Tuna in Avocado Halves (Low Carb Tuna Salad)

Tuna in avocado halves is one of the easiest ways to turn a simple can of tuna into a healthy, satisfying meal. The creamy avocado serves as both the bowl and part of the filling, making this recipe feel a little special while requiring very little effort.

I've been creating low carb recipes since 2018, and this is one of my favorite quick lunches when I need something high in protein without turning on the stove. It's fresh, filling, and made with ingredients I usually have on hand.

You'll love this tuna avocado salad because it's naturally low carb, keto friendly, gluten-free, and packed with healthy fats and protein. It's an easy lunch option that comes together in just 15 minutes and works well for meal prep.

The combination of creamy avocado, flaky tuna, fresh dill, crunchy celery, and tangy Dijon mustard creates a bright, flavorful meal that's both refreshing and satisfying.

Things to Know

Before making this recipe, here are a few helpful things to know:

• The recipe takes about 15 minutes from start to finish.
• Each serving is naturally low carb, keto friendly, gluten-free, and dairy-free.
• Albacore tuna provides plenty of protein while keeping the recipe budget-friendly.
• Ripe avocados create the best texture and flavor.
• The filling can be made chunky or creamy depending on your preference.
• This recipe works as a light lunch, snack, or quick dinner.
• It's best served immediately after assembling to keep the avocado fresh.

If you enjoy healthy low carb lunches, be sure to try our Brussel Sprouts Salad (Low Carb), Italian Antipasto Salad, and Wilted Spinach Salad with Bacon.

Ingredients

This simple tuna stuffed avocado recipe uses fresh ingredients that create a balance of creaminess, crunch, and bright flavor.

Ingredient Notes

Avocados: Serve as both the base and part of the filling. Choose ripe avocados that yield slightly when gently pressed.

Albacore tuna: Adds lean protein and a mild flavor. Canned light tuna or canned salmon can be substituted.

Celery: Adds crunch and freshness. Finely diced cucumber can be used as an alternative.

Red onion: Provides a little bite and balances the creamy ingredients. Green onions or shallots work well too.

Fresh dill: Adds bright flavor that pairs perfectly with seafood. Dried dill can be substituted if needed (1 teaspoon of fresh dill is equivalent to ¼ teaspoon dried dill).

Mayonnaise: Adds creaminess and helps bind the filling together. Plain Greek yogurt can replace part of the mayo for a lighter option. If you use Greek yogurt we recommend going ½ mayo and ½ yogurt.

Dijon mustard: Brings tangy flavor and depth. Yellow mustard or stone-ground mustard are great substitutes.

Fresh lemon juice: Brightens the filling and helps balance the richness of the avocado.

Salt and pepper: Enhance all of the flavors and can be adjusted to taste.

Fresh herb garnish: Parsley, dill, or chives add color and freshness before serving.

How to Make Tuna Stuffed Avocado

This healthy lunch recipe comes together in just a few simple steps.

1. Prepare the avocados

Cut the avocados in half and remove the pits. Scoop out a small amount of the flesh, leaving a border around the edges. Dice the scooped avocado and place it in a mixing bowl.

2. Make the filling

Add the drained tuna, celery, red onion, dill, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to the bowl.

3. Mix

Stir until everything is combined. The mixture should be creamy but still have some texture from the tuna and vegetables.

4. Fill the avocados

Spoon the tuna mixture into each avocado half, mounding it slightly on top.

5. Garnish and serve

Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve immediately.

Expert Tips & Variations

• Choose ripe but firm avocados so they hold their shape.
• Drain the tuna thoroughly to prevent a watery filling.
• Add extra celery for more crunch.
• Swap part of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt to reduce fat and boost protein.
• Add diced pickles or relish for extra tangy flavor.
• Mix in chopped hard boiled eggs for even more protein.
• Add a pinch of paprika or cayenne pepper for heat.
• Use canned salmon instead of tuna for a different flavor profile.
• Squeeze extra lemon juice over the avocado to help slow browning.
• Serve the filling over greens if your avocados are too small for stuffing.
• This recipe can be doubled if you're serving a group, you can prep the tuna salad in advance, but don't cut the avocado until right before serving since they'll start to brown. You can also rub the cut avocados with a little lemon juice to help them stay fresher longer.

What to Serve With

This low carb tuna salad works well on its own or paired with other healthy Whole Lotta Yum favorites.

Serve it with:

• Greek Cucumber Salad
• Roasted Vegetables
• Bell Pepper Strips
• Cauliflower Chips
• Air Fryer Zucchini
• Low Carb Crackers

Storage & Meal Prep

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover tuna salad filling in an airtight container for up to 2 days.

Freezer Storage

This recipe is not freezer-friendly due to the avocado and mayonnaise.

Meal Prep Tips

For best results, prepare the tuna filling ahead of time and stuff the avocados just before serving. This helps prevent browning and keeps the texture fresh.

Recipe FAQ

Is tuna and avocado healthy?

Yes. Tuna provides lean protein while avocado adds healthy fats, fiber, and nutrients. Together they create a balanced, satisfying meal.

Is tuna in avocado halves keto friendly?

Yes. This recipe is naturally low carb and keto friendly since it contains protein-rich tuna and healthy fats from avocado.

Can I make tuna stuffed avocado ahead of time?

The tuna filling can be made ahead, but it's best to cut and fill the avocados just before serving.

What can I use instead of mayonnaise?

Plain Greek yogurt, mashed avocado, or olive oil can all be used in place of mayonnaise.

How do I keep avocado from turning brown?

A squeeze of lemon juice helps slow oxidation. For the freshest appearance, assemble the recipe shortly before serving.

This easy tuna stuffed avocado is a healthy lunch that's packed with protein, healthy fats, and fresh flavor. Whether you're looking for a quick meal, meal prep idea, or satisfying low carb lunch, this recipe checks all the boxes. If you make it, leave a rating, review, or comment below and let us know how you served it!

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• Creamy Egg Salad with Pickles
• Avocado Kale Salad (Low Carb Kale Salad)
• Cold Shrimp Salad (Low Carb Keto)
• Easy Keto Cobb Salad Recipe
• Easy Antipasto Salad (Keto Friendly Low Carb)
• Egg and Avocado Salad
• Keto Broccoli Salad (Low Carb, No Sugar)
• 25 Simple Low Carb Salads

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