Avocado Tuna Salad Stack

This vibrant and elegant avocado tuna salad stack is a fresh, no-cook meal layered with creamy avocado, savory tuna salad, and bright tomato salsa. Bursting with color, nutrients, and bold flavors, it’s a healthy yet satisfying dish perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner. With its simple preparation and beautiful presentation, it’s a wholesome option that looks as good as it tastes.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish combines the creamy richness of avocado with the zesty, protein-packed goodness of tuna and the refreshing acidity of a tomato and herb salsa. It’s light yet filling, low-carb, gluten-free, and requires no cooking—perfect for busy days or warm weather. With just 10 minutes of prep, it’s a meal you can feel good about making and even better about eating.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 ripe avocado, diced
• 1 tablespoon lime juice
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 (5 oz) can tuna in water, drained
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
• 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons diced onion
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh basil or cilantro
• Salt to taste

Directions

1. In a small bowl, toss the diced avocado with lime juice, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
2. In another bowl, combine the drained tuna with mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, Dijon mustard, chopped herbs, salt, and pepper. Mix until creamy.
3. In a third bowl, stir together the diced tomatoes, onion, and fresh basil or cilantro. Season lightly with salt.
4. Using a food mold or ring placed on a serving plate, layer the avocado mixture on the bottom. Gently press down.
5. Add the tuna salad layer and lightly press to create an even layer.
6. Top with the tomato salsa, smoothing out the top gently.
7. Carefully lift the mold to reveal the stacked salad.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with lime wedges or on a bed of greens for added freshness.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 2 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 0 minutes
Total time: 10 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the tuna mixture.
• Egg-Free Option: Replace mayonnaise with mashed avocado or hummus for a creamy, egg-free alternative.
• Mediterranean Style: Swap the salsa for chopped cucumber, olives, and feta for a Mediterranean twist.
• Tuna Substitute: Use canned salmon or grilled shrimp as an alternative to tuna.
• Additional Crunch: Add diced cucumber or celery to the tuna mixture for extra texture.

Storage/Reheating

This dish is best enjoyed immediately after assembly to maintain the freshness and appearance.
If making in advance, store each component separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 1 day.
Do not freeze. Reheating is not necessary or recommended, as this is a chilled dish.

FAQs

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, but store the components separately and assemble just before serving to keep the layers fresh and vibrant.

What type of tuna is best for this salad?

Canned tuna in water is ideal for a lighter taste, but tuna in oil can be used for a richer flavor.

Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, simply use a dairy-free mayonnaise or avocado in place of yogurt.

What can I use if I don’t have a ring mold?

You can use a cleaned food can (top and bottom removed), a small bowl, or build it free-form for a rustic look.

Can I use cherry tomatoes instead?

Yes, cherry or grape tomatoes work well. Just chop them into small pieces.

How do I keep the avocado from browning?

Tossing the avocado with lime juice, as in the recipe, helps prevent oxidation and browning.

Is this recipe low-carb?

Yes, it’s naturally low in carbohydrates and high in healthy fats and protein.

Can I add lettuce or greens?

Absolutely. Serve the stack on a bed of arugula, spinach, or mixed greens for a more complete meal.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, all ingredients are naturally gluten-free.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, this recipe is easy to scale up. Simply double the ingredients and assemble individual stacks or make one large layered salad.

Conclusion

Avocado tuna salad stack is a beautiful, healthy, and satisfying meal that’s as quick to prepare as it is impressive to serve. Packed with protein, fresh produce, and healthy fats, it’s ideal for anyone seeking a clean, flavorful meal without the fuss. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving guests, this layered salad is sure to become a favorite.

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