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Fresh High-Protein Tuna Cucumber Boats Easy Recipe with Avocado and Lemon Zest

high-protein tuna cucumber boats - featured image

A quick, protein-packed, and light recipe featuring crunchy cucumber boats filled with a creamy tuna and avocado mix, topped with fresh lemon zest for a bright, satisfying bite.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 large English cucumbers (firm and fresh)
  • 1 can (5 oz / 140 g) wild-caught tuna in water, drained
  • 1 ripe avocado, peeled and pitted
  • Zest of 1 medium lemon
  • 2 tablespoons finely diced red onion
  • 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (optional)
  • 2 tablespoons plain, full-fat Greek yogurt
  • 1 teaspoon extra virgin olive oil
  • Salt and freshly cracked black pepper to taste
  • A pinch of garlic powder (optional)

Instructions

  1. Wash the cucumbers thoroughly. Cut each cucumber in half lengthwise. Use a spoon to gently scoop out the seeds and some of the flesh, creating ‘boats.’ Be careful not to scoop too deep to avoid breaking the cucumber walls. Set aside the scooped flesh.
  2. In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna and diced red onion. Add the ripe avocado and mash slightly with a fork, leaving some texture.
  3. Add the Greek yogurt, olive oil, lemon zest, and chopped parsley to the bowl. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. Mix gently until all ingredients are well incorporated. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  4. Spoon the tuna and avocado mixture evenly into the cucumber halves. Don’t overfill to prevent the filling from spilling out.
  5. Sprinkle a little extra lemon zest or fresh parsley on top for color and zest. Serve immediately or chill briefly for a cool, refreshing snack.

Notes

Use English cucumbers for thinner skin and fewer seeds. Drain tuna thoroughly to avoid watery filling. Avoid over-mashing avocado to maintain texture contrast. Chill cucumbers while preparing filling to keep them crisp. Fresh lemon zest is preferred over bottled lemon juice for best flavor. Can substitute Greek yogurt with dairy-free yogurt for a dairy-free option.

Nutrition

Keywords: tuna cucumber boats, high-protein snack, avocado tuna salad, lemon zest tuna, healthy lunch, low-carb snack, gluten-free, quick tuna recipe