Tuna Avocado Cucumber Boats

These Tuna Avocado Cucumber Boats are a delightful combination of fresh, crisp cucumbers and creamy, protein-packed filling. Perfect for a light lunch or healthy snack, these boats offer a satisfying crunch with every bite while keeping your meal low-carb and nutritious. The bright flavors of lemon, herbs, and Dijon mustard complement the richness of avocado and tuna, creating a balanced dish that's as pleasing to the palate as it is to the eye.

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The beauty of these cucumber boats lies in their simplicity. With minimal prep work and zero cooking time, you can create an elegant, nutritious meal that looks as though it took much more effort than it actually did. The combination of cool cucumber with the creamy, zesty filling makes these boats particularly refreshing on warm days when you want something light yet satisfying.

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

Step 1: Prepare the cucumber boats

Slice the cucumbers in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to gently scrape out the seeds, creating boats.

Step 2: Mix the filling

In a bowl, combine the diced avocado, drained tuna, red onion, and parsley or cilantro.

Step 3: Make the dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together the lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.

Step 4: Combine

Pour the dressing over the tuna-avocado mixture and mix gently until well combined.

Step 5: Fill the cucumber boats

Spoon the filling evenly into the cucumber boats.

Step 6: Serve

Serve immediately, garnished with extra herbs if desired.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For the best texture contrast, don't let the prepared cucumber boats sit too long before serving. The salt in the filling will draw moisture from the cucumbers, potentially making them less crisp. If you need to prepare ahead, keep the filling and cucumber boats separate until just before serving. Pat the cucumber boats dry with a paper towel if they release excess moisture.

Varianten und Anpassungen

This versatile recipe welcomes many adaptations. For a vegetarian version, replace the tuna with mashed chickpeas or white beans. Mediterranean lovers might add chopped Kalamata olives, feta cheese, and a touch of oregano. For an Asian twist, mix in a teaspoon of soy sauce and sesame oil instead of the Dijon dressing, and top with sesame seeds and green onions. Those avoiding fish can use shredded rotisserie chicken as noted in the recipe tips.

Serviervorschläge

These cucumber boats make an elegant appetizer when cut into smaller sections. For a more substantial meal, serve alongside a light soup or a small portion of whole grain crackers. They also pair wonderfully with a chilled gazpacho in summer or a warm miso soup in cooler months. For entertaining, arrange the boats on a platter with lemon wedges and extra herbs for a visually appealing presentation that guests can customize to their taste.

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These Tuna Avocado Cucumber Boats exemplify how healthy eating doesn't have to be complicated or time-consuming. With just a few quality ingredients and minimal prep work, you can create a meal that nourishes your body while delighting your senses. Whether you're making them for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or sharing them as an appetizer with friends, these fresh, flavorful boats are sure to become a regular in your meal rotation.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I prepare the cucumber boats?

Slice cucumbers lengthwise and scoop out the seeds gently with a spoon to create hollow boats for filling.

→ Can I substitute ingredients in the filling?

Yes, you can swap the tuna for shredded chicken or chickpeas and add diced tomatoes or bell peppers for extra crunch.

→ What dressing is used for the filling?

A simple dressing of lemon juice, olive oil, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper adds bright, balanced flavors to the tuna and avocado.

→ Is this dish suitable for special diets?

It is gluten-free, low-carb, and dairy-free, making it suitable for various dietary preferences.

→ How should I serve the cucumber boats?

Serve them immediately after filling, garnished with extra herbs, or chilled for enhanced flavor and texture.