We Can’t Get Enough of This Viral Tunacado Sandwich—Here’s How to Make It

Every editorial product is independently selected, though we may be compensated or receive an affiliate commission if you buy something through our links. Ratings and prices are accurate and items are in stock as of time of publication.

Tuna and avocado have combined to become the internet’s favorite lunch and we’re obsessed

Tuna and avocado are each tasty in their own humble ways, though neither is particularly innovative or groundbreaking. However, when you put tuna and avocado together on a sandwich—in the hands of a TikTok influencer— and call it “tunacado”…look out! Because the tunacado is now the trendiest sandwich on the internet, with the #tunacado hashtag on TikTok clocking more than 17 million views.

It all started a couple of months ago when TikTok creator Danielle Matzon posted a video about the tunacado sandwich she bought at Joe & The Juice, a coffee and juice chain that also offers sandwiches and bowls.

@dzaslavsky Tunacado #tunasandwich #joeandthejuice #capers #pickle ♬ original sound – danielle

What Is a Tunacado Sandwich?

The tunacado sandwich at Joe & The Juice follows a simple formula: Joe’s special flatbread, tomato, avocado, “vegan pesto,” and “tuna mousse.” In Matzon’s videos, she suggests upgrading it with hot sauce, capers and pickles. In one video, she even visits a Joe & The Juice location and gets step-by-step instructions from an employee.

@dzaslavsky The making of the Tunacado at the Prince Street 📍 location in NYC #joeandthejuice #tunacado ♬ original sound – danielle

How to Make a Tunacado Sandwich

This version of the tunacado sandwich calls for a classic pesto. If you want a vegan pesto, omit the parmesan cheese and substitute a ¼ cup of nutritional yeast. For the tuna mousse, use canned tuna.

Ingredients

• 1 can of tuna
• 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
• Pinch of salt
• 1/2 tablespoon dill
• Flatbread or toasted sourdough slices
• 3 tablespoons pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• Avocado, sliced
• Tomato, sliced
• Capers, pickles, mustard, hot sauce (optional)

Tools You’ll Need

• Food processor: This Ninja food processor will make it easy to whip up both pesto sauce and tuna mousse.

Directions

Step 1: Make the tuna mousse

Add tuna, mayonnaise, salt and dill to a food processor and whiz until creamy.

Step 2: Prep your sandwich

Spread about a teaspoon of pesto on each half of the bread.

Step 3: Add the avocado

Arrange the slices of avocado on one slice.

Step 4: Time for the tuna mousse

Spread the tuna mousse on the other slice.

Step 5: Add tomato

Top the tuna mousse with tomato slices.

Step 6: Finish adding additional toppings

Add toppings such as capers, pickles, mustard, hot sauce or whatever you like!

Avocado Recipes You’ll Love

Avocado Crab Boats

These boats are wonderful with tortilla chips, beans or rice. You can also cover them, pack them on ice, and take them to a picnic or potluck. Straight from the oven or cold, they’re always delicious. —Frances Benthin, Scio, Oregon
Get Recipe

California Chicken Club Pizza

Inspired by the California Club pizza from California Pizza Kitchen, I decided to whip up my own version. It’s loaded with tons of fresh veggies, so that means it has to be good for you, right? —Robert Pickart, Chicago, Illinois

Midnight Caribbean Pork Sandwiches

These easy sandwiches have nice depth of flavor—savory, sweet, piquant, subtle and sublime. They’re worth the wait. —Elizabeth Bennett, Mill Creek, Washington

Avocado Bruschetta

My mother shared this fabulous recipe with me, and I have shared it with many friends. They are always requesting this tasty appetizer. The flavor explosion is something else. —Stephanie Perenyi, Littleton, Colorado

Creamy Avocado Manicotti

I am always looking for creative ways to make vegetarian dinners a little different. I grow my own basil, and avocados are a versatile favorite, so this recipe is a fantastic way to make manicotti that’s a little unusual. —Jennifer Coduto, Kent, Ohio

California Roll Wraps

I love the California rolls I get at sushi restaurants and wanted to capture those flavors in a sandwich I could take to work. I started with the standard ingredients, added a few others and came up with a hit. —Mary Pax-Shipley, Bend, Oregon

