If you're preparing this dish in advance, store the avocado halves in an airtight container to prevent browning.
Flavor Pairing Ideas
Consider serving your Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados with a side of whole-grain pita chips or a light arugula salad. The peppery arugula complements the creaminess of the avocado and the savory tuna, providing a refreshing contrast. Drizzle the salad with a simple vinaigrette made from olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and a sprinkle of salt to elevate the dish further.
For added elegance, serve the stuffed avocados with a side of tzatziki sauce. The cool, creamy yogurt sauce enhances the Mediterranean flavors beautifully, offering a delightful dipping option. It's also great for drizzling over the top of your stuffed avocados for an even more vibrant presentation.
Nutritional Benefits
This recipe is packed with nutritional benefits. Avocados provide heart-healthy monounsaturated fats, which are essential for maintaining healthy cholesterol levels. They’re also rich in fiber, aiding in digestion and promoting a feeling of fullness. The tuna adds lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, known for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Using Greek yogurt instead of mayo not only cuts down on calories but also boosts protein content and enhances gut health with probiotics. This dish becomes an excellent source of essential nutrients, making it a smart choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet without sacrificing flavor.
Scaling and Variations
This recipe can easily be scaled to serve larger groups. Simply multiply the ingredients according to your needs, keeping in mind that you should balance the filling with the number of avocados you have. Planning to serve a big crowd? You can prepare the tuna salad in bulk and set up a DIY stuffing station at your gathering, allowing guests to fill their own avocados at their convenience.
For a more tropical twist, consider adding diced mango or pineapple to the tuna mixture to bring a sweet contrast to the savory flavors. For those who enjoy spice, chopped jalapeños or a sprinkle of paprika can elevate the dish, making it diverse enough to cater to varying palates.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna?
Yes, canned salmon is a great alternative and works wonderfully in this recipe.
→ How can I prevent the avocados from browning?
Squeeze a little lemon juice over the avocado flesh right after cutting to help prevent browning.
→ Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Absolutely! You can prepare the tuna filling ahead of time and stuff the avocados just before serving.
→ What can I serve with stuffed avocados?
These stuffed avocados can be served on their own or alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados
I absolutely love making Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados for a quick and nutritious meal. The combination of creamy avocado, hearty tuna, and vibrant Mediterranean flavors creates a dish that's not only satisfying but also visually appealing. Each bite offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the smooth avocado to the tender tuna, combined with fresh veggies. Plus, it only takes about 20 minutes to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights or a refreshing lunch option. Trust me, you’ll want to add this recipe to your regular rotation!
Created by: Brittany Shaw
Recipe Type: Around the World Recipes
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Tuna Filling
- 1 can of tuna, drained
- 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Avocados
- 2 ripe avocados
- Fresh parsley or dill for garnish
How-To Steps
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, diced cherry tomatoes, and cucumber. Mix well until all ingredients are integrated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Use a spoon to gently scoop out a little extra flesh to create more room for the filling, if desired.
Evenly distribute the tuna mixture into the avocado halves, packing it nicely.
Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, and serve immediately.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the filling by adding ingredients like olives or capers for an extra burst of flavor. If you're preparing this dish in advance, store the avocado halves in an airtight container to prevent browning.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 200mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 10g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 18g