Tuna Avocado Boats

by
Jump to Recipe Print Recipe

Tuna avocado boats are one of those recipes that feel almost too simple to be this good. Creamy avocado halves filled with a flavorful tuna mixture create a meal that’s light, satisfying, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re looking for a quick lunch, a low-carb dinner, or a protein-rich snack, this dish delivers without requiring much time or effort.

What makes tuna avocado boats especially appealing is how naturally balanced they are. Healthy fats from ripe avocados pair beautifully with lean protein from tuna, while simple seasonings and fresh add-ins bring everything together. It’s the kind of recipe you can make once and then adapt endlessly based on what you have on hand.

 

Why Tuna Avocado Boats Are So Popular

This recipe has become a staple for busy home cooks and health-focused eaters alike, and for good reason:

  • Naturally gluten-free and low in carbohydrates

  • High in protein and healthy fats

  • Requires no cooking

  • Ready in minutes

  • Easy to customize with different flavors

It’s also visually appealing, which makes it great for serving guests or enjoying as a refreshing meal on warm days.

Equipment

You only need a few basic kitchen tools:

  • Sharp knife

  • Cutting board

  • Medium mixing bowl

  • Fork or spoon

  • Citrus juicer (optional)

Ingredients List

For the Tuna Filling

  • 1 can tuna (in water or olive oil), drained

  • 1–2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or mayonnaise

  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice

  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion or shallot

  • 1 tablespoon chopped celery (optional, for crunch)

  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

For the Boats

  • 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted

Optional Add-Ins

  • Chopped fresh herbs (dill, parsley, or cilantro)

  • Dijon mustard

  • Capers or chopped pickles

  • Cherry tomatoes, finely chopped

  • Chili flakes or hot sauce

Timing & Servings

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes

  • Cook Time: 0 minutes

  • Total Time: 10 minutes

  • Servings: 2 (4 avocado boats)

How to Make Tuna Avocado Boats

Step 1. Prepare the Tuna Mixture

In a medium bowl, add the drained tuna and gently flake it with a fork. Stir in Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, citrus juice, red onion, and celery if using. Season with salt and pepper.

Mix until the tuna is creamy but still has some texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.

Prepare the Tuna Mixture

Step 2. Prepare the Avocados

Slice avocados in half lengthwise and remove the pits. If the pit cavity is small, scoop out a little extra flesh to create more room for the filling. You can mash the scooped avocado and mix it into the tuna for extra creaminess.

Brush the avocado flesh lightly with lemon or lime juice to prevent browning.

Prepare the Avocados

Step 3. Assemble the Boats

Spoon the tuna mixture generously into each avocado half. Smooth the top slightly or leave it rustic—it’s entirely up to you.

Finish with fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Assemble the Boats

Step 4. Serve Immediately

Tuna avocado boats are best enjoyed fresh while the avocados are vibrant and creamy.

Serve Immediately

 

Tips for the Best Tuna Avocado Boats

  • Use ripe but firm avocados so they hold their shape

  • Drain tuna well to avoid a watery filling

  • Balance acidity with creaminess—citrus is key

  • Season lightly and taste as you go

  • Chop add-ins finely for even texture

Flavor Variations to Try

Mediterranean Style

Add chopped olives, cucumber, parsley, and a squeeze of lemon.

Spicy Tuna Boats

Mix in sriracha or chili crisp and top with sesame seeds.

Classic Deli-Style

Use mayonnaise, celery, onion, and a touch of mustard.

Dairy-Free Version

Skip yogurt and use olive oil or mashed avocado instead.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

  • Best eaten immediately

  • Tuna mixture can be made up to 24 hours ahead and refrigerated

  • Cut avocados just before serving

  • Store leftover tuna filling in an airtight container

Serving Suggestions

Tuna avocado boats work well on their own or paired with light sides:

  • Mixed green salad

  • Fresh fruit

  • Whole-grain crackers or toast

  • Cucumber or carrot sticks

They also make an excellent appetizer when served in smaller avocado halves or scooped into lettuce cups.

Nutritional Facts (Per Serving, Approximate)

  • Calories: 350–420

  • Protein: 25–30g

  • Fat: 25–30g

  • Carbohydrates: 10–14g

  • Fiber: 7–9g

  • Sugar: 1–2g

Values vary depending on tuna type and dressing used.

If you’re looking for lunch inspiration, try Lentil Curry with Coconut Milk, Caprese Sandwich, or Chicken Avocado Wrap.

Tuna Avocado Boats

These tuna avocado boats feature ripe avocados filled with a flavorful tuna mixture, creating a balanced, satisfying meal that’s quick, healthy, and easy to customize.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Total Time 10 minutes
Servings: 4 people
Course: Lunch
Cuisine: American
Calories: 350
Ingredients Equipment Method

Ingredients
  

For the Tuna Filling
  • 1 can tuna in water or olive oil, drained
  • 1 –2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon or lime juice
  • 1 tablespoon finely chopped red onion or shallot
  • 1 tablespoon chopped celery optional, for crunch
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
For the Boats
  • 2 ripe avocados halved and pitted
Optional Add-Ins
  • Chopped fresh herbs dill, parsley, or cilantro
  • Dijon mustard
  • Capers or chopped pickles
  • Cherry tomatoes finely chopped
  • Chili flakes or hot sauce

Equipment

  • Sharp knife
  • Cutting board
  • Medium mixing bowl
  • Fork or spoon
  • Citrus juicer (optional)

Method
 

Prepare the Tuna Mixture
  1. In a medium bowl, add the drained tuna and gently flake it with a fork. Stir in Greek yogurt or mayonnaise, citrus juice, red onion, and celery if using. Season with salt and pepper.
  2. Mix until the tuna is creamy but still has some texture. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Prepare the Avocados
  1. Slice avocados in half lengthwise and remove the pits. If the pit cavity is small, scoop out a little extra flesh to create more room for the filling. You can mash the scooped avocado and mix it into the tuna for extra creaminess.
  2. Brush the avocado flesh lightly with lemon or lime juice to prevent browning.
Assemble the Boats
  1. Spoon the tuna mixture generously into each avocado half. Smooth the top slightly or leave it rustic—it’s entirely up to you.
  2. Finish with fresh herbs, cracked black pepper, or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.
Serve Immediately
  1. Tuna avocado boats are best enjoyed fresh while the avocados are vibrant and creamy.

Conclusion

Tuna avocado boats are a simple yet satisfying way to enjoy a nutritious meal without turning on the stove. They’re fresh, filling, and adaptable enough to suit a wide range of tastes and dietary needs. Whether you’re making them for lunch, a light dinner, or a quick snack, this recipe proves that healthy food can be both easy and genuinely enjoyable.

Once you try them, they’re likely to become a regular part of your meal rotation.

FAQs

1. Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna?

Yes, canned salmon works very well and offers a slightly richer flavor.

2. How do I keep avocados from browning?

Brush the flesh with lemon or lime juice and serve immediately.

3. Are tuna avocado boats good for meal prep?

Prepare the tuna mixture ahead, but assemble just before eating.

4. Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Absolutely—use olive oil or mashed avocado instead of yogurt.

5. What tuna is best for this recipe?

Solid white albacore or chunk light tuna both work well.

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating