Easy No Cook Tuna and Avocado Tostadas Recipe

Easy No Cook Tuna and Avocado Tostadas Recipe

Ingredients

  • 2 cans tuna, well drained
  • 1/3 cup diced red bell pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped green onion
  • 1 jalapeno, seeded and finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 2 teaspoons balsamic vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 2 avocados, peeled, pitted, and mashed
  • 6 tostada shells
  • 1 lemon, cut into 6 wedges
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • Mexican hot sauce (such as Cholula)

Directions

  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine the tuna, red bell pepper, green onion, jalapeno, mayonnaise, balsamic vinegar, and garlic powder. Stir until well mixed.
  2. Spread a generous layer of mashed avocado evenly over each tostada shell.
  3. Squeeze a wedge of lemon over the avocado and lightly sprinkle with kosher salt.
  4. Top each tostada with an even portion of the tuna mixture.
  5. Drizzle with Mexican hot sauce to taste, and add more lemon juice if desired.
  6. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

Nutrition Amount % Daily Value
Calories 380
Total Fat 23g 30%
Saturated Fat 4g 20%
Cholesterol 26mg 9%
Sodium 547mg 24%
Total Carbohydrate 33g 12%
Dietary Fiber 12g 41%
Total Sugars 7g
Protein 18g 36%
Vitamin C 98mg 109%
Calcium 70mg 5%
Iron 2mg 12%
Potassium 909mg 19%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

The Story Behind Tuna and Avocado Tostadas

Tuna and avocado tostadas, a refreshing twist on traditional Mexican tostadas, combine the simplicity of canned tuna with the creamy richness of ripe avocado. The tostada itself dates back centuries in Mexican cuisine, originating as a practical way to use leftover tortillas by frying them until crisp. Over time, regional variations incorporated local proteins and fresh produce. Tuna, often considered a modern convenience ingredient, became popular in tostadas during the mid-20th century, when canned seafood gained international appeal. This combination highlights the ingenuity of blending pantry staples with fresh flavors, creating a dish that is both quick and satisfying.

Regional Characteristics

While tostadas are a staple throughout Mexico, the tuna and avocado version is most commonly associated with coastal areas where seafood is abundant. In regions like Baja California and the Yucatn Peninsula, fresh seafood toppings, including tuna, shrimp, or fish ceviche, are frequently paired with crisp tostadas. The addition of avocado, a fruit native to Mexico, enhances the regional authenticity while providing a creamy balance to the crunchy tortilla base. Each locality may season the mixture differently, using ingredients like jalapeos, lime juice, or local hot sauces to suit regional tastes.

What Sets It Apart

Unlike traditional tostadas topped with refried beans, shredded chicken, or ground beef, the tuna and avocado variation stands out for its light, no-cook preparation. It offers a fresher flavor profile and a healthier nutritional composition, making it ideal for warm-weather meals. The creamy avocado and tangy lemon juice contrast with the mild tuna, creating a balanced texture that differentiates it from heavier, cooked tostadas. This combination also allows for quick customization, from adding spicy hot sauce to varying the type of canned tuna or tortilla base.

Typical Occasions and Serving

Tuna and avocado tostadas are commonly served as casual lunches, summer dinners, or party appetizers. They are particularly popular at beachside eateries and informal gatherings, where their ease of preparation is a major advantage. Many restaurants present them with colorful garnishes such as diced bell peppers, green onions, and a drizzle of local hot sauce, creating a visually appealing and flavorful dish that is perfect for sharing.

Interesting Facts

  • The combination of tuna and avocado is nutritionally powerful, providing high protein, healthy fats, and essential vitamins in a single dish.
  • Although avocado has been cultivated in Mexico for thousands of years, its pairing with canned tuna is a relatively modern innovation.
  • Tostadas are often called the Mexican pizza due to their versatility and ability to carry a variety of toppings.
  • The dishs no-cook nature makes it part of a growing trend in global cuisine emphasizing convenience without compromising taste.
  • In Mexican coastal towns, fresh tuna is sometimes used instead of canned, creating a more luxurious variation known as tostadas de atn fresco.

FAQ about Easy No Cook Tuna and Avocado Tostadas Recipe

The tuna mixture can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Avoid storing it at room temperature for more than 2 hours to prevent bacterial growth.

You can mash the avocado up to a few hours in advance, but to prevent browning, add a little lemon juice and cover it tightly with plastic wrap directly on the surface of the avocado.

Yes, by using gluten-free tostada shells, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free. Ensure that all other ingredients, like hot sauce or mayonnaise, are labeled gluten-free.

Assembled tostadas are best eaten immediately. If you need to store them, cover them loosely and refrigerate for up to 2 hours, but note that the tostada shells may become soggy.

Yes, you can substitute ingredients based on preference. For example, Greek yogurt can replace mayonnaise, or roasted red peppers can replace fresh bell pepper. Adjust seasoning accordingly.

Yes, canned tuna is pre-cooked and safe to eat without further cooking. Make sure to drain it properly before mixing with other ingredients.

You can scale the ingredients proportionally. Keep in mind that assembling large batches right before serving is best to maintain freshness and prevent soggy tostadas.

Store leftover mashed avocado in an airtight container with a thin layer of lemon juice on top. Refrigerate and use within 1 day for best quality.

To make a vegetarian or vegan version, replace tuna with mashed chickpeas or a plant-based tuna alternative, and use vegan mayonnaise.

Store tostada shells in a cool, dry place in a sealed container. Avoid assembling them until ready to serve to maintain their crunch.

Comments

Anthony Rivera

12/24/2024 04:34:31 AM

I'll use romaine lettuce leaves instead of the carbs! I'm a dedicated carnivore through and through!

Christine Baker

05/07/2023 05:18:26 AM

Absolutely amazing! I opted for a zero-carb tortilla to cut down on carbs and went for hickory smoked flavored tuna for an extra kick of taste!