Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados
Highlighted under: Global Home Cooking
I absolutely love making Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados for a quick yet satisfying meal. The combination of creamy avocado and flavorful tuna is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. This dish is perfect for lunch or a light dinner, and I can whip it up in just 20 minutes! The freshness of the herbs and the zing from the lemon juice elevate the dish, making it a delightful experience for anyone who tries it. Trust me, once you taste it, you'll want to make it again and again!
While experimenting with healthy meal options, I stumbled upon the idea of stuffing avocados with tuna. It turned out to be a genius move, as the creaminess of the avocado pairs perfectly with the protein-rich tuna. To add a Mediterranean twist, I included olives, tomatoes, and feta cheese, enhancing the flavors beautifully. The result was a satisfying meal that kept me full and energized!
One tip I discovered along the way is to use ripe avocados; they should yield slightly to pressure when you squeeze them. This ensures you get the best texture and richness. Also, remember to serve the dish immediately to enjoy the avocados at their freshest!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Creamy and rich texture from ripe avocados
- Bursting with Mediterranean flavors from the herbs and spices
- A healthy, low-carb meal option that's quick to prepare
- Versatile – easily customizable with your favorite ingredients
Key Ingredients and Their Roles
Each component of the Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados contributes to the overall flavor and texture harmony of the dish. The creamy avocado acts as a rich base, offering a smooth mouthfeel that contrasts beautifully with the firm bites of the tuna and crunchy vegetables. Fresh herbs like parsley not only enhance the visual appeal but infuse a vibrant freshness that cuts through the richness of the feta and olives, bringing balance to each bite.
Using good quality tuna is crucial. Opt for albacore or yellowfin tuna packed in water for a leaner option, or go for oil-packed tuna for added flavor. The tomatoes and cucumbers provide hydration and a subtle sweetness that complements the salty feta and briny olives. I personally prefer harvesting ripe tomatoes from my garden when in season, as they deliver the best burst of flavor.
Tips for Perfecting Your Stuffed Avocados
To ensure your stuffed avocados stay fresh and aesthetically pleasing, choose avocados that are ripe yet firm. A perfectly ripe avocado should yield slightly to gentle pressure but shouldn’t feel mushy. If you plan to make this dish ahead of time, preparing the filling in advance is your best bet. Just keep the avocado halves separate and fill them closer to serving time to prevent browning.
For a bit of extra zest, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the tuna mixture. This not only enhances flavor but adds a delightful kick that contrasts nicely with the creaminess of the avocado. If you’re looking for a creamier filling, try mixing in a tablespoon of plain Greek yogurt or mayonnaise; these options create a smoother texture while maintaining the dish’s Mediterranean essence.
Ingredients
For the Stuffed Avocados
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Kalamata olives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Prepare the Avocados
Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Carefully scoop out a small portion of the flesh to create enough space for the filling. Set the scooped avocado aside for later use.
Make the Tuna Filling
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, diced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chopped olives, feta cheese, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Stuff the Avocados
Spoon the tuna mixture into the hollowed-out avocado halves generously. You can use the scooped avocado flesh to enhance the tuna mixture if desired.
Serve
Enjoy immediately, garnished with extra parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese if you like.
Pro Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes to the tuna mixture. You can also swap the tuna for canned salmon or chickpeas for a different flavor profile.
Storing and Serving Suggestions
Leftover stuffed avocado can be a challenge due to the avocado's tendency to brown. However, if you find yourself with leftovers, store the filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To keep the avocados fresh, squeeze extra lemon juice over the exposed flesh before refrigerating. This not only slows the browning process but also imparts a refreshing zing to the avocados when you enjoy them again.
These stuffed avocados are versatile for serving. They can be enjoyed as is for a light meal or accompanied by a side salad for a heartier serving. I love pairing them with a simple arugula salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette, which complements the creamy and savory notes of the tuna and avocado.
Variations and Customization Ideas
Customization is key to making the Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados your own. Feel free to substitute the tuna with shredded chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Additionally, adding spices like smoked paprika or fresh dill can alter the flavor profile to suit your tastes. For an Italian twist, you might replace the feta cheese with mozzarella pearls and add basil instead of parsley.
If you're looking to boost the nutritional value, consider mixing in additional fiber-rich ingredients, such as chopped artichoke hearts or even quinoa. This not only expands the flavor palette but makes the dish more filling while keeping it within a low-carb framework. The options are plentiful, so don’t hesitate to experiment!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I prepare the stuffed avocados ahead of time?
It's best to prepare the avocado just before serving to prevent browning. You can, however, make the tuna filling a few hours in advance.
→ What can I substitute for tuna?
You can use canned chicken, chickpeas, or even roasted vegetables for a vegetarian option.
→ Are there any variations I can try?
Absolutely! Feel free to add ingredients like diced bell peppers, capers, or different herbs to customize the flavor to your liking.
→ How long will leftovers keep in the fridge?
If you have leftover filling, it can be stored in an airtight container for up to 2 days in the refrigerator, but it's best enjoyed fresh.
Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados
I absolutely love making Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados for a quick yet satisfying meal. The combination of creamy avocado and flavorful tuna is not only delicious but also incredibly nutritious. This dish is perfect for lunch or a light dinner, and I can whip it up in just 20 minutes! The freshness of the herbs and the zing from the lemon juice elevate the dish, making it a delightful experience for anyone who tries it. Trust me, once you taste it, you'll want to make it again and again!
Created by: Harriet Collins
Recipe Type: Global Home Cooking
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 2 servings
What You'll Need
For the Stuffed Avocados
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
- 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, diced
- 1/4 cup cucumber, diced
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons Kalamata olives, chopped
- 2 tablespoons feta cheese, crumbled
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Carefully scoop out a small portion of the flesh to create enough space for the filling. Set the scooped avocado aside for later use.
In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, diced cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, chopped olives, feta cheese, parsley, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are evenly incorporated.
Spoon the tuna mixture into the hollowed-out avocado halves generously. You can use the scooped avocado flesh to enhance the tuna mixture if desired.
Enjoy immediately, garnished with extra parsley or a sprinkle of feta cheese if you like.
Extra Tips
- For an extra kick, consider adding a splash of hot sauce or some crushed red pepper flakes to the tuna mixture. You can also swap the tuna for canned salmon or chickpeas for a different flavor profile.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 320 kcal
- Total Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Cholesterol: 15mg
- Sodium: 350mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 15g
- Dietary Fiber: 7g
- Sugars: 2g
- Protein: 18g