If you are looking for a vibrant and nourishing dish that’s as delightful to look at as it is to eat, this Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe is an absolute must-try. Combining creamy, ripe avocados with tender, flavorful salmon mixed in a tangy and herby dressing, this recipe offers the perfect balance of richness and freshness. It comes together quickly with simple ingredients, making it ideal for a nutritious lunch, an elegant appetizer, or a light dinner that impresses without any fuss. The texture, color, and health benefits all combine to create a dish that feels like a little celebration in every bite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Putting together this Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe is delightfully simple, thanks to ingredients that are easy to find but pack plenty of flavor and texture. Each component plays an essential role, from the creamy avocado providing a luscious base to the tangy Greek yogurt and Dijon mustard waking up the palate, and the fresh dill adding a burst of garden-fresh brightness.
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted: Choose avocados that are soft but not mushy for the best creamy texture to hold the filling.
- 1 cup cooked salmon (flaked or chopped): Fresh or canned salmon works beautifully, offering a rich protein kick to the dish.
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt: Adds a tangy creaminess that blends flavors and keeps the filling moist without overpowering it.
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise: Enhances the richness and helps bind the filling ingredients together smoothly.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Injects a burst of brightness and helps balance the richness in the dish.
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard: Brings subtle heat and depth to the salmon mixture.
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill: Offers a refreshing herbal note that complements the salmon perfectly.
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion: Adds a subtle crunch and a hint of sharpness that keeps the filling lively.
- Salt and black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that elevate all the flavors.
- Optional toppings (capers, extra dill, lemon wedges): Perfect little touches for extra zing and attractive presentation.
How to Make Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Salmon Mixture
In a medium bowl, combine the cooked salmon with Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, and chopped red onion. Stir everything gently but thoroughly until the mixture is well blended and creamy. Don’t forget to season generously with salt and black pepper, tasting as you go to balance the flavors just right.
Step 2: Hollow Out the Avocados
Carefully scoop out a small amount of flesh from each avocado half. This not only creates extra space for the salmon filling but also allows you to fold that creamy avocado meat back into the filling mixture, keeping everything smooth and luxurious.
Step 3: Combine and Fill
Add the scooped avocado flesh to the salmon mixture and gently fold it in, making sure to keep the texture chunky but creamy. Then, spoon the filling evenly back into each avocado half, piling it on generously for a satisfying presentation and bite.
Step 4: Garnish and Serve
Top each stuffed avocado half with your choice of optional toppings like briny capers, a sprinkle of fresh dill, or a squeeze of lemon juice for an added touch of zest. Serve immediately to enjoy the fresh flavors and creamy textures at their peak.
How to Serve Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes, like a few capers or an extra sprig of dill, highlight the freshness and add a burst of flavor contrast without overwhelming the main ingredients. A quick squeeze of lemon juice just before serving makes the dish shine with brightness.
Side Dishes
Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp green salads, crusty bread, or a light vegetable soup. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside quinoa or a fresh cucumber and tomato salad to complement the richness of the avocados and salmon.
Creative Ways to Present
For a stunning presentation, arrange the stuffed avocados on a platter garnished with edible flowers or thin cucumber ribbons. You can also halve cherry tomatoes and nestle them around each avocado for a pop of vibrant color that makes the dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store the salmon mixture separately from the avocado halves in airtight containers. This prevents the avocados from browning and keeps the filling fresh. When ready to eat, simply reassemble for the best texture and flavor.
Freezing
This Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe is best enjoyed fresh, as freezing can alter the creamy texture of the avocados and the delicate salmon mixture. For longer storage, freezing only the salmon filling (without avocado) is an option, but fresh avocado should be avoided in the freezer.
Reheating
Because this dish is served cold and features ingredients like avocado and Greek yogurt that don’t hold up well to heat, reheating is not recommended. Instead, enjoy leftovers as a cool and refreshing meal straight from the fridge.
FAQs
Can I use canned salmon for this recipe?
Absolutely! Canned salmon is a convenient and tasty alternative to fresh cooked salmon. Just be sure to drain it well and check for any bones before mixing it into your filling.
Is there a dairy-free version of the Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe?
Yes, you can easily swap out the Greek yogurt for a dairy-free yogurt alternative or simply use mashed avocado in place of both Greek yogurt and mayonnaise to keep it creamy without dairy.
How do I keep the avocados from browning?
To minimize browning, prepare the filling and assemble as close to serving time as possible. You can also brush a little lemon juice on the exposed avocado flesh to slow oxidation.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
This recipe relies on salmon, so vegan or vegetarian versions would require significant changes. You might try swapping the salmon for chickpeas or smoked tofu with similar seasonings, but it wouldn’t be a Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe anymore!
What can I serve alongside for a complete meal?
A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs beautifully, or enjoy it alongside quinoa or roasted vegetables for a balanced plate.
Final Thoughts
This Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe is one of those brilliantly easy dishes that manages to feel both indulgent and healthy, fresh and satisfying all at once. Whether you are feeding friends or treating yourself, these creamy avocados filled with zesty, tender salmon will bring joy to your table with minimal effort. I can’t wait for you to give it a try and make it a regular favorite in your kitchen!
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Salmon-Stuffed Avocados Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 0 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Appetizer
- Method: No-Cook
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This vibrant and nutritious recipe features ripe avocado halves generously stuffed with a creamy, flavorful salmon mixture. Combining cooked salmon with Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon juice, this no-cook appetizer is both healthy and satisfying, perfect for a quick lunch or elegant starter.
Ingredients
Avocado Stuffing
- 2 ripe avocados, halved and pitted
- 1 cup cooked salmon, flaked or chopped
- 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
- 2 tablespoons chopped red onion
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes
- Capers
- Extra dill
- Lemon wedges
Instructions
- Prepare the Salmon Mixture: In a medium bowl, combine the cooked salmon, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, lemon juice, Dijon mustard, fresh dill, and chopped red onion. Stir the mixture until all ingredients are well blended. Season with salt and black pepper according to your taste preferences.
- Scoop Out Avocado Flesh: Take each avocado half and gently scoop out a small portion of flesh to create additional space for the salmon filling. Add the scooped avocado flesh to the salmon mixture to enhance creaminess and flavor. Gently fold the mixture to incorporate.
- Fill the Avocado Halves: Spoon the prepared salmon mixture evenly into each avocado half, ensuring the filling is well distributed and slightly mounded for an appealing presentation.
- Add Toppings and Serve: Garnish with optional toppings such as capers, additional fresh dill, or a squeeze of lemon juice to enhance flavor. Serve the stuffed avocados immediately to enjoy their freshness and optimal taste.
Notes
- For a dairy-free alternative, substitute the Greek yogurt with mashed avocado or a suitable dairy-free yogurt.
- This recipe works well with canned salmon if fresh salmon is unavailable, ensuring convenience without compromising flavor.
- To keep the avocado from browning, consider lightly brushing the exposed avocado with lemon juice before stuffing.