Fresh Shrimp and Avocado Nachos

I’m a fan of shrimp, and my family loves nachos. When I combined those favorites and added fresh avocado, the result was a cool yet satisfying snack. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan

Chicken Avocado Wraps

I came up with this chicken avocado wrap while trying to figure out what to make for lunch one day. The recipe is now a favorite at my house. —Shiva Houshidari, Plano, Texas

Blood Orange Avocado Salad

My refreshing side salad is such a nice addition to our calorie-loaded Thanksgiving dinner. Use regular oranges if you can’t find blood oranges. Finely chopped walnuts work well in place of the pomegranate seeds, too. —Nancy Heishman, Las Vegas, Nevada

Smothered Turkey Cutlets

Why have turkey just for Thanksgiving? This is an easy recipe that makes it feel like the holidays any day of the week. —Lisa Keys, Kennet Square, Pennsylvania

Shrimp and Avocado Salad

This Mexican shrimp cocktail’s bright, fresh flavors and colors entice even my little ones. I like to serve it alongside a scoop of lime-cilantro rice for a light meal. —Carly Terrell, Granbury, Texas

Cobb Salad Wrap Sandwiches

These wraps are easy for a summer night—and, even better, I don’t have to turn on my oven. There are smiles all around when I make this for dinner. —Bonnie Hawkins, Elkhorn, Wisconsin

Hasselback Tomato Clubs

This no-fuss, no-bread riff on a classic is perfect during tomato season. Make it for lunch or pair it with pasta salad for a light dinner. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Grilled Cheese and Avocado Sandwich

Who doesn’t love a grilled cheese sandwich? This version kicks it up a notch with avocado, tons of cheese and extra-crispy bread. —Josh Rink, Taste of Home Food Stylist

Avocado & Garbanzo Bean Quinoa Salad

This delicious quinoa avocado salad is high in protein and holds well in the fridge for a few days. If you make it ahead, add avocados and tomatoes right before serving. —Elizabeth Bennett, Seattle, Washington

Avocado Fruit Salad with Tangerine Vinaigrette

On long summer days when we just want to relax, I make a cool salad with avocado, berries and mint. The tangerine dressing is refreshingly different. —Carole Resnick, Cleveland, Ohio

Avocado-Ranch Chicken Wraps

My grandchildren love these wraps. My daughter gave me the recipe years ago, and now I make them as an afternoon snack or a light meal. I make the dressing from a simple ranch dressing mix. —Janice Stoltenow, Lebanon, Missouri

Southwestern Eggs Benedict with Avocado Sauce

I frequently make this spicy spinoff of classic eggs Benedict for my husband, who loves breakfast. I like the heat from the jalapenos and also that the avocado sauce is a healthier substitute for the usual hollandaise sauce. —Kara Scow, McKinney, Texas

Slim Guacamole Deviled Eggs

When you’re in the mood for some good finger food, try any one of these sinfully delicious variations on deviled eggs. They are a cinch to fill and make a popular contribution to a potluck or brunch. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Greendale, Wisconsin

Avocado Goat Cheese Truffles

Give guests the VIP treatment with luxurious truffles you can make in your own kitchen. The goat cheese is mild, and red pepper heats up each bite just a bit. Crackers are the perfect accompaniment. —Roxanne Chan, Albany, California

California Burger Bowls

Burgers are a weekly staple at our house year-round. Skip the fries, chips and bun—you won’t need them with these loaded veggie & fruit burgers. To spice up the mayo, add 1/2 tsp. of chipotle powder. —Courtney Stultz, Weir, Kansas

California Roll in a Jar

I’m a big sushi fan, but I don’t always have time to make those intricate rolls at home. This jar is layered with my favorite California roll ingredients, so I can get the flavor I love without the fuss. —James Schend, Deputy Editor, Taste of Home Magazine

Sausage Cobb Salad Lettuce Wraps

I substituted sausage for the bacon to make a lettuce roll-up your family and friends will adore. It’s flavorful, crunchy and pretty on the plate. —Devon Delaney, Westport, Connecticut

Potato Salad with Kalamata-Hazelnut Vinaigrette

Potato salad tossed with vinaigrette has a lighter taste than traditional mayo versions. I add velvety avocado and hazelnuts for cool texture and crunch. —Laurie Bock, Lynden, Washington

