Healthy Tuna Stuffed Avocado is a wonderful example of how simple ingredients can create something truly special. This dish combines the creamy, rich texture of avocado with the light, refreshing taste of tuna, creating a perfect balance. The addition of red bell pepper and jalapeno introduces a subtle crunch and a hint of spice, while the lime juice adds a zesty freshness. This meal is not just about the taste; it’s also about convenience and health. It’s quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy moms who want to enjoy a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Whether you’re looking for a light lunch or a satisfying snack, this dish is sure to please.
This Healthy Tuna Stuffed Avocado is stuffed with a flavorful southwest mixture of tuna, bell pepper, jalapeno, and cilantro. No mayo necessary here! It’s the perfect healthy lunch.
We were making this recipe a couple of times each week for months before finally publishing it to share with the world. We came up with it one day simply based on what was lying around in the kitchen. We immediately fell in love. It is our absolute favorite lunch. We hear that you aren’t supposed to eat tuna more than twice a week, so maybe we shouldn’t make this every day, but you can bet that we absolutely want to. Not only is this so easy to make, but it is also incredibly healthy.
Ingredient Breakdown and Substitutions
- Avocado: Choose ripe avocados for creaminess. If unavailable, ripe mangoes can offer a sweet twist.
- Tuna: Opt for canned light tuna in water for a leaner option. Canned salmon or canned chicken can also be used in place of the tuna to switch things up. For a vegetarian version, chickpeas are a great alternative.
- Red Bell Pepper: Adds crunch and color. Substitute with diced tomato for a juicier texture.
- Jalapeno: For less heat, use green bell peppers.
- Cilantro: If not to your taste, try parsley or chives.
- Lime Juice: Lemon juice works well as a substitute.
Tuna Options
When selecting tuna for your dish, understanding the different types available can help you choose the best option for your taste preferences and health considerations. Here’s a look at four popular types of tuna you might find at your supermarket:
- Solid White Albacore Tuna: Known for its less “fishy” taste and firmer texture, solid white albacore is a premium choice. It’s particularly rich in omega-3 fatty acids, beneficial for heart health. However, it’s also higher in mercury, so it’s advisable to consume it in moderation. This variety is excellent for those who prefer a milder tuna flavor.
- Skipjack/Light Tuna: Skipjack, often labeled as light tuna, is more affordable and has a stronger tuna flavor. It’s lower in mercury compared to albacore, making it a safer option for regular consumption. Its texture is usually flakier, and it’s a great all-around choice for various recipes, including tuna stuffed avocado.
- Yellowfin Tuna (Ahi): Yellowfin, or Ahi, is another popular variety. It offers a richer flavor and firmer texture than albacore, and is often found in both canned and pouch forms. Yellowfin is a good middle ground between the mildness of albacore and the stronger flavor of skipjack.
- Chunk Light Tuna: This type is typically a blend of various smaller tuna species like skipjack or yellowfin. It has a more pronounced fish flavor and a flakier texture than solid white albacore. Chunk light tuna is versatile and works well in a variety of dishes, offering a more robust tuna taste.
Storage Instructions
Tuna Stuffed Avocados are best served fresh. You can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for a couple of days, but know that your avocado will brown from oxidation.
More Avocado Favorites
Watch the video below where Rachel will walk you through every step of this recipe. Sometimes it helps to have a visual, and we’ve always got you covered with our cooking show. You can find the complete collection of recipes on YouTube, Facebook Watch, or our Facebook Page, or right here on our website with their corresponding recipes.
We have been doing this recipe for a starter for the 3rd year running for Christmas Lunch. Everyone just loves it
Haven’t made this yet, but will soon. Have water packed tuna on hand so will just add a little olive oil. It sounds yummy!!
Soooo love the South west stuffed avacodo, bit I did add 1/4 c chopped red onion 😉
So delicious! I added a bit of celery salt, perfect recipe for any time. Served on a bed of spinach and cherry tomatoes!
In Belize we have the big green avocados. They should be great with the tuna stuffing. Look forward to trying it.
I made this for the first time today and I was a little skeptical of it would taste good. OMGEEEEEEE they are delicious and healthy. I’m so glad I decided to make this for dinner and not just drink a protein shake!!
After being a WW for so many years, I never thought to use tuna in oil again! And dill? Oh ya!!
This lunch was just fabulous needed verbatim as instructed have to say I’ll be in this more often loved it
Does anyone know approximately how many calories half of this recipe is? Thanks.
I don’t publish caloric information because anything I’d use is run off of a calculator which is simply inaccurate since fruits and vegetables come in different sizes naturally. If you’d like to use one of these calculators yourself there are plenty where you simply copy and paste the recipe. I just can’t bring myself to publish inaccurate information or promote calorie counting.
I made these today and they were great – had one half along side a small salad. Even my Husband liked them. I went ahead and scooped out the entire avocado and put it in the mix and then stuffed the avocados. It was a little more green than the picture above but it was very yummy. Will definitely be making this again.