Seared tuna lettuce wraps are a vibrant and flavorful dish that’s both healthy and incredibly satisfying. I remember the first time I tried something similar at a little beachside cafe during a trip to Maui. The combination of fresh tuna, sweet mango, and crisp lettuce was pure magic. Now, I’ve recreated that tropical experience at home with my own easy-to-make seared tuna lettuce wraps. This recipe is perfect for a light lunch, a quick dinner, or even a fun appetizer for your next gathering. You’ll love how simple it is to put together and how delightfully fresh it tastes.
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Why You Will Love This seared tuna lettuce wraps Recipe
These seared tuna lettuce wraps are a guaranteed crowd pleaser. They’re quick, easy, and bursting with flavor. The mild tuna pairs perfectly with the sweetness of mango and the crunch of fresh lettuce. Think of it as a deconstructed sushi roll, but without the fuss.
What makes this recipe special is how customizable it is. Feel free to adjust the level of spice, swap out the mango for pineapple, or add your favorite toppings. The possibilities are endless! It’s a healthy and delicious way to enjoy seared tuna, and you can discover even more fresh and flavorful ideas like this on Recipes Charming. Prepare for a fresh and flavorful experience.
Ingredients Needed for This seared tuna lettuce wraps Recipe
Here’s what you’ll need to create these delicious tuna mango wraps:
- For the Tuna:
* 1 pound sushi-grade tuna steak, cut into 1/2-inch thick pieces
* 1 tablespoon sesame oil
* 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
* 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
* 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
* 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Mango Salsa:
* 1 ripe mango, diced
* 1/4 red onion, finely diced
* 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
* 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
* Juice of 1 lime
* Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- For the Lettuce Wraps:
* 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated and washed
* Optional toppings: avocado slices, sesame seeds, sriracha mayo
How to Make This seared tuna lettuce wraps Recipe
Follow these simple steps to make the perfect seared tuna lettuce wraps at home!
- Prepare the Tuna: In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season the tuna with salt and pepper.
- Sear the Tuna: Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the tuna and sear for about 30-60 seconds per side, depending on the thickness, until the outside is seared but the inside remains rare. You want a nice crust, but don’t overcook it!
- Slice the Tuna: Remove the tuna from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it thinly against the grain.
- Make the Mango Salsa: In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Lettuce Wraps: Place a lettuce leaf on a plate. Add a few slices of seared tuna, a spoonful of mango salsa, and any optional toppings like avocado slices or a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
- Serve Immediately: These seared tuna lettuce wraps are best enjoyed fresh!
How to Serve This seared tuna lettuce wraps Recipe
These vibrant wraps are perfect as a light lunch, a refreshing appetizer, or a quick and healthy dinner. Serve them immediately after assembling to maintain the freshness of the lettuce and the tuna.
For a complete meal, consider pairing them with a side of edamame or a light Asian-inspired salad. The sweetness of the mango salsa complements the savory tuna beautifully but feels free to incorporate other fruits to diversify the tuna mango wraps.
Plating can be as simple as arranging the lettuce wraps on a platter with the extra toppings in small bowls for guests to customize their own. A sprinkle of sesame seeds adds a nice finishing touch.
How to Store This seared tuna lettuce wraps Recipe
Ideally, seared tuna lettuce wraps are best enjoyed immediately. However, if you have leftovers, store the components separately to prevent the lettuce from becoming soggy.
- Refrigeration: Store the seared tuna and mango salsa in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours.
- Freezing: Freezing is not recommended for the lettuce or the fresh salsa, as they will lose their texture. You could technically freeze the seared tuna, but it’s best enjoyed fresh.
- Reheating: The tuna is best served cold or at room temperature. Avoid reheating, as it can overcook and become dry.
Tips to Make This seared tuna lettuce wraps Recipe
- Tuna Quality: Using sushi-grade tuna is crucial for this recipe, as the tuna is served rare. Ensure the tuna is fresh and of high quality.
- Mango Ripeness: Choose a ripe but firm mango for the salsa. It should be sweet and juicy, but not mushy.
- Don’t Overcook the Tuna: The key to perfect seared tuna is to sear it quickly over high heat, leaving the inside rare. Overcooked tuna will be dry and tough.
