Asian Tuna Salad – Creamy, Spicy & Crunchy! | Easy High-Protein Meal in 10 Minutes

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Looking for a quick, protein-packed salad with bold Asian flavors? This Asian Tuna Salad is your new go-to! It’s creamy, spicy, and full of umami goodness — perfect for spreading on crackers, stuffing in lettuce wraps, or enjoying straight from the bowl. Made with tuna, sesame oil, soy sauce, and sriracha, it’s a delicious mix of freshness and heat that comes together in just minutes.

This salad takes inspiration from the Korean-Japanese fusion style of mixing tuna with roasted seaweed and sesame — a flavor combination that instantly feels comforting yet exciting. It’s the kind of dish you’ll find at casual Korean cafΓ©s or packed in lunchboxes for a light yet satisfying meal. The creamy mayo and nutty sesame oil balance the savory soy sauce and spicy sriracha, creating layers of flavor that keep every bite interesting. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also high in protein and omega-3s from the tuna — great for a quick post-workout meal or healthy lunch. You can even make it ahead, store it in the fridge for up to 3 days, and enjoy it whenever you need a flavorful pick-me-up.

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

  • Tuna → The protein base of the dish; rich, hearty, and full of umami. Use quality canned tuna in oil or spring water.
  • Carrot → Adds crunch, color, and a subtle sweetness that balances the savory sauce.
  • Spring Onion → Brings freshness and mild sharpness that lifts the flavors.
  • Pickled Cucumber → Adds a tangy bite and balances the richness of mayo and sesame oil.
  • Roasted Seaweed (Gim/Nori) → Brings a deep, toasty umami flavor typical of Korean-inspired salads.
  • Sesame Seeds → Add crunch and enhance the nutty aroma.
  • Mayonnaise → Creates creaminess while tying all the ingredients together.
  • Soy Sauce → The salty umami backbone of the dressing.
  • Olive Oil → Adds smoothness and depth to the flavor.
  • Sriracha Sauce → Brings heat and tang, giving it a bold Asian twist.
  • Sesame Oil → Enhances aroma with its nutty and toasty character.
  • Black Pepper → Adds subtle spice and balances the richness.


Asian Tuna Salad Recipe Details

πŸ“Œ Prep Time: 10 minutes| Cook Time: 0 minutes |  Total Time: 10 minutes | Cuisine Type: Asian Fusion / Korean-Inspired |  Calories (Estimate): ~280 kcal per serving | Serving Size: 3–4 servings

πŸ“ Ingredients

  • 1 can (425 g / 15 oz) tuna, drained
  • 1 carrot, grated
  • ¼ cup (25 g) spring onion, diced
  • 2 tbsp (30 g) pickled cucumber, diced
  • 1 sheet roasted seaweed (nori), crushed
  • 1 tsp sesame seeds
  • 2 tbsp (30 g) mayonnaise
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) soy sauce
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) olive oil
  • 1 tbsp (15 ml) sriracha sauce
  • 1 tsp (5 ml) sesame oil
  • A pinch of black pepper

πŸ‘¨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare Ingredients:
Drain tuna well to remove excess liquid. Grate carrot, dice spring onion and pickled cucumber, and crush roasted seaweed. 




2️⃣ Combine Everything:
In a large mixing bowl, add tuna, grated carrot, spring onion, and diced pickled cucumber.

3️⃣ Add Dressing:
Pour mayonnaise, soy sauce, olive oil, sriracha sauce, sesame oil, and black pepper directly over the tuna mixture. Mix gently until everything is well coated.

4️⃣ Add the Finishing Touches:
Sprinkle in crushed seaweed and sesame seeds. Mix again lightly to combine. 



5️⃣ Serve:
Enjoy with crackers, wrap in lettuce leaves, or serve over rice for a quick meal. 



🧊 Storage Tip: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Tips & Ingredient Substitutions

✔ Vegan Option: Replace tuna with mashed chickpeas or tofu. Use vegan mayo.
✔ Low-sodium option: Use low-salt soy sauce and skip added salt.
✔ Extra Crunch: Add sliced cucumber or shredded cabbage.
✔ More Heat: Add chili flakes or extra sriracha.
✔ Meal Prep Tip: Make a double batch — it tastes even better the next day once the flavors meld!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Section)

Q1: Can I make this Asian tuna salad ahead of time?
Yes! Store it in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. Stir before serving to refresh the texture.

Q2: What can I use instead of tuna?
You can substitute with cooked chicken breast, salmon, or even mashed chickpeas for a vegetarian option.

Q3: How can I serve this salad?
Serve with crackers, wrap in lettuce leaves, or spoon it over rice or noodles for a satisfying meal.

Q4: Can I use fresh cucumber instead of pickled?
Yes, but add a splash of rice vinegar or lemon juice for a bit of tang.

Q5: Is it spicy?
It has a mild kick from sriracha, but you can adjust the spice level to your liking.

Wrap-Up 

This Asian Tuna Salad is proof that simple ingredients can create bold, satisfying flavors in minutes. It’s refreshing, creamy, and just the right amount of spicy — perfect for busy weekdays or lazy weekends. 🌿

πŸ’¬ Have you tried an Asian twist on tuna salad before? Share your version or ideas in the comments below!
πŸ‘‰ Try next: Tuna Lettuce Bibimbap for another light yet flavorful meal.

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