If you’re seeking a tantalizing twist on avocados, look no further than the enticing creation of Hot Tuna Salad in Avocado Shells! This delightful dish is a breeze to whip up, making it an ideal option for brunch, lunch, or supper. Hailing from the esteemed pages of Betty Crocker’s Microwave Cookbook, it promises a culinary adventure that’s both quick and satisfying.
Let’s delve into the delectable details of this recipe, which falls snugly into the Lunch/Snacks category, offering a medley of flavors that will surely please all palates, especially those of your little ones. With keywords like “Tuna,” “Cheese,” “Vegetable,” “Kid Friendly,” “Microwave,” “< 30 Mins," "Easy," and "Inexpensive," you know you're in for a treat that's not only delicious but also convenient and budget-friendly.
Now, onto the ingredients! You’ll need:
- 1 stalk of celery
- 1 can of tuna
- 1/3 cup of mayonnaise
- 1 can of pimentos
- 1/2 teaspoon of chili powder
- 3 ripe avocados
- 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese
This assembly of ingredients promises a burst of flavors and textures that will leave your taste buds dancing with delight. And fear not, the nutritional breakdown is equally impressive, with each serving boasting 245.1 calories, 19.3 grams of fat, 4.5 grams of saturated fat, 20.6 milligrams of cholesterol, 95 milligrams of sodium, 9.8 grams of carbohydrates, 7.3 grams of fiber, 1.3 grams of sugar, and 11.2 grams of protein. It’s a balanced option that’s as wholesome as it is tasty!
Now, let’s get down to the nitty-gritty of preparing this culinary masterpiece. With a prep time of just 10 minutes and a cook time of a mere 8 minutes, you’ll have this dish on the table in no time, making it perfect for those busy days when you crave something nourishing yet speedy.
To start, simply mix together the diced celery, drained tuna, mayonnaise, chopped pimentos, and chili powder in a bowl. This flavorful concoction serves as the heart of our dish, promising a symphony of tastes that will elevate the humble avocado to new heights.
Next, it’s time to prepare the avocado shells. Carefully halve the avocados and remove the pits, then arrange them on a microwave-safe plate, ensuring the narrow ends face towards the center. This simple step sets the stage for the main event, allowing the creamy avocados to cradle the savory tuna mixture in their verdant embrace.
Once the avocados are prepped, spoon the tuna mixture into each half, ensuring it covers the entire cut surface in a generous layer of goodness. Then, cover the plate with wax paper and microwave on high for 3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the tuna to heat through.
But wait, there’s more! After the initial microwave session, it’s time to add the finishing touch: a sprinkle of shredded cheddar cheese. Liberally dust the top of each avocado half with cheese, then rotate the plate halfway and return it to the microwave, uncovered, for an additional 3 to 5 minutes, or until the tuna is piping hot and the cheese is irresistibly melted and bubbly.
And there you have it, folks! A sensational dish that’s as visually stunning as it is delicious, Hot Tuna Salad in Avocado Shells is sure to become a staple in your culinary repertoire. Whether enjoyed as a light lunch, a satisfying snack, or a flavorful addition to your next gathering, this recipe delivers on all fronts, offering a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. So why wait? Grab those avocados and get cooking—your taste buds will thank you!
