Looking for a light, refreshing, and protein-packed meal that doesn’t compromise on flavor? The Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe is a perfect option for anyone seeking a healthy and satisfying dish that’s quick to prepare. This low-carb, gluten-free meal is a fantastic alternative to sandwiches or wraps made with bread, making it ideal for keto, paleo, or Whole30 diets. Whether you’re planning a quick lunch, a post-workout meal, or a simple weeknight dinner, these lettuce wraps provide nourishment without the extra carbs or calories. Crisp lettuce leaves cradle a flavorful tuna salad made with wholesome ingredients, providing a crunchy, creamy, and delicious experience in every bite.
Nutrition (Per Serving)
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Calories: 210 kcal
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Protein: 22g
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Fat: 13g
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Carbohydrates: 4g
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Fiber: 1g
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Sugar: 2g
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Sodium: 420mg
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Cholesterol: 40mg
Note: Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on exact ingredients used.
Prep Time, Cook Time & Other Details
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Active Time: 10 minutes
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Resting Time: 5 minutes (optional, for flavors to meld)
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Total Time: 15–20 minutes
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Cuisine: American
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Course: Lunch, Dinner, Appetizer
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Servings: 4 servings
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Calories (Per Serving): 210 kcal
Equipment Needed
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Mixing bowl
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Fork or spoon (for mixing)
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Knife and cutting board
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Measuring spoons
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Can opener (if using canned tuna)
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Serving plate or platter
Ingredients
For the Tuna Salad:
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2 cans (5 oz each) tuna, packed in water, drained
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1/4 cup mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt for a lighter option)
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1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
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1 tablespoon lemon juice (freshly squeezed)
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1/4 cup finely chopped red onion
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1/4 cup diced celery
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1 tablespoon chopped pickles or relish (optional)
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1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
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Salt and black pepper to taste
For the Lettuce Wraps:
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1 head of romaine, iceberg, or butter lettuce (about 12 large leaves)
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Optional toppings: sliced avocado, cherry tomatoes, cucumber slices, shredded carrots, or sprouts
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Tuna Salad
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In a medium mixing bowl, add the drained tuna and break it apart with a fork.
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Add the mayonnaise (or Greek yogurt), Dijon mustard, and lemon juice. Mix until well combined.
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Stir in the chopped red onion, celery, parsley, and pickles (if using).
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Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
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Mix all ingredients thoroughly until creamy and evenly distributed.
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Set aside for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld (optional but recommended).
Step 2: Prepare the Lettuce Wraps
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Gently wash and pat dry the lettuce leaves. Be careful not to tear them; these will act as your wraps.
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Lay the lettuce leaves flat on a serving platter or cutting board.
Step 3: Assemble the Wraps
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Spoon 2–3 tablespoons of tuna salad into the center of each lettuce leaf.
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Add any optional toppings like sliced avocado or shredded carrots for added flavor and texture.
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Fold the lettuce leaf around the filling like a taco or burrito.
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Serve immediately or chill for 5–10 minutes for a cool and crisp bite.
Tips and Variations
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Add crunch: Toss in diced apples, walnuts, or sunflower seeds for a unique texture.
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Spice it up: Add a dash of hot sauce, chopped jalapeños, or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
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Make it dairy-free: Use avocado or a vegan mayo alternative.
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Meal prep-friendly: Make the tuna salad in advance and store in the fridge for up to 3 days. Assemble wraps just before eating.
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Protein boost: Mix in chopped hard-boiled eggs or a spoonful of cottage cheese.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
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Low-carb and gluten-free: Perfect for anyone watching their carbohydrate intake.
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Quick and easy: From fridge to table in under 20 minutes.
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Healthy fats and lean protein: Keeps you full and energized.
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Customizable: Make it your own with endless topping and ingredient variations.
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Family-friendly: Even kids love assembling their own wraps!
Storage Tips
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Tuna Salad: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Lettuce Leaves: Store washed and dried leaves wrapped in paper towels in a zip-top bag for up to 5 days.
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Assembled Wraps: Best enjoyed immediately, but can be stored in the fridge for a few hours if packed tightly and wrapped in parchment paper.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these wraps with:
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A side of fruit salad
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Sweet potato fries
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A bowl of soup or bone broth
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A refreshing iced tea or infused water
They’re also perfect as:
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A party appetizer or light starter
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A healthy lunchbox addition
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A grab-and-go snack for busy days
Conclusion
The Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps Recipe is a simple yet nutritious meal that delivers on both taste and convenience. It’s everything you want in a wholesome dish—light, flavorful, customizable, and easy to prepare. Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner, reduce carbs, or simply want a new spin on classic tuna salad, these lettuce wraps are sure to become a go-to favorite. Give them a try for your next meal and enjoy a crisp, refreshing twist on a timeless comfort food.

I am Ashley Doyle, Senior Specialist in Food & Policy at The Humane Society of the United States and editor at airfryermama.com. I am passionate about transforming our global food system by promoting delicious, climate-friendly, plant-based foods. After transitioning from law to food and public policy, I now work with major food service companies to develop plant-based initiatives and animal welfare policies. My goal is to drive institutional change to combat climate change and improve our food system.