Avocado & Artichoke Pasta Salad

A squeeze of lime, a sprinkle of cilantro and a little avocado make this a creamy and zingy pasta salad. —Carrie Farias, Oak Ridge, New Jersey

Chicken Skewers with Cool Avocado Sauce

I’m always looking for lighter recipes to take on tailgate outings—and this one works fabulously for grilling. Just whip up the marinade, add the chicken and take it along to the pregame festivities. —Veronica Callaghan, Glastonbury, Connecticut

California Avocado Salad

Spread a little sunshine with this easy salad. Just four ingredients drizzled with Orange Yogurt Dressing and you have a light lunch or a pretty side to serve with dinner. —James Schend, Taste of Home Deputy Editor

Greek Brown and Wild Rice Bowls

This fresh rice dish tastes like the Mediterranean in a bowl! It is short on ingredients but packs in so much flavor. For a hand-held version, leave out the rice and tuck the rest of the ingredients in a pita pocket. —Darla Andrews, Boerne, Texas

Green & Gold Salsa

Edamame and corn give this unique salsa its unmistakable team colors. You can add a little salt if you like, too. A healthy alternative to creamy dips, it’s good for the extra point. —Maggie Lovat, Green Bay, Wisconsin

Fettuccine Shrimp Casserole

Our perfect pasta is a creamy shrimp fettuccine with cheddar, green chiles and cilantro. Garnish with dollops of sour cream, salsa and avocado. —Judy Armstrong, Prairieville, Louisiana

Shrimp ‘n’ Scallops Tropical Salad

A fruity dressing zip drapes this zippy salad from Jackie Pressinger of Stuart, Florida. Served on a bed of greens, the scrumptious combination of grilled seafood, veggies and macadamia nuts is the perfect way to celebrate a special summer occasion.

Avocado Fruit Salad

This dish is simply delish. I’m glad a friend gave me the recipe. My family loves it, and so do I. —Mildred Sherrer, Fort Worth, Texas

Tomato & Avocado Sandwiches

I’m a vegetarian, and this is a tasty, quick and healthy lunch I could eat for every meal. At my house, we call these sandwiches HATS: hummus, avocado, tomato and shallots. These are ingredients I almost always have on hand. —Sarah Jaraha, Moorestown, New Jersey

Avocado Romaine Salad

This salad truly represents my state, since avocados and almonds are grown in such abundance here. Plus, I love it because I can toss it together in minutes. —Jeanne Ellermeyer, Walnut Creek, California

Slow-Cooker Turkey Sloppy Joes

The combination of chili sauce and ground turkey in these sloppy joes creates a delicious flavor. The avocado adds a special touch to the sandwiches. —Nichole Jones, Idaho Falls, Idaho

Hearty Vegetarian Chili

Rich and flavorful, this chili is absolutely packed with fun veggies like mushrooms, beans and sun-dried tomatoes. It’s so filling, you’ll win over any meat lover. —Pam Ivbuls, Omaha, Nebraska

Pear Harvest Salad

We came up with this delicious salad trying to use up leftover turkey after Thanksgiving. We think you’ll love it, too! —Nancy Prewitt, Beaverton, Oregon

Gouda Turkey Club

With this recipe, two can enjoy the taste of something new and elegant in minutes. All you need to add is the ambiance for a bistro meal at home. —Karen Harris, Littleton, Colorado

California Sushi Rolls

These taste as good as any restaurant or store-bought California rolls. Plus, this is one of the easiest sushi recipes to make! For the best results, use sushi rice to ensure the right sticky consistency. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Nacho Tots

This is an easy, versatile party appetizer that everyone loves. If you can’t find chorizo, ground beef or ground chicken are wonderful, too. Top with anything you like! —Connie Krupp, Racine, Wisconsin

Shrimp & Avocado Salads

This gorgeous shrimp and avocado salad has such authentic flavor, you’ll think you’re sitting at a beachside cantina in Acapulco. —Heidi Hall, North St. Paul, Minnesota

Toasted Clubs with Dill Mayo

Simple to prepare, eye-appealing and loaded with flavor, this bistro-style
sandwich couldn’t be better! —Jenny Flake, Gilbert, Arizona

