A light and flavorful appetizer or light meal combining tuna, fresh herbs, crisp vegetables, and a spicy mayo drizzle all wrapped in cool lettuce leaves. This Thai-inspired dish comes together in minutes and delivers a fresh, spicy bite every time.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, bold, and incredibly fresh. The combination of spicy, tangy, and savory flavors pairs perfectly with the crispness of the lettuce. It’s a no-cook option that works as both a starter and a main dish, and the mix of Thai-inspired ingredients adds a unique, exciting twist. I enjoy how light it feels while still being satisfying.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Spicy Mayo:

• 2 tablespoons Sriracha sauce

• 2 teaspoons mayonnaise

• 1 teaspoon Asian red chili paste (sambal)

Lettuce Wraps:

• 3 (5-ounce) cans solid white albacore tuna in water, drained

• ½ cup chopped fresh cilantro

• ¼ cup chopped Thai basil

• ¼ cup red bell pepper, diced

• ¼ cup red onion, diced

• 1 medium carrot, shredded

• 6 green onions, chopped (divided)

• 1 medium jalapeño pepper, seeded and minced

• 4 teaspoons sesame oil

• 3 teaspoons Asian red chili paste (sambal)

• 2 teaspoons toasted sesame seeds

• 2 teaspoons sugar

• 1 teaspoon salt

• ¼ teaspoon black pepper

• 1 medium lime, juiced

• 1 clove garlic, minced

• 3 cups gourmet salad greens

• (Optional) 1 teaspoon chopped fresh cilantro

• (Optional) 1 teaspoon chopped Thai basil

Directions

1. In a small bowl, mix together Sriracha, mayonnaise, and sambal to create the spicy mayo. Refrigerate until needed.

2. In a large bowl, break the drained tuna into large chunks. Add cilantro, basil, bell pepper, red onion, carrot, two-thirds of the green onions, and the jalapeño. Gently combine without mashing the tuna.

3. In a separate bowl, whisk together sesame oil, sambal, sesame seeds, sugar, salt, black pepper, lime juice, and garlic.

4. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and stir gently until well coated.

5. Spoon the tuna mixture into lettuce leaves. Drizzle with spicy mayo.

6. Garnish with the remaining green onions and optional fresh herbs. Serve immediately.

Servings And Timing

• Servings: 8 lettuce wraps

• Prep Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 20 minutes

If I want to serve this as a meal, I usually double the tuna mixture or pair it with extra greens or a light side dish.

Variations

• I sometimes use Thai chili peppers instead of jalapeños for more intense heat.

• I swap in canned salmon or cooked shrimp to change up the protein.

• I’ve used romaine or iceberg lettuce when butter lettuce isn’t available.

• I like to add thin cucumber slices or fresh mango for extra crunch or sweetness.

• For a lighter version, I use Greek yogurt instead of mayonnaise in the spicy mayo.

Storage/Reheating

These wraps taste best fresh, but if I have leftovers:

• I store the tuna mixture separately in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.

• I keep the spicy mayo in a small container to prevent sogginess.

• I reassemble the wraps with fresh lettuce just before serving.

• I don’t recommend reheating, as the herbs and vegetables lose their texture and flavor.

FAQs

How Can I Make These Vegetarian Or Vegan?

I replace the tuna with mashed chickpeas or crumbled tofu and use vegan mayo for the spicy mayo.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead Of Time?

Yes, I prepare the tuna mixture and mayo in advance and store them in the fridge. I assemble the wraps right before eating to keep the lettuce crisp.

What Type Of Lettuce Works Best?

I usually use butter lettuce or Boston lettuce because the leaves are soft and easy to wrap. Romaine or iceberg also works in a pinch.

How Spicy Is This Dish?

It has a moderate heat level from the sambal and jalapeño. I adjust the amount of chili paste or omit the jalapeño for a milder version.

Can I Double Or Halve The Recipe?

Yes, I often scale the recipe up or down depending on how many people I’m serving. I just make sure to adjust the seasoning to taste.

Conclusion

These Thai spicy tuna lettuce wraps are one of my go-to dishes when I want something quick, healthy, and full of flavor. The combination of spicy mayo, fresh herbs, and crunchy vegetables makes every bite exciting. Whether I’m serving them to guests or enjoying them solo, they always hit the spot.