Lemon Tuna Avocado Snack
This effortlessly prepared snack combines creamy avocado, protein-rich albacore tuna, and vibrant lemon for a refreshing and healthy bite. Enhanced with crunchy sunflower seeds and fresh basil, it's a perfect light meal or appetizer that comes together in minutes, offering a delightful balance of flavors and textures.
Equipment
- 1 Cutting Board
- 1 Chef's knife
- 1 Small Mixing Bowl
- 1 Fork For mashing and mixing
- 1 Microplane or Zester For lemon zest
Ingredients
Main
- 1 ripe avocado
- Zest and juice of 1 lemon
- 1 teaspoon extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 six-ounce solid albacore tuna in spring water
- 1 tablespoon sunflower seeds
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the avocado: Halve, pit, and scoop the flesh into a small mixing bowl.
- Using a fork, lightly mash the avocado, leaving some texture if preferred.
- Zest the entire lemon directly into the bowl with the avocado.
- Halve the lemon and squeeze its juice into the bowl, ensuring no seeds fall in.
- Thoroughly drain the solid albacore tuna and add it to the avocado mixture.
- Add the extra-virgin olive oil, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Gently mix all ingredients until well combined, being careful not to overmix the tuna.
- Stir in the sunflower seeds, reserving a few for garnish if desired.
- Taste and adjust seasoning as necessary, adding more lemon, salt, or pepper to achieve balance.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves (if using) and serve immediately.
Notes
Ensure your avocado is perfectly ripe for a creamy texture; underripe avocados will be hard and flavorless, overripe can be stringy. Drain the albacore tuna thoroughly to prevent a watery final product. Always zest the lemon before juicing to maximize yield and avoid mess. Fresh lemon is paramount for brightness. For an elevated crunch, lightly toast the sunflower seeds in a dry pan until fragrant before incorporating. Season judiciously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting as you go. Consider a pinch of finely diced red onion or capers for an additional layer of piquant flavor.