Tuna Avocado Cucumber Salad – Healthy, Fresh & Quick

This Tuna Avocado Cucumber Salad is everything you want in a quick and healthy meal—protein-packed tuna, creamy avocado, crunchy cucumber, and a zesty lemon-olive oil dressing.

It’s a refreshing salad that’s ready in just 10 minutes, making it perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep.

Whether you’re following a low-carb, paleo, or Mediterranean-style diet, this salad fits the bill with clean ingredients, healthy fats, and tons of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

No cooking required – Just chop, mix, and serve

High in protein and healthy fats – Keeps you full and energized

Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free – Great for all diets

Incredibly fresh and flavorful – Every bite is crisp, creamy, and zesty

Fast and easy – Perfect for busy weekdays

What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)

Tuna in oil – Rich, flaky protein that adds depth

English cucumber – Thin-skinned and crisp, perfect for raw salads

Avocados – Creamy texture and heart-healthy fats

Red onion – Adds bite and crunch

Fresh cilantro – Herbaceous and bright

Lemon juice – Brightens and balances the richness

Extra virgin olive oil – Adds flavor and healthy fat

Sea salt and black pepper – Simple seasonings that elevate everything

Pro Tips Before You Start

Use tuna in oil – It adds richness and moisture to the salad

Slice ingredients evenly – Helps every bite feel balanced

Add avocado last – To prevent it from browning too soon

Taste and adjust seasoning – You may want more salt or lemon depending on your palate

Chill ingredients ahead – For an extra refreshing salad

How to Make Tuna Avocado Cucumber Salad

Step 1: Prep the Tuna

Open and drain three 5-ounce cans of tuna in oil.

Use a fork to flake the tuna into bite-sized pieces.

Step 2: Slice the Veggies

Slice 1 English cucumber into thin rounds or half-moons

Slice 2 large or 3 medium avocados – peel, pit, and slice

Thinly slice 1 red onion

Roughly chop ¼ cup fresh cilantro

Step 3: Assemble the Salad

In a large salad bowl, combine: Flaked tuna, Cucumber slices, Avocado slices, Red onion, Chopped cilantro

Step 4: Make the Dressing

In a small bowl, whisk together:

2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

1 teaspoon sea salt (or to taste)

⅛ teaspoon black pepper

Step 5: Toss and Serve

Pour the dressing over the salad.

Toss gently to coat all ingredients evenly without mashing the avocado.

Serve immediately, or chill for 10–15 minutes before serving.

What to Serve With Tuna Avocado Cucumber Salad

Crusty bread or pita chips – For scooping

Steamed rice or quinoa – For a heartier meal

Hard-boiled eggs – Adds extra protein

Roasted sweet potatoes – A warm and sweet contrast

Soup or broth – Light chicken or vegetable soup pairs well

Variations and Substitutions

Swap tuna for salmon – Use canned or grilled for a twist

Add cherry tomatoes – For a juicy pop of color

Use parsley instead of cilantro – For a more neutral herb flavor

Add feta or goat cheese – If not avoiding dairy

Include leafy greens – Like arugula or baby spinach

Make it spicy – Add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes

Storage Tips

Refrigerator – Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 1 day

Best fresh – Avocados will brown quickly, so it’s best eaten right away

Prep ahead tip – Slice everything except the avocado, then add fresh before serving

FAQs

Can I use tuna in water instead of oil?
Yes, but tuna in oil adds more richness and flavor.

If using tuna in water, consider adding a bit more olive oil.

Is this salad keto-friendly?
Absolutely. It’s low in carbs and high in healthy fats and protein.

Can I add eggs to this salad?
Yes! Chopped hard-boiled eggs go great with the other ingredients.

Is it okay to use lime instead of lemon?
Yes, lime juice works well and gives a slightly different citrus note.

How can I make this salad spicy?
Add chopped jalapeño, red pepper flakes, or a drizzle of hot sauce.

Can I turn this into a sandwich or wrap?
Definitely—serve it in pita, lettuce cups, or on toasted bread for a quick lunch.

Final Thoughts

This Tuna Avocado Cucumber Salad is the kind of recipe that checks all the boxes: easy, fresh, healthy, and incredibly satisfying.

Whether you’re looking for a clean lunch, a light dinner, or a dish to bring to a gathering, this salad delivers every time.

It’s versatile, customizable, and full of bold flavors and nourishing ingredients.

Once you try it, it might just become a regular in your weekly meal rotation.