- Spice It Up: If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tuna marinade or use a spicier chili in the mango salsa.
Helpful Notes for This seared tuna lettuce wraps Recipe
- Sushi Grade Tuna: Sushi grade tuna is essential for ensuring food safety when consuming the tuna raw or rare. Purchase from a reputable fishmonger.
- Sesame Oil: Toasted sesame oil adds a richer flavor, but regular sesame oil works just fine.
- Tamari: Tamari is a gluten-free alternative to soy sauce and works perfectly in this recipe.
- Lettuce Variety: Butter lettuce provides the ideal cup shape for the wraps, but other lettuce varieties like romaine or iceberg can be used if preferred.
Variation of This seared tuna lettuce wraps Recipe
- Spicy Tuna Wraps: Add a generous dollop of sriracha mayo to the wraps for a spicy kick.
- Avocado Tuna Wraps: Layer slices of avocado in the wraps for added creaminess.
- Pineapple Salsa: Substitute the mango with diced pineapple for a different tropical twist.
- Wasabi Tuna Wraps: Mix a small amount of wasabi paste into the soy sauce marinade for a zesty flavor.
What are the benefits of using lettuce wraps instead of traditional tortillas?
Lettuce wraps offer a lighter and healthier alternative to tortillas. They are naturally low in carbohydrates and calories, making them a great option for those watching their weight or following a low-carb diet. They also add a refreshing crispness to the dish.
How do I prevent the seared tuna from becoming overcooked?
The key to perfectly seared tuna is to use high heat and cook it very quickly. Aim for about 30-60 seconds per side, depending on the thickness of the tuna steak. The center should still be slightly pink and rare.
What are some good substitutions for mango in seared tuna lettuce wraps?
If you don’t have mango on hand, you can substitute it with other sweet and tangy fruits like pineapple, papaya, or even diced peaches. These fruits will provide a similar tropical flavor that complements the tuna perfectly.
Can I prepare the components of the seared tuna lettuce wraps in advance?
Yes, you can definitely prepare the components ahead of time. You can sear the tuna and slice the vegetables and mango. Assemble the wraps just before serving to prevent the lettuce from wilting.
What dipping sauce goes well with seared tuna lettuce wraps?
A variety of dipping sauces complement seared tuna lettuce wraps. Popular options include sriracha mayo, wasabi mayo, ponzu sauce, or a simple mixture of soy sauce, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
Conclusion
In conclusion, these seared tuna lettuce wraps are the perfect balance of freshness, flavor, and simplicity. Whether you serve them as a light lunch, a healthy dinner, or a crowd-pleasing appetizer, they bring a tropical touch to your table while staying wholesome and delicious.
For more fresh meal ideas, healthy recipes, and creative food inspiration, be sure to visit my Pinterest! You’ll find plenty of easy dishes and vibrant flavors to elevate your everyday cooking.
Seared Tuna Lettuce Wraps: Easy Recipe + Mango Twist
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
These seared tuna lettuce wraps are a vibrant and healthy dish, featuring fresh sushi-grade tuna, sweet mango salsa, and crisp butter lettuce. A quick and easy recipe perfect for lunch or dinner!
Ingredients
- 1 pound sushi-grade tuna steak, cut into 1/2-inch thick pieces
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
- 1 teaspoon rice vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon ginger, grated
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 ripe mango, diced
- 1/4 red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup cilantro, chopped
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (optional)
- Juice of 1 lime
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 head butter lettuce, leaves separated and washed
- Optional toppings: avocado slices, sesame seeds, sriracha mayo
Instructions
- 1. In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, ginger, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season the tuna with salt and pepper.
- 2. Heat a large skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the tuna and sear for about 30-60 seconds per side, depending on the thickness, until the outside is seared but the inside remains rare.
- 3. Remove the tuna from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice it thinly against the grain.
- 4. In a medium bowl, combine the diced mango, red onion, cilantro, jalapeño (if using), and lime juice. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- 5. Place a lettuce leaf on a plate. Add a few slices of seared tuna, a spoonful of mango salsa, and any optional toppings like avocado slices or a drizzle of sriracha mayo.
- 6. Serve immediately.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 5 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 15g
- Sodium: 300mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: tuna, lettuce wraps, healthy, quick, easy, mango, sushi grade