Ready in: 15 minutes · Serves: 2 · Technique: Mixing · Storage: Airtight container in the fridge for up to two days.
Quick Answer
Delight in a creamy and crunchy Tuna Salad Sandwich with Avocado, perfect for busy holiday moments.
As the vibrant leaves begin to fall here in New York City and the anticipation of Thanksgiving and Christmas fills the air, I find myself craving comfort food that’s not just delicious but also quick to whip up. This Tuna Salad Sandwich with Avocado checks all those boxes, making it an excellent choice for busy holiday preparations or casual lunch breaks during bustling day-to-day life.
A Perfect Lunch Option
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy days.
- Combines nutritious ingredients for a healthy meal option.
- Rich and creamy flavor thanks to the avocado.
- Versatile—great for lunch, dinner, or picnics.
- Customizable with your favorite add-ins and seasonings.
Ingredients
This Tuna Salad Sandwich with Avocado uses simple and wholesome ingredients.
Tuna Salad
- 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained
- 1 ripe avocado, mashed
- 2 tablespoons Greek yogurt or mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 1/4 red onion, finely chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh dill or parsley (optional)
- Whole-grain bread or your favorite sandwich bread
- Lettuce or spinach for serving
How to Make Tuna Salad Sandwich with Avocado (Step-by-Step)
This sandwich is not only tasty but also simple to prepare.
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna
Start by opening a can of high-quality tuna packed in water. Using a fork, flake the tuna in a medium mixing bowl until it’s nice and flaky. Ensure it’s broken down well for seamless mixing with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Mash the Avocado
In a separate bowl, add a ripe avocado. Mash it with a fork until smooth, leaving a few small chunks for texture. The vibrant green color adds a layer of richness to your sandwich.
Step 3: Mix it Up
To the tuna, add the mashed avocado, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until all ingredients are well combined for a chunky yet cohesive mixture.
Step 4: Add Crunch
Fold in the finely chopped celery and red onion. These components provide a satisfying crunch and subtle sweetness, creating a delightful contrast to the creaminess of the avocado.
Step 5: Season
Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste. For extra flavor, chop fresh dill or parsley and mix it in for a hint of freshness.
Step 6: Assemble the Sandwich
On a slice of whole-grain bread, layer the tuna salad generously. Top with crisp lettuce or fresh spinach, and finish with another slice of bread. Slice diagonally to reveal the beautifully mixed filling.
Step 7: Serve
Plate your sandwich alongside some raw veggies or chips, and enjoy this delectable meal!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Using overcooked tuna; drain well but don’t squeeze excessively.
- Adding too much liquid; start with small amounts of mayo or yogurt.
- Neglecting seasoning; salt and pepper enhance the flavor profile significantly.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Toast the bread for a nice crunch that contrasts the creamy filling.
- Experiment with colorful vegetables like diced bell peppers or shredded carrots.
- Store prepped tuna salad in an airtight container; consume within a day or two to avoid avocado browning.
Variations
- Swap Greek yogurt for sour cream or another creamy alternative.
- Add diced pickles for extra tanginess.
- Use different bread types, such as ciabatta or sourdough.
- Try adding spices like cayenne pepper for a kick.
How to Serve
- Pair with raw veggies or chips for a crunchy side.
- Serve with a side salad for a light and refreshing meal.
- Wrap the tuna salad in lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.
- Cut the sandwich into bite-sized pieces for easy sharing at gatherings.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: You can prepare the tuna salad ahead of time, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days.
- Reheating: Not applicable; the salad is served cold.
- Freezing: Not recommended due to the avocado’s texture when thawed.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
Through my testing, I discovered that the right balance of creaminess and crunch is essential to elevate a simple tuna salad. Incorporating avocado not only adds a healthy twist but also amplifies the flavor and texture in a way that’s truly delightful.
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 2 servings · Serving Size: 1 sandwich
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~350 calories · 15g protein · 30g carbs · 20g fat
Creamy Tuna Salad Sandwich with Avocado
Ingredients
Method
- Start by opening a can of high-quality tuna packed in water. Using a fork, flake the tuna in a medium mixing bowl until it’s nice and flaky.
- In a separate bowl, add a ripe avocado. Mash it with a fork until smooth, leaving a few small chunks for texture.
- To the tuna, add the mashed avocado, Greek yogurt (or mayonnaise), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Stir until all ingredients are well combined for a chunky yet cohesive mixture.
- Fold in the finely chopped celery and red onion. Sprinkle in salt and pepper to taste.
- On a slice of bread, layer the tuna salad generously. Top with crisp lettuce or fresh spinach, and finish with another slice of bread. Slice diagonally to serve.
- Plate your sandwich alongside some raw veggies or chips, and enjoy!
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use canned tuna in oil instead of water?
Yes, you can use canned tuna in oil for a richer flavor, but be sure to adjust the amount of Greek yogurt or mayonnaise accordingly to avoid a greasy mixture.
2. How long can I store the tuna salad with avocado?
This tuna salad is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to two days. Note that the avocado may brown slightly over time.
3. Can I make this sandwich gluten-free?
Absolutely! Simply use gluten-free bread or lettuce wraps instead of traditional bread to keep it gluten-free.
4. What can I substitute for Greek yogurt?
If you prefer not to use Greek yogurt, mayonnaise is a great substitute. You could also try sour cream for a similar tangy flavor.
5. How can I make my tuna salad spicier?
To add a kick to your tuna salad, consider mixing in a small amount of hot sauce, diced jalapeños, or chillies, based on your spice preference.
