Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad

If you’re looking for a quick and delightful meal that brings everyone to the table, then this Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad is just what you need! Imagine creamy avocado mingling with tender tuna and fresh veggies, all drizzled with a zesty sesame-soy dressing. It’s a dish that balances flavor and nutrition beautifully, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual family gatherings. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to use pantry staples while still feeling like a treat!

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. You can whip it up quickly, and the combination of textures—crispy rice, smooth avocado, and crunchy cucumbers—will keep everyone coming back for seconds. So gather your ingredients, and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: This salad is ready in just over an hour, making it an ideal choice for those hectic evenings when time is short.
• Family-friendly appeal: With its delightful flavors and textures, even picky eaters will enjoy digging into this delicious dish!
• Versatile ingredients: Feel free to swap out veggies based on what you have on hand; it’s all about using wholesome ingredients you love.
• Make-ahead convenience: The crispy rice can be prepared in advance, allowing you to assemble the salad right before serving for maximum crunch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this vibrant Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad, you’ll need some simple yet wholesome ingredients. Each one contributes to the deliciousness of the dish. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Crispy Rice

• 3 cups (555 g) cooked jasmine or sushi rice, cooled (or a 450 g/1 lb packet of microwave jasmine rice)
• 2 tbsp tamari or all-purpose soy sauce
• 1 tsp dark soy sauce (optional, for colour)
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp olive oil

For the Dressing

• ½ cup (125 g) whole-egg mayonnaise (see note 1 about dairy-free)
• 3 tbsp tamari or all-purpose soy sauce
• 2 tbsp rice apple vinegar
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 1 tbsp honey
• 1 tbsp sriracha (optional)

For the Salad

• 425 g (15 oz) canned tuna in oil, drained
• 2 Lebanese (short) cucumbers, sliced into half-moons
• 1 cup (140 g) frozen edamame beans, thawed
• 1 avocado, diced
• 2 spring onions (scallions), finely sliced
• 1 tsp black sesame seeds
• Chilli crisp or chilli oil (optional)
• 1 fresh jalapeño, sliced (optional)

Variations

This Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad is wonderfully flexible! Here are a few easy variations to make it your own:

• Swap the protein: If you’re not a fan of tuna or want to try something different, consider using canned salmon or chickpeas for a plant-based option.
• Add more crunch: Toss in some bell peppers or shredded carrots for extra color and texture.
• Boost the greens: Incorporate spinach or kale into the salad for added nutrients and freshness.
• Change the dressing: Feel free to experiment with different dressings; a lime vinaigrette would add a refreshing twist!

How to Make Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

First things first! Preheat your oven to 220°C (425°F). Spread your cooled rice onto a baking tray lined with parchment paper. Drizzle it with tamari, dark soy sauce (if using), sesame oil, and olive oil. Toss everything together until every grain is coated—this step is crucial as it ensures even cooking. Spread it out evenly in a thin layer so it gets perfectly crispy.

Step 2: Bake Until Crispy

Pop your baking tray into the preheated oven and let it bake for 40–50 minutes. Be sure to check on it every 15 minutes and give it a stir to ensure even browning. This will yield that delightful crunch we’re after!

Step 3: Make the Dressing

While your rice crisps up nicely in the oven, whisk together all your dressing ingredients in a medium bowl until combined. The creamy texture from mayonnaise and tang from vinegar will elevate all those lovely flavors in your salad.

Step 4: Assemble Your Salad

In a large bowl, combine your drained tuna, cucumber slices, thawed edamame beans, diced avocado, finely sliced spring onion, and finally that crispy rice once it’s done baking. This mix of colors and textures is sure to excite!

Step 5: Dress It Up

Drizzle your homemade dressing over the salad mixture and toss gently until everything is well-coated. Sprinkle with black sesame seeds and add chilli crisp or jalapeño slices if you’re feeling adventurous.

Step 6: Serve & Enjoy!

Toss everything at the table right before serving so that each bite has that delightful crunch from the crispy rice. Gather around with family or friends and enjoy this scrumptious Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad together!

Pro Tips for Making Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad

Creating this delightful Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad is simple, but a few pro tips can elevate your dish to the next level!

• Use day-old rice: If you have leftover rice, using it will yield better results because it’s drier and helps achieve that perfect crispy texture when baked.
• Don’t skip the stirring: Regularly stirring the rice while it bakes ensures even cooking and prevents any pieces from burning, leading to a perfectly crispy finish.
• Customize your veggies: Feel free to add or substitute any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers or carrots. This keeps the salad fresh and tailored to your taste!
• Taste before serving: Before tossing everything together, give the dressing a quick taste test. Adjusting the seasoning can make a world of difference in flavor.
• Serve immediately for crispiness: For the best experience, serve the salad right after tossing. The crispy rice will keep its crunch, making every bite delightful.

How to Serve Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad

This Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad is not only delicious but also visually appealing! Here are some ideas on how to present it beautifully at your table.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh herbs: A sprinkle of cilantro or parsley adds freshness and color.
• Lime wedges: Serving lime wedges on the side allows everyone to add a splash of citrusy zing to their salad.

Side Dishes

• Miso Soup: This warm soup complements the flavors in your salad while providing a comforting touch.
• Asian Cucumber Salad: A refreshing side with a tangy dressing that pairs well with the richness of avocado.
• Steamed Dumplings: These savory bites make for an excellent accompaniment, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies bring warmth and heartiness to your meal, creating a balanced dining experience.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad will not only be a hit at mealtime but also a feast for the eyes! Enjoy your culinary creation!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully and making busy weeknights a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover salad in an airtight container in the fridge.
• Consume within 2-3 days for the best flavor and texture.
• Keep the crispy rice separate if possible to maintain its crunchiness.

Freezing

• It’s best not to freeze the assembled salad as ingredients like avocado and cucumber don’t thaw well.
• However, you can freeze the crispy rice separately for up to a month. Just reheat it in the oven before serving.

Reheating

• To reheat the crispy rice, spread it on a baking sheet and warm it in a preheated oven at 200°C (400°F) for about 10-15 minutes until heated through and crispy.
• Avoid reheating any mixed salad components, as they will lose their fresh texture.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe:

Can I make Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad dairy-free?

Yes! Simply substitute the whole-egg mayonnaise with a dairy-free alternative, like an avocado-based or vegan mayo.

How long does Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad last in the fridge?

Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days, but it’s best enjoyed fresh!

What can I add to my Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad?

Feel free to customize your salad with additional toppings such as cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or even nuts for extra crunch!

Is Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This recipe is great for meal prep as you can prepare components ahead of time and assemble them when ready to eat.

Can I use brown rice instead of jasmine or sushi rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice if you prefer. Just keep in mind that it may require a longer cooking time and will have a different texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Tuna Avocado Crispy Rice Salad! It’s not only easy to prepare but also bursting with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your creations!