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Spicy Seattle Tuna Rolls

This high-protein dish offers a fresh, contemporary take on the classic hand roll, combining the clean flavours of sashimi-grade yellowfin tuna with a vibrant ginger and chilli dressing. Inspired by the bold seafood culture of the American Pacific Northwest, these spicy Seattle tuna rolls are elevated by toasted sesame and fragrant aromatics. The contrast between the crisp nori and the buttery tuna makes for a sophisticated yet effortless light meal.

Ideal for a healthy lunch or a fun weekend dinner, this recipe allows for plenty of customisation with assorted crunchy fillings like cucumber and spring onion. As the tuna is served raw, ensure you source the highest quality fish from a reputable fishmonger. These hand-rolled wraps are not only visually striking but also naturally low in fat, making them a nutritious choice for those seeking a high-protein diet without compromising on flavour.

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Ingredients for Spicy Seattle Tuna Rolls

  • 4 Green Thai chillies, stemmed, coarsely chopped

  • 1 tablespoon plus 1 teaspoon grated peeled fresh ginger

  • 1 tablespoon toasted sesame seeds

  • 1 garlic clove, coarsely chopped

  • 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt plus more for seasoning

  • 60ml sunflower or vegetable oil

  • 2 teaspoons toasted sesame oil

  • 1 teaspoon distilled white vinegar

  • 450g sashimi-grade yellowfin tuna fillets, cut into 1/8" cubes

  • 4 toasted dried nori sheets, halved lengthwise

  • 275g (about) cooked short-grain rice, cooled

  • Assorted fillings, such as sliced spring onions, English hothouse or Persian cucumbers, coriander leaves, and chive blossoms

  • Ingredient info:Look for Thai chillies, nori, and chive blossoms at better supermarkets and at Asian markets.

Purée chillies, ginger, sesame seeds, garlic, and 1/2 teaspoons salt in a mini-processor until paste forms. Transfer to a medium bowl. Stir in both oils and vinegar. Season dressing with salt. Add tuna; gently toss just to coat.

Place nori sheets on a work surface with short side facing you. Spread about 2 rounded tablespoons rice evenly on bottom third of each sheet. Divide tuna mixture among rolls, spooning over rice. Top with fillings. Roll into cones or log shapes, using a few grains of cooked rice as "glue" to seal.

Disclaimer

While every effort has been made to ensure the information is accurate and up to date, individual needs may vary and dietary requirements can differ based on personal health conditions. Always check food labels and allergen information before preparing or consuming any recipe. If you have specific health concerns, allergies, intolerances, or are following a medically prescribed diet, seek advice from your GP, pharmacist, or a registered dietitian before making significant changes to your diet or lifestyle.

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UK recipe editors

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UK recipe editors

Article history

The information on this page is peer reviewed by qualified clinicians.

  • 28 Jan 2026 | Originally published

    Authored by:

    UK recipe editors

    Peer reviewed by

    UK recipe editors
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