If you’re dreaming of a fresh, fast meal that bursts with flavor and feels light yet totally satisfying, you’ll absolutely fall for Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps with Lemon, Dill & Black Pepper Mayo. This dish is all about the joys of crisp lettuce, tender tuna, zingy lemon, and a creamy, herb-flecked mayo that ties everything together into irresistible handheld bites. Whether you’re prepping a lively lunch or a breezy no-cook dinner, the Dill & Black Pepper Mayo makes this healthy classic an instant favorite.

Dill & Black Pepper Mayo Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of these wraps is in their simplicity: a handful of everyday ingredients come together to create something bright and satisfying. Each has a purpose, whether for crunch, flavor, creaminess, or vibrant color.

Tuna (2 cans packed in water, drained): Opting for tuna in water keeps the salad light and lets the flavors of the mayo, dill, and lemon really shine.
Mayonnaise (1/3 cup): The creamy backbone of the Dill & Black Pepper Mayo, binding all the flavors and giving silky texture to the filling.
Fresh Lemon Juice (1 tablespoon): Adds vibrant acidity that lifts and brightens the overall taste.
Lemon Zest (1 teaspoon): Packs a punch of citrus aroma and flavor; don’t skip zest for maximum zing.
Fresh Dill, chopped (1 tablespoon) or Dried Dill (1 teaspoon): This herb delivers a signature summery freshness and pairs beautifully with both tuna and lemon.
Freshly Ground Black Pepper (1/2 teaspoon): Provides gentle heat and aromatics, giving the mayo its signature character.
Salt (1/4 teaspoon): Enhances every other ingredient; adjust to taste if needed.
Celery, finely diced (1 stalk): Brings crunch and a subtle, clean flavor, balancing the creamy filling.
Red Onion, finely diced (1/4 cup): Adds color and a mild, sweet sharpness to the mix.
Large Lettuce Leaves (8, romaine, iceberg, or butter): These act as crisp, cool wraps and let you enjoy the filling without bread or tortillas.
Optional Garnish: Extra Dill and Lemon Wedges: Use these for a burst of fresh color and fragrance just before serving.

How to Make Dill & Black Pepper Mayo

Step 1: Mix the Dill & Black Pepper Mayo Base

Start by grabbing a medium mixing bowl. Into it, scoop the mayonnaise and then add the fresh lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped dill, black pepper, and salt. Whisk these together until your Dill & Black Pepper Mayo is creamy, speckled, and fragrant. The aromas alone will make your mouth water! This flavor-packed mayo is what transforms a simple tuna salad into something special.

Step 2: Add Crunchy Veggies

Once your Dill & Black Pepper Mayo is ready, stir in the finely diced celery and red onion. These veggies don’t just bring texture; they add sweet, savory, and crisp notes to every bite. Make sure each bit of onion and celery gets coated for even flavor throughout the salad.

Step 3: Fold in the Tuna

Drain your canned tuna well, then gently add it to the bowl. Use a fork to break up any large chunks, but take care not to mash the tuna to mush. You want a little texture here, and every flake should be dressed but distinct, mingling perfectly with the Dill & Black Pepper Mayo and crunchy bits.

Step 4: Prepare the Lettuce Wraps

Wash your lettuce leaves and pat them perfectly dry with a clean towel or paper towels. A dry leaf means the wraps stay crisp and hold together when filled. Lay them out like little edible boats waiting to be filled with that creamy tuna goodness!

Step 5: Assemble & Serve

Spoon a generous scoop of tuna salad into each leaf, right down the center. Fold or roll each leaf to enclose the filling, then arrange the wraps in a cheery row on a platter. If you feel fancy, shower them with a sprinkle of extra dill or some lemon wedges on the side. Serve immediately and watch everyone’s faces light up!

How to Serve Dill & Black Pepper Mayo

Garnishes

A handful of chopped fresh dill scattered over the top not only intensifies the herbal aroma but also adds a lively contrast against the creamy filling. Lemon wedges are a must for those who love an extra burst of citrus before biting in. Don’t underestimate how a simple garnish can elevate both the flavor and the looks of your Dill & Black Pepper Mayo wraps.

Side Dishes

Pair these Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps with a side of crisp veggie sticks, a tangy cucumber salad, or a bowl of soup for a satisfying lunch. The lightness of the lettuce wraps and zest of the Dill & Black Pepper Mayo work beautifully with anything cool and crunchy. Even a batch of air-fried sweet potato fries wouldn’t go amiss!

Creative Ways to Present

Arrange your wraps on a large platter lined with extra lettuce leaves or edible flowers for a show-stopping appetizer display. You could also let guests build their own wraps at the table, offering the Dill & Black Pepper Mayo tuna salad alongside an array of lettuces and toppings so everyone can make their perfect bite.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have leftovers, store the tuna salad portion of your Dill & Black Pepper Mayo wraps in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Always wait to assemble the lettuce wraps until just before serving, as this keeps the leaves from going soggy.

Freezing

Freezing isn’t recommended for this recipe. The creamy Dill & Black Pepper Mayo and crisp veggies can separate or lose their lovely textures once thawed. For the best taste and crunch, stick to making these wraps fresh or prepping the salad ahead for the fridge.

Reheating

Since this is a no-cook, cold-based dish, reheating isn’t needed! Simply give your chilled Dill & Black Pepper Mayo tuna salad a quick stir, taste for seasoning, and spoon into fresh lettuce leaves for instant enjoyment.

FAQs

Can I use a different protein instead of tuna?

Absolutely! Try cooked shredded chicken or canned salmon, both of which pair just as wonderfully with the Dill & Black Pepper Mayo base. Even chickpeas make a tasty vegetarian swap.

What’s the best lettuce for these wraps?

Romaine, iceberg, and butter lettuces are all great choices thanks to their sturdy, large leaves. Just be sure to pick leaves that are big enough to hold a generous scoop of the filling, and check that they’re free of tears.

Can I lighten up the Dill & Black Pepper Mayo?

Yes! For a lighter twist, swap some or all of the mayonnaise with plain Greek yogurt. This keeps the creamy texture but makes the wraps even more protein-packed and tangy.

Are there any optional mix-ins that go well?

Definitely. Chopped cucumber, diced pickles, or a spoonful of capers add extra zip and crunch. Don’t be afraid to make this Dill & Black Pepper Mayo tuna salad your own by mixing in your favorite flavors.

How far in advance can I prepare these wraps?

You can mix up the Dill & Black Pepper Mayo tuna filling up to two days ahead. For the freshest wraps, store the filling and lettuce separately, then assemble just before serving so everything stays crisp and bright.

Final Thoughts

These Tuna Salad Lettuce Wraps with Lemon, Dill & Black Pepper Mayo are proof that a handful of humble ingredients can create something truly special. If fresh, zesty, protein-packed meals are your jam, I can’t recommend this one enough! Give this recipe a try the next time you need a quick lunch or a light dinner and let your taste buds do their happy dance.