Spicy Tuna Wraps are a delicious and lively dish that combines tender tuna with a kick of heat, all wrapped up in a fresh, crisp tortilla. The flavors come together with a spicy mayo or sauce that adds just the right amount of zing, balanced by cool veggies like crunchy lettuce and maybe some sliced cucumber or avocado. It’s a simple but satisfying meal that feels fresh and exciting with every bite.
I love making these wraps whenever I want something quick but full of flavor. The spice level is easy to adjust depending on how much kick you like—I usually start mild and then add more sriracha or chili flakes for that extra punch. One of my favorite things is how you can easily switch up the veggies or add a squeeze of lime to keep it bright and refreshing.
These wraps are perfect for lunch or a light dinner when you want something that’s tasty and easy to eat on the go. I often serve them with a side of crisp chips or a simple salad. They’re also great when guests come over because everyone can customize their own wrap just the way they like it. Trust me, once you try these spicy tuna wraps, they’ll quickly become a favorite in your kitchen too!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Tuna: Canned tuna is the star here, easy and quick. I prefer chunk light tuna, but albacore is a bit meatier if you want a richer taste. For a lighter option, try canned chicken or chickpeas.
Mayonnaise: This makes the spicy tuna creamy. You can swap it for Greek yogurt or a vegan mayo to keep it lighter or dairy-free.
Sriracha sauce: This adds the spicy kick. If you don’t have sriracha, hot sauce or chili garlic sauce works well. Adjust the amount to match your heat preference.
Wraps: Whole wheat or flour tortillas work great. For gluten-free, use corn tortillas or large lettuce leaves for a fresh twist.
Veggies: Lettuce and cucumber add crunch and freshness. You can add sliced avocado for creaminess, or shredded carrots for a bit of sweetness.
How Can I Roll a Wrap Without It Falling Apart?
Rolling a wrap tightly keeps everything inside and avoids mess. Follow these tips:
- Place fillings in the center, leaving some space at the edges.
- Fold in the sides over the filling first to secure the ends.
- Then, roll from the bottom up, tucking the wrap tightly as you go.
- If you want, warm the tortilla for 10 seconds to make it more flexible.
- Use a toothpick if needed to hold the wrap closed before serving.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Medium mixing bowl – I find this perfect for stirring up the tuna mixture easily.
- Small spoon or spatula – helps you mix everything evenly with less mess.
- Large flat surface – ideal for assembling and rolling the wraps smoothly.
- Sharp knife – makes slicing the wraps cleanly in half without tearing.
- Cutting board – keeps your workspace tidy and protects your counters.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Replace tuna with cooked shrimp or shredded chicken for a different protein twist.
- Add diced avocado or a drizzle of sesame oil for more richness and flavor.
- Mix in chopped herbs like cilantro or green onions for extra freshness.
- Use spicy pickled vegetables or a squeeze of lime for tangy accents that brighten the wrap.
Spicy Tuna Wraps
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Filling:
- 1 (5 oz) can tuna, drained
- 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon sriracha sauce (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
- ¼ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Wrap:
- 2 large whole wheat or flour tortillas
- 1 cup green leaf lettuce, washed and dried
- ½ cucumber, sliced into thin strips
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra spice
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes in total. You’ll spend just a few minutes mixing the spicy tuna filling, assembling the wraps, and then slicing them for easy serving. Quick and perfect for a tasty lunch or light dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Spicy Tuna Filling:
In a medium bowl, combine the drained tuna, mayonnaise, sriracha sauce, lime juice, and garlic powder. Stir everything together until it’s well mixed. Taste it and add salt and pepper as you like. If you want it spicier, feel free to add more sriracha.
2. Lay Out the Wraps and Add Veggies:
Place the tortillas flat on your work surface. In the center of each, put a few leaves of lettuce to start the layers. Then add cucumber slices on top of the lettuce to give your wrap a fresh crunch.
3. Fill and Roll the Wraps:
Divide the spicy tuna mixture between the two tortillas, spreading it evenly over the veggies. Now, fold in the sides of each tortilla and roll it up tightly from the bottom to keep all the filling inside.
4. Slice and Serve:
Cut each wrap in half diagonally for a nice presentation and easier handling. Serve immediately, and if you’d like, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top or on the side for an extra spicy touch.
Can I Use Fresh Tuna Instead of Canned Tuna?
Yes, you can use cooked fresh tuna, but make sure it’s fully cooled and flaked before mixing with the other ingredients. It might change the texture slightly but will taste great!
How Can I Make This Wrap Less Spicy?
Simply reduce or omit the sriracha sauce and skip the red pepper flakes. You can also add a bit more mayonnaise or some plain yogurt to tone down the heat.
Can I Prepare These Wraps Ahead of Time?
Yes! Prepare the spicy tuna filling a few hours ahead and keep it covered in the fridge. Assemble the wraps just before serving to keep the tortillas from getting soggy.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover filling in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. It’s best to keep the wraps unrolled and assemble them fresh when ready to eat.
