Healthy Tuna Rice Balls

Name: Healthy Tuna Rice Balls
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup sushi rice; 1 1/4 cups water; 1 can of tuna, drained; 2 tablespoons mayonnaise; 1 tablespoon soy sauce; 1 tablespoon chopped green onions; 1 teaspoon sesame oil; 1/2 cup cucumber, diced; 1/2 cup carrots, grated; Seaweed sheets (for wrapping)

Highlighted under: Healthy & Light

Elevate your snack game with these delicious Healthy Tuna Rice Balls! Packed with protein and flavorful ingredients, these bite-sized treats are perfect for meal prep or a quick on-the-go lunch. With a blend of sushi rice, fresh vegetables, and nutritious tuna, they offer a balance of taste and nutrition that everyone will love. Perfect for a light dinner or a wholesome snack, these rice balls are both satisfying and easy to make.

Created by

Tessa Wright

Last updated on 2025-12-13T09:35:17.596Z

Nutritional Benefits

Healthy Tuna Rice Balls are more than just a tasty snack; they are a powerhouse of nutrition. Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are essential for heart health. Coupled with the complex carbohydrates from sushi rice, these rice balls offer lasting energy, making them an ideal choice for busy lifestyles. The addition of fresh vegetables like cucumber and carrots not only enhances the flavor but also adds valuable vitamins and minerals, ensuring you’re fueling your body with wholesome ingredients.

Incorporating these rice balls into your diet can help support your immune system, thanks to the nutritious benefits of fresh vegetables, and they can assist in maintaining a healthy weight due to their high protein content. With fewer processed ingredients and saturated fats compared to many traditional snacks, these rice balls provide a satisfying option that aligns with healthy eating habits.

Perfect for Any Occasion

These Healthy Tuna Rice Balls are incredibly versatile, making them suitable for a variety of occasions. They’re perfect for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or as a protein-packed snack for on-the-go meals. Whether you’re heading to work, school, or a picnic, these rice balls can easily fit into your meal prep routine. They retain their flavor well when stored, allowing you to enjoy them throughout the week.

In addition to being a great snack for adults, these rice balls are also kid-friendly. They are bite-sized, fun to eat, and can be customized with different fillings according to your child's preferences. This makes them a sneaky way to incorporate more protein and vegetables into your children’s diets.

Customizable Options

One of the best features of Healthy Tuna Rice Balls is their adaptability. While the basic recipe is delicious, you can easily modify the ingredients to suit your taste. Feel free to substitute the tuna with cooked chicken, tofu, or any seafood of your choice for a different protein source. Similarly, you can swap out vegetables based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences, adding ingredients like bell peppers, avocado, or even spicy mayonnaise for an extra kick.

For those with dietary restrictions, it’s simple to make the rice balls gluten-free by using tamari instead of soy sauce. Additionally, you can experiment with different seasonings or sauces to create various flavor profiles. This flexibility not only keeps meals exciting but also allows you to cater to different dietary needs.

Ingredients

Rice Ingredients

1 cup sushi rice
1 1/4 cups water

Tuna Mixture

1 can of tuna, drained
2 tablespoons mayonnaise
1 tablespoon soy sauce
1 tablespoon chopped green onions
1 teaspoon sesame oil

Vegetable Mix

1/2 cup cucumber, diced
1/2 cup carrots, grated
Seaweed sheets (for wrapping)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

Cook the Sushi Rice

Rinse sushi rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Combine rice and water in a pot, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes.

Make the Tuna Mixture

In a mixing bowl, combine drained tuna, mayonnaise, soy sauce, green onions, and sesame oil. Mix well and set aside.

Prepare the Rice Balls

Once the rice has cooled slightly, wet your hands with water to prevent sticking. Take a scoop of rice and flatten it in your palm. Place a small amount of tuna mixture and some diced vegetables in the center, then mold the rice around the filling to form a ball.

Wrap and Serve

Cut seaweed sheets into strips and wrap around each rice ball for added flavor. Serve immediately or refrigerate for later.

Enjoy!

Storage Tips

To keep your Healthy Tuna Rice Balls fresh, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be kept for up to three days, maintaining their flavor and texture. If you plan to make a larger batch for meal prep, consider wrapping each rice ball individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a container. This helps prevent them from sticking together and allows for easy grab-and-go snacking.

For longer storage, these rice balls can be frozen. Place them in a freezer-safe container or bag, separating layers with parchment paper to avoid sticking. When you're ready to eat, simply thaw them in the refrigerator overnight or enjoy them cold from the freezer for a refreshing snack.

Serving Suggestions

These Healthy Tuna Rice Balls can be enhanced with various dips and sauces, elevating their taste to new heights. Consider serving them with a side of soy sauce or spicy mayo for added flavor. A tangy dipping sauce made with yogurt, lime, and herbs can also complement the rice balls perfectly, providing a zesty contrast to the savory tuna.

For a complete meal, pair the rice balls with a light salad or steamed vegetables. A refreshing cucumber salad with a splash of vinegar and sesame oil can amplify the dish’s overall freshness and make for a balanced plate.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of sushi rice?

Yes, but the texture and stickiness will be different. Sushi rice is best for molding.