Chocolate-Avocado Mousse

I have rheumatoid arthritis, and I follow a special diet to help manage the symptoms. This avocado mousse is simple to make and tastes heavenly. The avocados can help reduce inflammation. —Kelly Kirby, Mill Bay, Nova Scotia

Shrimp Gazpacho

Here’s a refreshing take on the classic chilled tomato soup. Our twist features shrimp, lime and plenty of avocado. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Grilled Pork with Avocado Salsa

I love the zesty taste of this moist grilled tenderloin. The cumin, avocado and jalapeno give it southwestern flair. It’s an easy, elegant way to prepare pork. —Josephine Devereaux Piro, Easton, Pennsylvania

Crab-Stuffed Avocados

We enjoy having this creamy and crunchy salad out on our deck on summer evenings. And it goes together in minutes flat! —Gail VanGundy, Parker, Colorado

Avocado Quesadillas

Avocados give quesadillas some nutritional value and, fortunately, my son likes them. Thinly slice the avocado, and add chicken or beef for extra protein. —Debbie Limas, North Andover, Massachusetts

Lemon Cranberry Quinoa Salad

As the family cook, I appreciate how easy this is to throw together on a busy weeknight. Plus, this salad never gets boring. One of my favorite variations is to substitute diced fresh mango for the cranberries, cilantro for the parsley, and lime for the lemon juice and zest. —Mary Shenk, DeKalb, Illinois

Fresh Veggie Pockets

One summer I worked at a health food store that sold sandwiches. We were close to a college campus, so I made lots of these fresh-filled pitas for the students. Crunchy with crisp vegetables and nutty sunflower kernels, they’re a fast-to-fix lunch when you’re on the go.
-Linda Reeves, Cloverdale, Indiana

BLT Quinoa Bowls

I absolutely love a BLT with sliced avocado and an egg. Recently, I’ve been trying out grain bowls, and I thought the flavors of my favorite sandwich would work really well. My family agreed! —Elisabeth Larsen, Pleasant Grove, Utah

Easy Tomato Avocado Salad

I came up with this recipe one day when avocados were on sale at the market. It’s a nice change from a lettuce salad, plus it’s quick to make.

Shrimp Avocado Salad

This salad can be served as a cool and satisfying dinner or lunch. The delicious taste and smooth texture of avocados mixed with the crisp shrimp salad is heavenly. —Teri Rasey, Cadillac, Michigan

Orange Shrimp Mojo

With jalapeno, orange and avocado, every bite of this enticing entree is spicy, tangy and fresh. The sauce beautifully glazes the shrimp. —Don Thompson, Houston, Ohio

Mushroom-Avocado Eggs on Toast

Two of my favorites – mushroom and avocado – make a stacked sandwich fancy enough for company or a weekend breakfast with the family. —Carol McLaughlin, Papillion, Nebraska

Tangy Cilantro Lime Confetti Salad

I love standout salads that burst with flavor—the kind that make you feel as if you’re splurging without having to eat that piece of chocolate cake. This is one of my very favorites, and everyone I serve it to loves it as well. —Jasey McBurnett, Rock Springs, Wyoming

Coconut Shrimp Chowder

After eating a coconut soup at a Thai restaurant, I added coconut milk in my fish chowder recipe. The fresh, simple ingredients allow the seafood to shine. —Michalene Baskett, Decatur, Georgia

California Burger Wraps

I love the way these fresh flavors blend. It’s a snap to throw these wraps together for a quick, healthy lunch. The burgers can also be served on buns if you like. —Rachelle McCalla, Atlantic, Iowa

Mango Avocado Spring Rolls

As a fan of mangoes and avocados, I love these wraps. You can substitute tortillas for rice paper wrappers, and lettuce or spinach for sprouts. —Gena Stout, Ravenden, Arkansas

Egg-Topped Avocado Toast

We always have avocados on hand, so it’s easy to make this quick breakfast toast for my husband and me. It’s really tasty! —Kallee Krong-McCreery, Escondido, California

Baby Kale Salad with Avocado-Lime Dressing

We pull a bunch of ingredients from our garden when we make this baby kale salad with zucchini and sweet onion. The yogurt dressing layers on big lime flavor. —Suzanna Esther, State College, Pennsylvania

