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Canned Tuna Avocado Salad

canned tuna avocado salad

A quick and healthy salad with canned tuna, ripe avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and a tangy lemon-Dijon dressing. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, and can be served on a bed of salad leaves.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350

Ingredients
  

  • 2 x 120g cans of tuna in spring water or olive oil drained
  • 2 ripe avocados diced
  • 1 small red onion finely diced
  • 1 large handful of cherry tomatoes halved (about 150g)
  • 1 cucumber diced (about 200g)
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives or flat-leaf parsley chopped
  • Optional: 100g mixed salad leaves or rocket for serving

Method
 

  1. Prepare the dressing: In a small jar or bowl, combine the lemon juice, olive oil, and Dijon mustard. Pop the lid on and shake vigorously until the dressing looks thick and emulsified — it should smell bright and tangy.
  2. Prep the vegetables: Dice the avocado into even, bite-sized cubes — you want them to hold their shape, not turn to mush. Finely chop the red onion so it’s almost translucent, then halve the cherry tomatoes and dice the cucumber. The cucumber should feel crisp and cool in your hand.
  3. Flake the tuna: Drain the tuna well and tip it into a large salad bowl. Use a fork to break it into flakes — you’re looking for a mix of small chunks and finer shreds, not a paste. The tuna should look light and fluffy.
  4. Combine everything: Add the diced avocado, red onion, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber to the bowl with the tuna. Pour over the dressing and toss gently with salad servers until everything is evenly coated. The avocado should just start to soften against the other ingredients, but still hold its shape.
  5. Season and finish: Sprinkle over the chopped herbs, then season generously with salt and pepper. Give it one more gentle toss — the aroma of lemon and herbs should be fresh and inviting.
  6. Serve or chill: If serving immediately, pile the salad onto a bed of rocket or salad leaves. The leaves will wilt slightly from the dressing, turning a deeper green. If you’re prepping ahead, cover and refrigerate for up to 2 hours — the flavours will meld beautifully.

Notes

To keep avocados from browning, toss them in a little lemon juice before adding to the salad. If making ahead, refrigerate for up to 2 hours for best texture and flavor.