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mexican tuna salad

Mexican Tuna Salad with Black Beans and Avocado

A protein-packed Mexican tuna salad featuring black beans, corn, bell peppers, and creamy avocado dressed with lime and cilantro for a refreshing and satisfying meal.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Total Time 15 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Protein Salads
Cuisine: Mexican
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

For the Salad
  • 2 cans (5 oz each) solid white albacore tuna drained
  • 1 cup black beans rinsed and drained
  • 1 cup corn kernels fresh, frozen and thawed, or canned
  • 1 red bell pepper diced
  • ½ red onion finely diced, optional
  • ¼ cup fresh cilantro chopped
  • 1 ripe avocado cubed
  • 1 jalapeño seeded and minced, optional
For the Dressing
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • ¼ teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon chili powder optional
  • 1 clove garlic minced, optional
  • ¼ teaspoon smoked paprika optional
  • salt and pepper to taste

Equipment

  • Large mixing bowl
  • Small bowl for dressing
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Fork
  • Measuring spoons
  • Measuring cups
  • Whisk

Method
 

  1. In a large mixing bowl, gently flake the drained tuna with a fork.
  2. Add the rinsed and drained black beans and corn kernels to the bowl with the tuna.
  3. Add the diced red bell pepper, finely diced red onion (if using), and minced jalapeño (if using) to the mixture.
  4. In a separate small bowl, whisk together the lime juice, olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder (if using), minced garlic (if using), smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper until well combined.
  5. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and fold gently to combine, being careful not to break up the tuna too much.
  6. Add the fresh chopped cilantro and fold again until evenly distributed throughout the salad.
  7. Gently fold in the cubed avocado last, using a light touch to prevent it from becoming mushy.
  8. Taste and adjust seasonings as needed, adding more lime juice for brightness or salt for flavor.
  9. Let the salad rest for 10-15 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together.
  10. Serve chilled or at room temperature.

Notes

  • For meal prep, store the avocado separately and add just before serving to prevent browning.
  • This salad is best consumed within 2 days of preparation when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
  • For a lower-carb version, reduce or omit the black beans and corn.
  • Try serving this in lettuce cups or on top of mixed greens for a complete meal.