Spicy Canned Tuna Bowl
This pantry-friendly Spicy Canned Tuna Bowl offers a quick, creamy, and satisfying lunch or snack. It's an affordable and delicious alternative to fresh fish, packed with flavor.
For 1 serving
Prepare your ingredients: Thoroughly drain the canned tuna, ensuring no excess liquid remains. Thinly slice the scallion, separating the white and green parts.
Combine the base: In a medium mixing bowl, add the drained tuna and the cooked rice. Break up any large chunks of tuna with a fork.
Whisk the sauce: In a small separate bowl, combine the mayonnaise, soy sauce, sriracha (start with 1 teaspoon and adjust to your spice preference), toasted sesame oil, and rice vinegar. Whisk until the sauce is smooth and well combined.
Dress the bowl: Pour the prepared sauce over the tuna and rice mixture in the medium bowl.
Mix thoroughly: Using a fork or spoon, gently but thoroughly mix all the ingredients until the tuna and rice are evenly coated with the creamy, spicy sauce. Ensure no dry spots remain.
Add aromatics: Fold in most of the thinly sliced scallions, reserving a small pinch for garnish.
Garnish and serve: Transfer the spicy tuna bowl to your serving dish. Garnish with the reserved scallions and toasted sesame seeds, if using. Serve immediately with fresh cucumber slices and roasted seaweed snacks on the side for scooping.
Enjoy: For best flavor, consume immediately. The bowl can be gently reheated if desired, though it's also delicious cold.
What to keep in mind.
4 tips from the recipe — small details that make a real difference to the final dish.
- 1Rice Temperature Matters: While delicious with cold leftover rice, using warm, freshly cooked rice can enhance the overall texture and help the sauce meld more seamlessly.
- 2Tuna Quality: Opt for high-quality canned tuna, preferably packed in olive oil, for a richer flavor and better texture. If using tuna in water, ensure it's very well drained.
- 3Customize Your Spice: Sriracha is key, but feel free to adjust the amount. For more heat, add a dash of chili flakes. For less, reduce sriracha or add a touch more mayo.
- 4Meal Prep Friendly: Prepare the tuna mixture ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Keep the rice separate and combine just before serving for the best texture.
Adapt it for your goals.
Protein Swap
Substitute canned tuna with canned salmon, shredded cooked chicken, or even mashed chickpeas for a vegetarian option. Adjust seasoning as needed.
Veggie BoostVeggie Boost
Stir in finely diced avocado, edamame, corn, or shredded carrots for added texture, nutrients, and color. A sprinkle of kimchi can also add a fermented kick.
Serving StyleServing Style
Instead of a bowl, serve the mixture in lettuce cups for a low-carb option, spread it on rice crackers, or roll it into nori sheets for a deconstructed sushi experience.
Why this is on our healthy list.
Rich in Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Canned tuna is an excellent source of Omega-3s, which are beneficial for heart health, brain function, and reducing inflammation.
Quick Protein Source
Tuna provides a significant amount of lean protein, essential for muscle repair, satiety, and overall body function, making this a satisfying meal.
Pantry-Friendly Nutrients
This recipe utilizes readily available pantry staples, making healthy eating accessible and convenient even on busy days.
Frequently asked questions
Absolutely! Brown rice is a great whole-grain alternative that will add more fiber and a nuttier flavor to your bowl. Ensure it's cooked and cooled before mixing.
