Tuna lettuce wraps are a delightful and healthy dish that brings a burst of flavor to any meal. As a person who loves quick, nutritious snacks, I’ve found these wraps to be a favorite in my household. They’re not just easy to prepare, but they also pack a punch when it comes to satisfying your cravings. The combination of creamy tuna salad nestled in crisp lettuce leaves makes for a refreshing bite that’s perfect for lunch or even a light dinner.
What sets these wraps apart is their versatility. You can enjoy them as a low-carb option, satisfying both your hunger and your taste buds. They make a great appetizer for gatherings or a fun lunch on the go, perfect for anyone looking to eat healthy without sacrificing flavor.
Why you’ll love tuna lettuce wraps
- Quick and easy to prepare in about 15 minutes.
- Refreshingly light and packed with protein.
- Versatile for meal prep or a simple snack.
- Customizable to suit your taste preferences.
- Great for low-carb and gluten-free diets.
What ingredients do I need for tuna lettuce wraps?
- Butter lettuce or Bibb lettuce
- 10 oz canned albacore tuna (2 5oz cans)
- 1/3 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp finely diced celery
- 2 tbsp finely diced red onion, rinsed in cold water
- 1 tsp whole grain mustard
- 1 tsp chopped fresh parsley
- Salt
- Pepper
Ingredient notes & swaps
- Lettuce: Use romaine or other leafy greens if preferred.
- Tuna: Substitute with canned chicken for a different flavor.
- Mayo: Greek yogurt can replace mayo for a lighter version.
How do I make tuna lettuce wraps step-by-step?
Making these wraps is a breeze. First, drain the tuna cans and add the tuna to a large bowl. Smash with a fork to break up any large chunks. Then, mix in the mayo, celery, red onion, whole grain mustard, and fresh parsley. Combine everything well and season it with salt and pepper to taste.
Next, scoop 1-2 large portions of the tuna salad into the center of the butter lettuce leaves, allowing you to make varying amounts of wraps depending on your preference. For an extra touch, sprinkle fresh parsley, salt, and pepper on top. Enjoy your wraps immediately!
- Drain tuna and add to a bowl.
- Smash with a fork to break up.
- Add mayo, celery, red onion, mustard, and parsley.
- Mix well, then season with salt and pepper.
- Scoop into lettuce leaves and garnish as desired.
Pro Tip: Rinsing the red onion in cold water minimizes the sharp flavor and makes it more palatable.
How should I serve it?
These tuna lettuce wraps are best served fresh. Pair them with a side of fresh fruit or vegetable sticks for a wholesome meal. You can serve them on a platter for gatherings, garnishing with extra parsley or lemon wedges for a vibrant presentation.
Can I make it ahead? How do I store and reheat it?
You can prepare the tuna salad in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. However, it’s best to keep the salad separate from the lettuce leaves until you’re ready to serve, ensuring the lettuce stays crisp and fresh.
How do I fix common issues?
If your tuna salad turns out too dry, try adding a bit more mayo or a splash of lemon juice to moisten it. For an overly salty mixture, add more diced celery or onion to help balance the flavor. If it’s bland, incorporate additional mustard or herbs for a flavor boost.
What variations can I try?
Feel free to experiment with the recipe! You can add diced avocado for creaminess, swap the parsley for dill for a fresh twist, or mix in some shredded carrots for added crunch. You can also try different types of canned fish, like salmon or chicken.
FAQs
Can I use other types of lettuce?
Yes, you can use any leafy greens you like! Romaine or even collard greens can work well for this wrap.
How can I make this more filling?
Consider adding a slice of cheese or more vegetables into the tuna mix, like chopped bell peppers or cucumbers, to increase the bulk.
Can these wraps be frozen?
While you can freeze the tuna salad mixture, it’s best to avoid freezing the lettuce, as it won’t hold up well once thawed.
Tuna lettuce wraps are not only quick to prepare but make for a light, satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy. They’re a staple in my kitchen for their delicious taste and healthy ingredients!
Tuna Lettuce Wraps
Ingredients
Method
- Drain the tuna cans and add the tuna to a large bowl.
- Smash with a fork to break up any large chunks.
- Mix in the mayo, celery, red onion, whole grain mustard, and fresh parsley.
- Combine everything well and season it with salt and pepper to taste.
- Scoop 1-2 large portions of the tuna salad into the center of the butter lettuce leaves.
- Sprinkle fresh parsley, salt, and pepper on top if desired.
- Enjoy your wraps immediately!