This Keto Tuna Avocado Salad is the perfect choice if you’re following a ketogenic diet or simply looking for a healthy, low-carb meal that’s packed with flavor. This recipe combines the rich, creamy texture of ripe avocados with the savory, protein-packed goodness of tuna.

The result is a satisfying dish that’s both nutritious and delicious. Prepare a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a meal-prep option for the week with this salad. It’s versatile, easy to make, and keto-friendly. This article will walk you through the recipe step-by-step, provide nutritional information, and share tips for customizing it to your taste.

Why You’ll Love This Keto Tuna Avocado Salad

The ketogenic diet emphasizes high-fat, low-carb foods to keep your body in ketosis, and this tuna avocado salad fits the bill perfectly. Avocados are a keto staple, offering healthy monounsaturated fats, fiber, and essential nutrients like potassium and vitamin E. Tuna, on the other hand, is a lean source of protein that adds satiety without spiking your carb count.

Ingredients for Keto Tuna Avocado Salad

To make this salad for two servings, you’ll need the following ingredients:

2 cans of tuna (5 oz each, packed in water or olive oil, drained): Choose high-quality tuna for the best flavor. Albacore or skipjack work well.

2 ripe avocados: Look for avocados that are slightly soft to the touch but not mushy.

1/4 cup mayonnaise (keto-friendly): Opt for a brand with no added sugars, or make your own with avocado oil.

1 tbsp fresh lemon juice: Adds brightness and prevents avocado oxidation.

1/4 cup diced red onion: Provides a mild crunch and subtle sweetness.

1/4 cup diced celery: Adds texture and a refreshing bite.

2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley: For a burst of freshness and color.

1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Adds a little sharpness to the flavor.

1/2 tsp garlic powder: For a savory depth.

Salt and black pepper to taste: Adjust to your preference.

Optional add-ins: Chopped dill pickles, cucumber, or a pinch of cayenne pepper for a spicy twist.

Equipment Needed

Medium mixing bowl

Fork or spoon for mashing

Sharp knife and cutting board

Measuring cups and spoons

Step-by-Step Instructions for Keto Tuna Avocado Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Avocados

Scoop the flesh from the avocados into a medium mixing bowl after halving them and removing the pits.

Add the fresh lemon juice to the avocado and mash with a fork until smooth but slightly chunky. Lemon juice adds and prevents the avocado from browning.

Step 2: Drain and Flake the Tuna

Open the cans of tuna and drain thoroughly. If using tuna packed in olive oil, you can reserve a teaspoon of the oil for extra flavor.

Add the drained tuna to the bowl with the mashed avocado and use a fork to achieve level distribution.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings

Add the diced red onion, celery, and chopped parsley for crunch and freshness.

Combine mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.

Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle in a pinch of cayenne pepper or add chopped dill pickles for a tangy crunch.

Step 4: Serve or Store

Serve immediately as a standalone salad, wrapped in lettuce leaves, or stuffed into a halved avocado for a beautiful presentation.

If preparing for later, store the salad in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. To prevent browning, apply plastic wrap immediately to the salad’s surface before sealing the container.

Serving Suggestions

This keto tuna avocado salad is adaptable. You can enjoy the following ways:

1. Lettuce Wraps: Serve the salad in large romaine or butter lettuce leaves for a low-carb option.

2. Avocado Boats: Stuff the mixture back into avocado halves for an elegant, nutrient-packed meal.

3. Cucumber Slices: Use the salad as a topping for sliced cucumbers for a refreshing appetizer.

Keto Tuna Avocado Salad recipe: A Creamy, Low-Carb Delight

Recipe by abdinhalaCourse: Recipes, Side dishes, Avocado recipes, Tuna saladCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy

Servings

servings

Prep time

minutes

Cooking timeminutes

Calories

3350

kcal

This satisfying dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. It has creamy avocados, protein-packed tuna, and a burst of fresh flavors.

