This creamy avocado tuna salad is one of my favorite light, fresh, and protein-packed meals. Instead of using mayo, I mash ripe avocado into the tuna for a rich, creamy texture that’s full of heart-healthy fats and zesty flavor. It’s quick, satisfying, and perfect for lunch, wraps, or lettuce cups.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I love how easy and nutritious this recipe is. With no mayo and no cooking required, it’s an ideal option when I want something fast and healthy. The avocado makes it creamy, the lemon juice keeps it bright, and the crunchy veggies bring it all together. Plus, it’s naturally low-carb and gluten-free, which makes it a great choice for all kinds of diets.
Ingredients
(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
- Canned tuna (drained)
- Ripe avocado
- Red onion (finely chopped)
- Celery (diced)
- Lemon juice
- Salt
- Black pepper
- Optional: garlic powder, fresh dill, or a pinch of chili flakes
Directions
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I scoop the avocado into a medium bowl and mash it with a fork until mostly smooth.
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I add the drained tuna and mix it with the avocado until well combined.
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I stir in the red onion, celery, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
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I taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, sometimes adding garlic powder or chili flakes for an extra kick.
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I serve it right away in a sandwich, lettuce wrap, or over greens—or I chill it for later.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes about 2 servings, and it comes together in just 10 minutes. It’s ideal for busy weekdays or when I want a healthy meal without a lot of effort.
Variations
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I mix in chopped pickles or capers for a briny pop.
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Sometimes I add diced tomato or cucumber for a fresh twist.
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I serve it on toast, in wraps, or stuffed into avocado halves for a fun presentation.
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I use canned salmon instead of tuna when I want to switch it up.
storage/reheating
Since avocado browns over time, I store leftovers in an airtight container with a piece of plastic wrap pressed directly against the surface. It lasts in the fridge for about 1 day. I don’t reheat this—it’s best enjoyed cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I make this ahead of time?
I make it the same day I plan to eat it. For prepping ahead, I chop the veggies and drain the tuna, then mash everything together just before serving.
What type of tuna works best?
I use solid white albacore in water for a firmer texture, but chunk light tuna works too—it’s all about personal preference.
How do I keep the avocado from browning?
I add lemon juice and press plastic wrap directly on the surface before sealing the container. That helps a lot.
Is this good for weight loss or low-carb diets?
Yes, it’s high in protein and healthy fats, low in carbs, and really filling. I eat it in lettuce wraps for a low-carb meal.
Can I add hard-boiled eggs?
Definitely. I chop one or two and mix them in for extra protein and texture—it makes it even more satisfying.
Conclusion
This avocado tuna salad is one of those recipes I always turn to when I want something quick, creamy, and good for me. It’s simple, flavorful, and totally customizable, whether I’m eating it straight from the bowl or packed into a wrap. It never lets me down.
Print
Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 10 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings
- Category: Lunch, Salad
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This Creamy Avocado Tuna Salad is a healthy, no-mayo alternative to traditional tuna salad. Made with ripe avocado, crunchy veggies, and zesty lemon juice, it’s protein-packed, low-carb, and perfect for sandwiches, lettuce wraps, or a quick snack. Light, fresh, and full of flavor, it’s your new go-to lunch in under 10 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 can tuna, drained (solid white albacore or chunk light)
- 1 ripe avocado
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, diced
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: garlic powder, fresh dill, pinch of chili flakes
Instructions
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In a medium bowl, mash the avocado with a fork until mostly smooth.
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Add the drained tuna and mix until well combined.
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Stir in red onion, celery, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
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Taste and adjust seasoning. Add garlic powder or chili flakes if desired.
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Serve immediately in a sandwich, wrap, lettuce cups, or over salad greens.
Notes
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Mix in chopped pickles or capers for extra tang.
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Add diced tomato or cucumber for freshness.
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Swap tuna with canned salmon for variety.
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Serve in avocado halves for a fun, low-carb option.
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Best enjoyed fresh; leftovers keep for 1 day in an airtight container with plastic wrap pressed against the surface.
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