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High Protein Tuna Lettuce Kimbap – Light, Fresh & Perfect for Meal Prep

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This high protein tuna and lettuce kimbap is a light yet satisfying Korean-inspired roll that’s perfect for quick meals, lunchboxes, or post-workout fuel. Filled with creamy tuna, crisp lettuce, and tangy pickled radish, then wrapped in seasoned rice and seaweed, this kimbap delivers balanced flavour and texture in every bite. It’s simple, refreshing, and proof that kimbap doesn’t need heavy fillings to be delicious.

Kimbap (김밥) is a staple in Korean home cooking, often enjoyed as a picnic food, lunchbox meal, or quick grab-and-go dish. While traditional versions use beef, ham, or eggs, tuna kimbap has become especially popular for its convenience and high protein content. This version keeps things extra fresh by using crisp lettuce instead of cooked vegetables, creating a clean bite that pairs beautifully with the creamy tuna filling. Tuna provides lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, while lettuce adds crunch without heaviness. For best results, choose good-quality canned tuna, well-drained to avoid soggy rolls, and use fresh, firm lettuce leaves for structure. These rolls are best eaten the same day but can be prepped a few hours ahead for convenience.

Key Ingredients & Their Roles

• Canned tuna → High-protein base with a mild flavour that absorbs seasoning well.
• Mayonnaise & mustard → Add creaminess, tang, and depth to the tuna filling.
• Lettuce leaves → Provide freshness, crunch, and a lighter texture than cooked vegetables.
• Seasoned rice → Acts as the foundation, bringing subtle nutty and savoury notes.
• Pickled radish (danmuji) → Adds sweetness and acidity to balance the creamy tuna.
• Nori (seaweed sheets) → Holds everything together and delivers umami flavour. 


High Protein Tuna Lettuce Kimbap Recipe 

Prep Time: 20 minutes| Cook Time: 0 minutes |Total Time: 20 minutes |Cuisine Type: Korean |Calories (Estimate): ~420 kcal per roll |Serving Size: Makes 4 kimbap rolls

📝 Ingredients

  • 1 can tuna, drained (425 g / 15 oz)
  • 2 Tbsp mayonnaise
  • 1 Tbsp mustard
  • 8 lettuce leaves
  • Pickled radish (danmuji), cut into strips
  • Cooked short-grain rice – about 3 cups (450 g / 1 lb cooked)
  • 4 nori sheets (gim / roasted seaweed)

Rice Seasoning

  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • 1tsp salt
  • 1Tbsp Sesame seeds
  • 1Tbsp Sesame oil

👨‍🍳 Instructions

1️⃣ Prepare the rice

  • Use freshly cooked rice, slightly cooled to warm body temperature (about 40–45°C / 104–113°F).
  • Season with salt, sesame seeds, and sesame oil. Mix gently to avoid crushing the grains. 

2️⃣ Prepare the tuna filling

  • In a bowl, combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, and mustard. 

  • Mix until creamy and evenly combined.

3️⃣ Set up your rolling station

  • Place a nori sheet shiny-side down on a bamboo mat or clean surface.
  • Spread an even layer of rice over the nori, leaving a 2–3 cm (1 inch) gap at the top edge.

4️⃣ Add the fillings

  • Lay 2 lettuce leaves across the centre of the rice.
  • Add a line of tuna mixture on top.
  • Place pickled radish strips evenly along the filling. 

5️⃣ Roll the kimbap

  • Lift the bottom edge and roll tightly, tucking in the filling as you go.
  • Press gently to form a firm roll. 

6️⃣ Finish and slice

  • Lightly brush the outside with sesame oil.
  • Slice into even pieces using a sharp knife.

7️⃣ Serve

  • Serve immediately or pack for later the same day. 

Tips & Ingredient Substitutions

  • Lower fat: Use Greek yoghurt instead of mayonnaise.
  • Extra protein: Add sliced boiled eggs or tofu strips.
  • Gluten-free: Ensure your mustard and pickled radish are gluten-free.
  • More flavour: Add cracked pepper or a pinch of gochugaru to the tuna.
  • Time-saving: Use pre-cooked rice or microwave rice packets.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Can I make tuna kimbap ahead of time?
Yes, it can be made up to 6–8 hours ahead and kept refrigerated.

How do I store leftovers?
Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and store in the fridge. Best eaten the same day.

What can I use instead of tuna?
Canned salmon, shredded chicken, or mashed chickpeas work well.

Can I freeze kimbap?
Freezing is not recommended due to texture changes in rice and lettuce.

Wrap-Up

This high protein tuna and lettuce kimbap is fresh, simple, and incredibly satisfying—perfect for busy days when you still want something nourishing. Give it a try and make it your own.

Leave a comment and tell me what fillings you love in kimbap.
If you enjoyed this recipe, check out my Asian Tuna Salad or Pickled Radish with Beetroot on the blog for another protein-packed meal.

Keywords (키워드)

High protein kimbap, tuna kimbap recipe, easy kimbap at home, healthy Korean roll, tuna rice roll, 참치 김밥, 고단백 김밥, 간단한 김밥 레시피, 다이어트 김밥, 집에서 김밥 만들기


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