Save There's something wonderfully satisfying about a meal that's as simple to prepare as it is delightful to eat. These Tuna Avocado Cucumber Boats perfectly exemplify that balance. In just 10 minutes, you can create a refreshing, nutritious dish that's packed with protein and healthy fats, yet light enough to leave you feeling energized rather than sluggish after lunch.
Save The contrast between the cool, crisp cucumber and the creamy avocado-tuna filling creates a textural symphony that makes these boats incredibly satisfying. The zesty dressing with lemon and Dijon brightens the flavor profile, making each bite both refreshing and comforting. Best of all, this dish requires zero cooking, making it perfect for hot summer days when the last thing you want is to turn on the stove.
Ingredients
- 2 large cucumbers
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- 1 (5 oz / 140 g) can tuna in water, drained
- 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the cucumber boats
- Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to gently scrape out the seeds, creating boats.
- Make the filling
- In a bowl, combine the diced avocado, drained tuna, red onion, and parsley or cilantro.
- Prepare the dressing
- In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
- Combine
- Pour the dressing over the tuna-avocado mixture and mix gently until well combined.
- Fill the boats
- Spoon the filling evenly into the cucumber boats.
- Serve
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, make sure to drain the canned tuna thoroughly. Excess liquid can make your filling watery. When scooping out the cucumber seeds, don't dig too deeply – you want a sturdy boat that can hold your filling without breaking. Choose avocados that yield slightly to gentle pressure for the perfect creamy consistency.
Varianten und Anpassungen
This versatile recipe welcomes many variations. Swap the tuna for cooked shredded chicken or chickpeas for a vegetarian option. For extra crunch and color, add diced bell peppers or cherry tomatoes to the filling. If you enjoy heat, mix in a few drops of hot sauce or some diced jalapeño. For a Mediterranean twist, add some chopped olives and use fresh dill instead of parsley.
Serviervorschläge
These cucumber boats make an elegant appetizer for gatherings when arranged on a platter with lemon wedges and extra herbs for garnish. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a light soup or a simple green salad. They're best enjoyed chilled, making them perfect for meal prep – just store the cucumber boats and filling separately until ready to serve.
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These Tuna Avocado Cucumber Boats represent the perfect balance of nutrition, flavor, and convenience. Whether you're following a specific eating plan or simply looking for a light yet satisfying meal option, this recipe delivers on all fronts. With just a handful of fresh ingredients and a few minutes of your time, you can create a dish that looks as impressive as it tastes. It's proof that healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming to be thoroughly enjoyable.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I make these ahead for meal prep?
Yes, these boats meal prep beautifully. Prepare the filling and store it separately from the hollowed cucumbers. Assemble just before serving to keep the cucumbers crisp. They'll stay fresh in the refrigerator for 2-3 days.
- → What can I substitute for canned tuna?
Try cooked shredded chicken breast, chickpeas for a vegetarian version, or flaked cooked salmon. Crab meat also works wonderfully and adds a delicate sweetness that complements the avocado.
- → How do I prevent the avocado from browning?
The lemon juice in the dressing helps slow oxidation. Toss the diced avocado in a little extra lemon juice before combining with other ingredients. If storing the filling separately, press plastic wrap directly onto the surface to minimize air exposure.
- → Are these cucumber boats keto-friendly?
Absolutely. With only 10 grams of carbohydrates per serving and healthy fats from avocado and olive oil, these fit perfectly into a ketogenic diet. The protein from tuna makes them satisfying without heavy carbs.
- → Can I add other vegetables to the filling?
Diced tomatoes, bell peppers, or finely diced celery add wonderful crunch and flavor. Finely chopped jalapeños bring heat, while corn kernels or black beans introduce sweetness and texture.
- → What's the best way to hollow out the cucumbers?
Cut cucumbers in half lengthwise, then use a regular spoon to gently scrape out the seeds. Leave a thin layer of flesh to create sturdy boats that hold the filling without breaking. A melon baller also works perfectly for this task.