Chipotle Lime Avocado Salad

I use my music to promote a healthy lifestyle, like eating your veggies. This bright salad is loaded with avocado, cucumbers, tomatoes and a little heat factor. —DJ Cavem, Denver, Colorado

Cobb Salad Wraps

A homemade dressing lightens up these refreshing tortilla wraps. The avocado, bacon, blue cheese and tomato deliver the flavors I enjoy most while keeping me on my healthy eating plan.
-Lynne Van Wagenen of Salt Lake City, Utah

Tomato and Avocado Salad

Here’s a cool alternative to guacamole. The slightly tart dressing showcases the garden-fresh flavors of ruby-red tomatoes and ripe avocados. —Taste of Home Test Kitchen

Baked Caesar Chicken

Easy, fast to fix and delicious, this meal maker is a winner! —Kirsten Norgaard, Astoria, Oregon

Balsamic-Salmon Spinach Salad

This spinach salad is really healthy and super fast. It’s an absolute cinch to make after a long workday. —Karen Schlyter, Calgary, Alberta

No-Fuss Avocado Onion Salad

My mother, Nena, grew up in Cuba and learned many styles of cooking. She had a knack for making something incredibly simple taste amazing. This salad is proof. By itself, the dressing is really tart, but add the avocados and onions and it’s the perfect complement. —Marina Castle Kelley, Canyon Country, California

Cumin Rice with Avocado

Cumin, picante sauce and avocado do a terrific job of perking up rice in this any-day side dish. —Margaret Allen, Abingdon, Virginia

Tomato, Avocado and Grilled Corn Salad

With ripe tomatoes, fresh basil and grilled corn, this bright salad tastes just like summertime! —Angela Spengler, Tampa, Florida

Brain Food Smoothie

My grandson refuses fruits and vegetables almost completely. After he and our son moved home, I tried everything to improve his diet. This smoothie was one of the only ways I could sneak him something nutritious, and he loves it! —Sandra Roberts, Dexter, Missouri

Classic Avocado Toast

This is such an easy way to add avocados to your diet. Use healthy multigrain bread and top with sliced radishes and cracked pepper or lime zest, or chipotle peppers and cilantro. You’ll want to make this avocado toast recipe every morning! —Taste of Home Test Kitchen, Milwaukee, Wisconsin

Colorful Avocado Salad

I appreciate the crisp, fresh vegetables and bright colors in this nutritious salad. The avocado adds a delightful creaminess. A friend gave me the idea for this recipe while we were discussing salads. —Bev Lehrman, Jijoca, Brazil

Avocado Scrambled Eggs

Bacon and avocado blend nicely in these special eggs. They’re easy and perfect for breakfast. But I’ll also whip them up after an evening meeting or football game—or any time friends drop by for coffee. —Sundra Hauck, Bogalusa, Louisiana

Salsa Spaghetti Squash

If you want spaghetti, but are eating gluten-free or trying to keep a lid on carbs, there’s always spaghetti squash as a flavorful alternative. Subtly sweet, tender and satisfying, this is one colorful dish. —Clara Coulson Minney, Washington Court House, Ohio

Kale & Bacon Salad with Honey-Horseradish Vinaigrette

Totally scrumptious and packed with nutrition, this salad was my response to friends who asked how they could incorporate kale into their diets without sacrificing taste. It is also wonderful made with collard or mustard greens, prepared in the same fashion as the kale, or with a mix of spinach & arugula or watercress. —Elizabeth Warren, Oklahoma City, Oklahoma

Shrimp Veggie Salad

My family loves to have potluck barbecues during the summer. With several backyard gardens in the family, you can be sure one of us will bring a variation of this classic salad. Add a dash of your favorite hot sauce if you like to turn up the heat! —Karen Goodnature, Lompoc, California

Shrimp Salad with Cilantro Dressing

This pretty salad has such authentic flavor, you’ll think you’re sitting at a beachside cantina in Acapulco. —Heidi Hall, North St. Paul, Minnesota

Caribbean Shrimp & Rice Bowl

I had a similar rice bowl on vacation and re-created this lighter version at home. It takes me back to the islands every time I make it. Try grilling the shrimp for more beachy flavor. —Lauren Katz, Ashburn, Virginia

Popular Videos

ⓘ

Read More

Share on Google Plus