Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados
Highlighted under: World Food
I love making Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados for a quick, nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy avocado, zesty tuna, and fresh veggies creates a delightful balance that I can’t resist. It's my go-to recipe when I want something healthy yet satisfying. Each bite delivers a taste of the Mediterranean, and it’s so easy to prepare. Whether for lunch, dinner, or even a snack, these stuffed avocados are sure to impress my family and friends.
When I first made Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados, I was surprised by how quickly they came together and how full of flavor they were. I used high-quality canned tuna mixed with a splash of lemon juice, fresh herbs, and crumbled feta cheese for that authentic Mediterranean taste. The creamy avocado acts as the perfect vessel, making each bite rich and satisfying.
A tip I found helpful is to be generous with the spices and herbs. A sprinkle of oregano and some fresh parsley elevate the dish. I also love adding an extra drizzle of olive oil over the top for added richness and flavor.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy avocado paired with zesty tuna for a satisfying meal
- Fresh Mediterranean flavors that transport you to sunny shores
- Easy and quick preparation makes it perfect for busy days
Selecting the Perfect Avocado
When choosing avocados for this recipe, opt for ripe ones that yield slightly to pressure. A perfectly ripe avocado will have a creamy texture that complements the tuna filling. Avoid overripe avocados that may have brown spots or a mushy consistency, as they can compromise the dish's overall appeal.
If you find yourself with unripe avocados, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a brown paper bag at room temperature. This traps ethylene gas, which encourages ripening. Alternatively, you can use a ripened avocado in a pinch for a smoother filling.
Enhancing Flavor with Fresh Ingredients
The Mediterranean flavor profile shines through with the use of fresh ingredients like cherry tomatoes and cucumbers. Cherry tomatoes add sweetness and juiciness, while cucumbers provide a refreshing crunch. Opt for student-cooked or slightly chilled tomatoes, as they are more flavorful. Feel free to substitute grape tomatoes for a similar taste.
To amplify the dish's taste, consider incorporating ingredients like red onion or capers for an extra zing. These can add a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the avocado and tuna, making every bite memorable. Just be mindful not to overpower the dish with too many strong flavors.
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious and healthy meal:
For the Stuffing
- 1 can of tuna, drained
- 1 ripe avocado, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- ¼ cup of diced cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup of diced cucumbers
- 2 tablespoons of crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Once you have everything ready, you’re just a few steps away from enjoying this delectable dish!
Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare your Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados:
Mix the Filling
In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), lemon juice, diced cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, crumbled feta, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Prepare the Avocados
Scoop out a little bit of avocado flesh from the halves to create more space for the filling. Add the flesh to the tuna mixture and gently combine.
Stuff the Avocados
Spoon the tuna stuffing into the avocado halves, pressing lightly to secure it in place.
Garnish and Serve
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious and nutritious Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients such as olives or bell peppers for added flavor.
Storage Tips for Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the unused stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It should remain fresh for up to two days. When storing, avoid mixing avocado flesh with the tuna filling to prevent browning and deterioration of texture.
If you want to make this recipe ahead of time, prepare the tuna mixture in advance but keep the avocados unstuffed until just before serving. This preserves the vibrant green color and creamy texture, ensuring that your meal looks as delicious as it tastes.
Serving Suggestions
Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados are incredibly versatile. Serve them alongside a simple green salad dressed in olive oil and lemon juice for a balanced meal. You can also present them with warm pita bread or crisp crackers to add an extra layer of texture and enjoyment.
For a more substantial dish, serve these stuffed avocados over a bed of quinoa or couscous. This not only elevates the nutrition but also makes your presentation more visually striking, perfect for gatherings or special occasions.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use other types of fish?
Absolutely! You can substitute canned salmon or even grilled chicken if you prefer.
→ How long can I store the stuffed avocados?
It's best to enjoy them fresh, but you can store the filling in the fridge for up to 2 days. Just don't stuff the avocados until you're ready to eat.
→ Is this recipe low-carb?
Yes, avocados are low in carbohydrates, making this a great option for low-carb diets.
→ Can I make this ahead of time?
You can prepare the filling in advance and stuff the avocados just before serving to keep them fresh and green.
Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados
I love making Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados for a quick, nutritious meal that’s bursting with flavor. The combination of creamy avocado, zesty tuna, and fresh veggies creates a delightful balance that I can’t resist. It's my go-to recipe when I want something healthy yet satisfying. Each bite delivers a taste of the Mediterranean, and it’s so easy to prepare. Whether for lunch, dinner, or even a snack, these stuffed avocados are sure to impress my family and friends.
What You'll Need
For the Stuffing
- 1 can of tuna, drained
- 1 ripe avocado, halved and pitted
- 2 tablespoons of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon of lemon juice
- ¼ cup of diced cherry tomatoes
- ¼ cup of diced cucumbers
- 2 tablespoons of crumbled feta cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
How-To Steps
In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), lemon juice, diced cherry tomatoes, diced cucumbers, crumbled feta, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
Scoop out a little bit of avocado flesh from the halves to create more space for the filling. Add the flesh to the tuna mixture and gently combine.
Spoon the tuna stuffing into the avocado halves, pressing lightly to secure it in place.
Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to customize the stuffing with your favorite ingredients such as olives or bell peppers for added flavor.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Cholesterol: 30mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 12g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 20g