Ingredients

2 cans of tuna (5 oz each, packed in water or olive oil, drained)
2 ripe avocados
1/4 cup keto-friendly mayonnaise
1 tbsp fresh lemon juice
1/4 cup diced red onion
1/4 cup diced celery
2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
1 tsp Dijon mustard
1/2 tsp garlic powder
Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional: chopped dill pickles, cucumber, or a pinch of cayenne pepper

Directions

Prepare the Avocados: Cut avocados in half, remove pits, and scoop flesh into a medium bowl. Add lemon juice and mash with a fork until smooth but slightly chunky.
Drain and Flake the Tuna: Drain the tuna and add it to the bowl with the avocado. Flake it apart with a fork.
Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Stir in red onion, celery, parsley, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Serve or Store: Serve immediately in a bowl, lettuce wraps, or stuffed into avocado halves. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

Nutritional information about keto tuna avocado salad

for a single serving (half of the recipe):

Calories: ~350 kcal

total fat: 28 ( from avocado and mayonnaise)

saturated fat: 4g

Net carbs: 3g (total carbs~7g, fiber~4g)

Protein: 20g

Key Micronutrients:

Potassium: ~500mg (from avocados)

Vitamin C: ~10mg (from lemon juice and parsley)

Omega-3s: Varies based on tuna type (higher if packed in olive oil)

This nutritional profile makes the salad an excellent choice for keto dieters, as it’s high in healthy fats, moderate in protein, and very low in carbs. Always double-check ingredient labels (especially for mayonnaise) to ensure they’re keto-compliant.

Tips for Making the Perfect Keto Tuna Avocado Salad

Choose Ripe Avocados: The avocados should yield slightly when pressed but not feel overly soft. If they’re too firm, let them ripen at room temperature for 1-2 days.

Quality Tuna Matters: Opt for sustainably sourced tuna packed in olive oil for added healthy fats, or water-packed for a lighter option.

Customize the Texture: For a creamier salad, mash the avocado completely. Keep some avocado pieces whole for a chunkier texture.

Add Crunch: If you enjoy more texture, consider adding chopped walnuts, sunflower seeds, or sliced radishes (all keto-friendly).

Make It Spicy: For a kick, mix in a dash of hot sauce, chili flakes, or diced jalapeños.

Variations on Keto Tuna Avocado Salad

This recipe is highly adaptable to suit different tastes or dietary needs:

Mediterranean-Inspired: Add chopped kalamata olives, capers, and a sprinkle of feta cheese (if you’re not strictly monitoring dairy).
Spicy Southwest: Mix in diced jalapeños, a pinch of cumin, and some chopped cilantro for a Tex-Mex flair.
Creamy Dill: Swap parsley for fresh dill and add a tablespoon of sour cream for an extra creamy, tangy twist.
Tuna Avocado Boats with Bacon: Sprinkle crispy bacon bits on top for a smoky, indulgent touch.
Egg-Enhanced: Fold in a chopped hard-boiled egg for extra protein and richness.

Frequently Asked Questions about Keto avocado tuna salad

Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Sear or grill a fresh tuna steak, let it cool, and flake it into the salad. Ensure it’s fully cooked to avoid food safety issues.

Is this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, as long as you use dairy-free mayonnaise. Check labels to confirm, as some brands may include dairy-based ingredients.

How can I make this egg-free?

If you’re avoiding eggs (common in mayonnaise), substitute with an egg-free or vegan mayo. Avocado oil-based mayonnaise is an excellent keto-friendly choice.

Can I add other vegetables?

Stick to low-carb options like cucumber, zucchini, or bell peppers. Avoid high-carb veggies like corn or carrots to keep it keto.

How can I determine whether my avocado is ripe?

A ripe avocado will feel slightly soft when gently squeezed and have dark green to black skin. If the stem comes off easily and reveals green flesh, it’s ready.

Conclusion

This Keto Tuna Avocado Salad is a must-try for anyone looking for a quick, healthy, and delicious low-carb meal. This satisfying dish is perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep. It has creamy avocados, protein-packed tuna, and a burst of fresh flavors. The recipe is easy to customize, making it a versatile addition to your keto repertoire. It’s the perfect choice for busy days when you need something nutritious and flavorful, with minimal prep time and no cooking required.

Keto Tuna Avocado Salad recipe: A Creamy, Low-Carb Delight

Why You’ll Love This Keto Tuna Avocado Salad