Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados

Name: Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados
Prep time: 10 min
Total time: 10 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 2 ripe avocados; 1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained; 2 tbsp mayonnaise; 1 tbsp lemon juice; 1/4 cup diced red onion; 1/4 cup diced cucumber; 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: World Flavor Stories

I absolutely love creating quick and healthy meals, and these Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados are one of my favorites. Combining protein-packed tuna with creamy avocado and vibrant Mediterranean flavors creates a dish that's not only satisfying but also incredibly nutritious. Whether I’m looking for a light lunch or a delicious appetizer for guests, this recipe is my go-to. Plus, it's so easy to make and comes together in just a few minutes—perfect for busy days or last-minute gatherings!

Created by

Daisy Webb

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:44:35.920Z

I remember the first time I prepared these Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados for a picnic. The combination of creamy avocado, zesty lemon, and salty olives instantly elevated the dish, and it was a hit with my friends. They were impressed by the flavors, and I loved knowing it was both healthy and filling.

One tip I’ve learned is to use good quality canned tuna; it really makes a difference in taste. You can also customize the filling to your liking—adding in a handful of capers or some chopped roasted red peppers takes it to another level of deliciousness!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy avocado paired with flavorful tuna filling
Fresh ingredients come together in a delightful blend
Perfectly suited for a healthy meal or a quick snack

Ingredient Highlights

The star of this dish, avocado, not only adds a creamy texture but also provides healthy fats that can help you feel fuller longer. This dish leverages the ripe, buttery flesh of avocados, which should ideally be slightly firm to the touch yet yield gently when squeezed. Be sure to check for any dark spots, as those could indicate over-ripeness. If you only have unripe avocados, you can speed up the ripening process by placing them in a paper bag with an apple or banana for a day or two.

Tuna, another key component, is rich in protein and omega-3 fatty acids, making this dish a nutritional powerhouse. For this recipe, I recommend using canned tuna packed in water to keep the filling lighter. However, feel free to swap in tuna packed in olive oil if you prefer a richer flavor. Just drain the oil well before mixing it with the other ingredients to prevent the filling from becoming too greasy.

Serving and Storage Tips

This Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados recipe is best enjoyed fresh, but if you're looking to prepare it ahead of time, consider storing the tuna filling separately from the avocados. The avocados can oxidize quickly, turning brown even in the refrigerator. To minimize browning, you might brush the cut edges of the avocado with lemon juice—this adds a bit more flavor as well! If making for a gathering, prepare the filling in advance and stuff the avocados right before serving to maintain that beautiful green color.

For a fun serving variation, consider pairing these stuffed avocados with pita bread or crisp lettuce wraps. This not only adds a nice crunch but also makes it a great finger-food option for parties. You can also play around with the garnish: crumbled feta and a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the flavors even further, taking the Mediterranean vibes to the next level!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for a delightful meal:

Ingredients

2 ripe avocados
1 can (5 oz) tuna, drained
2 tbsp mayonnaise
1 tbsp lemon juice
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup diced cucumber
1/4 cup Kalamata olives, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley for garnish

Once you have your ingredients ready, you can start preparing your meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Mediterranean Tuna Stuffed Avocados:

Prepare the Avocados

Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit. Use a spoon to scoop out a little of the flesh to create more space for the tuna filling. Set aside the scooped avocado flesh in a bowl.

Make the Tuna Filling

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, lemon juice, diced red onion, diced cucumber, chopped olives, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed.

Stuff the Avocados

Spoon the tuna mixture generously into each avocado half. Use the reserved avocado flesh to create a creamy texture within the filling or enjoy it separately.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle fresh parsley over the stuffed avocados as a garnish, then serve immediately and enjoy your Mediterranean-inspired dish!

Enjoy your healthy Mediterranean meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tuna mixture.

Variations to Try

While the classic version of this dish is delightful, there are numerous variations you'll want to try! For a different protein boost, consider substituting the tuna with chickpeas or shredded cooked chicken for a more plant-based or alternative protein option. If you opt for chickpeas, mash them slightly before mixing with the other ingredients for a similar texture to tuna. This not only accommodates dietary restrictions but also introduces new flavors and textures that maintain the integrity of this Mediterranean dish.

Another fun twist is to add fruits such as diced apples or pears into the tuna mixture for a refreshing sweetness, which balances the creaminess of the avocado beautifully. Just be mindful of the texture, as too much moisture from fruits can make the filling runny. Aim for a balance where the flavors complement each other, keeping it refreshing and not overly sweet.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find the filling too dry or bland, consider adding a dash more mayonnaise or a touch of Greek yogurt for added creaminess and tang. Mixing in a teaspoon of Dijon mustard can also enhance the flavor profile, giving it a nice zing without overpowering the existing ingredients. Likewise, ensure you season adequately with salt and pepper, as they are crucial in bringing out the natural flavors of the tuna and vegetables.

If you're new to working with avocados and find yourself with an under-ripe one, there's a quick tip: If you gently wrap an unripe avocado in aluminum foil and bake it at 200°F (93°C) for 10-15 minutes, it can soften slightly. However, this is not a perfect substitute for the flavor and texture of naturally ripened avocados, so use it as a last resort or for an emergency fix.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Absolutely! Just cook the fresh tuna to your liking and then flake it for the filling.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Are there any substitutes for mayonnaise?

Yes! You can use Greek yogurt or avocado in place of mayonnaise for a healthier alternative.

→ Can I make these ahead of time?

While you can prepare the filling ahead of time, it's best to stuff the avocados just before serving to prevent browning.