This Ina Garten Tuna Avocado Salad Recipe is a fresh and protein-packed recipe, which includes tuna in olive oil and ripe avocado. It’s a healthy twist on the classic, ready in just 10 minutes.
Jump to RecipeIna Garten Tuna Avocado Salad Ingredients
Salad
- 1 (5 to 7 oz) can of high-quality tuna packed in olive oil, drained
- 1 ripe avocado, diced
- ½ English cucumber, diced
- ¼ cup red onion, finely diced
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
- Optional: 1 tablespoon capers, drained
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Dressing
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1½ tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
- 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

How To Make Ina Garten Tuna Avocado Salad
- Make the dressing: In a small bowl or jar, whisk together Dijon mustard, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Combine salad ingredients: In a medium bowl, gently combine tuna, avocado, cucumber, red onion, parsley, and capers (if using).
- Dress the salad: Drizzle the dressing over the tuna mixture. Toss gently to coat without breaking up the avocado.
- Taste and serve: Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve immediately or chill for 10–15 minutes before serving.
Recipe Tips
-
What tuna works best?
Tuna packed in olive oil offers the best flavor and texture. -
How to keep avocado from browning:
Add the lemon juice right away and gently coat all pieces. -
Can I make this ahead?
Best served fresh, but you can prep the dressing and chop the veggies in advance. -
What to add for extra flavor:
Try chopped dill, a pinch of red pepper flakes, or a spoon of Greek yogurt for creaminess. -
How to serve it:
Serve over mixed greens, in lettuce wraps, or with whole grain toast.

What To Serve With Tuna Avocado Salad
This refreshing salad goes well with:
- Whole grain crackers or pita chips
- A cup of chilled gazpacho or soup
- Quinoa or couscous on the side
- A glass of crisp white wine or iced tea
How To Store Tuna Avocado Salad
Refrigerate:
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 1 day. The avocado may brown slightly but will still taste good.
Do not freeze:
Freezing is not recommended due to the texture of the avocado.
Tuna Avocado Salad Nutrition Facts
- Calories: 320
- Protein: 20g
- Fat: 24g
- Carbohydrates: 8g
- Fiber: 5g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 480mg
Nutrition information is estimated and may vary based on ingredients and portion sizes.
FAQs
Can I use water-packed tuna instead?
Yes, but it may be less rich and flavorful. Add a splash of olive oil to compensate.
What if I don’t like capers?
You can skip them or substitute with chopped pickles or olives.
Is this salad keto-friendly?
Yes, it’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.
How do I make this dairy-free and gluten-free?
The recipe is naturally dairy-free and gluten-free as written.
Can I use canned salmon instead of tuna?
Yes, it’s a great alternative and works well with the same dressing.
Try More Recipes:
- Ina Garten’s French Potato Salad Recipe
- Ina Garten Roasted Carrot Salad Recipe
- Barefoot Contessa Fresh Corn Salad Recipe
Ina Garten Tuna Avocado Salad Recipe
Course: SaladsCuisine: AmericanDifficulty: Easy2
servings10
minutes320
kcalA quick, protein-packed salad with tuna, avocado, cucumber, and lemon-Dijon vinaigrette—fresh, healthy, and full of flavor.
Ingredients
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1 (5–7 oz) can tuna in olive oil, drained
-
1 ripe avocado, diced
-
½ English cucumber, diced
-
¼ cup red onion, finely diced
-
2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
-
1 tbsp capers (optional)
-
Salt and pepper, to taste
- Dressing:
-
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
-
1½ tbsp lemon juice
-
3 tbsp olive oil
-
½ tsp kosher salt
-
¼ tsp black pepper
Directions
- Whisk dressing ingredients until emulsified.
- Gently mix tuna, avocado, cucumber, onion, parsley, and capers.
- Drizzle dressing and toss gently.
- Adjust seasoning and serve immediately or chill briefly.
