Simple Tuna Salad Lettuce Wrap Lunch

Highlighted under: Quick & Easy

A quick and healthy lunch option, these simple tuna salad lettuce wraps are perfect for a light meal or snack.

Holly James

Created by

Holly James

Last updated on 2026-01-02T01:04:12.270Z

This Simple Tuna Salad Lettuce Wrap Lunch is a delightful and nutritious way to enjoy tuna without the extra calories from bread. It's packed with protein and flavor, making it a great option for a busy day.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Fresh, crisp lettuce enhances the flavors of the tuna salad
  • Quick to prepare, perfect for busy lunch breaks
  • Healthy and low-carb alternative to traditional sandwiches

The Benefits of Tuna Salad

Tuna salad is a versatile dish that not only tastes great but is also packed with nutrients. Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, making it a fantastic option for those looking to maintain muscle mass or support their weight loss goals. It is also rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health and brain function. By combining tuna with fresh vegetables and light condiments, you create a dish that is filling yet low in calories.

In addition to its health benefits, tuna salad is incredibly easy to customize. You can adjust the ingredients based on your dietary preferences or what's available in your kitchen. For instance, you can swap out mayonnaise for Greek yogurt for a lighter option, or add chopped pickles for an extra crunch. This flexibility ensures that you can enjoy tuna salad in various ways while still adhering to your nutritional goals.

Perfect for Meal Prep

One of the best aspects of this tuna salad lettuce wrap recipe is its suitability for meal prep. You can prepare the tuna salad in advance and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. This makes it an ideal choice for busy individuals or families who want to enjoy healthy home-cooked meals without spending too much time in the kitchen during the week.

Simply assemble the wraps when you're ready to eat to keep the lettuce crisp and fresh. This not only saves time during hectic lunch hours but also helps you avoid the temptation of unhealthy takeout options. Plus, the vibrant colors and textures of the lettuce wraps make your meal visually appealing, enhancing your overall dining experience.

Variations to Try

While this simple tuna salad recipe is delicious as is, feel free to experiment with different flavors and ingredients. For a Mediterranean twist, consider adding chopped olives, feta cheese, or sun-dried tomatoes. Alternatively, for a touch of sweetness, you can mix in diced apples or grapes. These additions can elevate your tuna salad, making it even more exciting and flavorful.

If you're looking for a spicy kick, add a splash of hot sauce or some diced jalapeños. You can also switch up the lettuce type for your wraps, using kale or collard greens for a heartier option. The possibilities are endless, and each variation can provide a new taste experience, keeping your lunches interesting and satisfying.

Ingredients

Tuna Salad

  • 1 can of tuna, drained
  • 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  • 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  • 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Wraps

  • 4 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce)
  • Cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)

Combine the ingredients in a bowl for a delicious tuna salad!

Instructions

Prepare the Tuna Salad

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, chopped red onion, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Assemble the Wraps

Take a lettuce leaf and spoon a generous amount of the tuna salad onto the center. Fold the sides of the lettuce over the filling and roll up tightly. Repeat with the remaining lettuce leaves and tuna salad.

Serve

Optional: Garnish with cherry tomatoes. Enjoy your fresh tuna salad lettuce wraps!

These wraps are best enjoyed immediately but can also be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours.

Storage Tips

To ensure your tuna salad stays fresh, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It's best consumed within three days, so make sure to keep an eye on the date. If you're preparing the salad in advance, consider keeping the lettuce separate until you're ready to eat. This will prevent the leaves from wilting and maintain their crispness.

If you have leftovers, you can also use the tuna salad as a filling for whole-grain wraps or pita bread. This allows for a quick and easy meal option without compromising on flavor or nutrition.

Serving Suggestions

These tuna salad lettuce wraps can be served as a light lunch or snack, but they also make a great appetizer for gatherings. Consider serving them on a platter with a side of your favorite dipping sauce, such as a tangy yogurt-based dip or a spicy sriracha mayo.

For a complete meal, pair the wraps with a side of fresh fruit or a light soup. This balance of protein, healthy fats, and carbohydrates will keep you satisfied and energized throughout the day.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use fresh tuna instead of canned?

Yes, you can use fresh cooked tuna, but the preparation time will increase.

→ How long can I store the tuna salad?

The tuna salad can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ What other vegetables can I add?

You can add diced bell peppers, carrots, or even corn for extra crunch.

→ Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, using lettuce instead of bread makes this recipe gluten-free.

Simple Tuna Salad Lettuce Wrap Lunch

A quick and healthy lunch option, these simple tuna salad lettuce wraps are perfect for a light meal or snack.

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration0 minutes
Overall Time10 minutes

Created by: Holly James

Recipe Type: Quick & Easy

Skill Level: Easy

Final Quantity: 2 servings

What You'll Need

Tuna Salad

  1. 1 can of tuna, drained
  2. 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
  3. 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
  4. 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
  5. 2 tablespoons red onion, finely chopped
  6. Salt and pepper to taste
  7. 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Wraps

  1. 4 large lettuce leaves (such as romaine or butter lettuce)
  2. Cherry tomatoes for garnish (optional)

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a mixing bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, Dijon mustard, chopped celery, chopped red onion, salt, pepper, and lemon juice. Mix well until all ingredients are incorporated.

Step 02

Take a lettuce leaf and spoon a generous amount of the tuna salad onto the center. Fold the sides of the lettuce over the filling and roll up tightly. Repeat with the remaining lettuce leaves and tuna salad.

Step 03

Optional: Garnish with cherry tomatoes. Enjoy your fresh tuna salad lettuce wraps!

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 250 kcal
  • Total Fat: 15g
  • Saturated Fat: 2g
  • Cholesterol: 40mg
  • Sodium: 300mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Dietary Fiber: 2g
  • Sugars: 1g
  • Protein: 22g