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Tuna and Avocado Rice Paper Rolls

a person showing the inside of a crispy Rice Paper Tunacado melt

Ever get a craving that only tuna, avocado, and something crunchy will fix? That’s exactly the idea behind this Rice Paper Tunacado. A creamy tuna-and-avocado filling gets a hit of pesto, a touch of yogurt for tang, and a scattering of cheddar for melty hold. Instead of bread, the filling is wrapped in rice paper and air-fried until the exterior turns shatter-crisp while the interior stays soft and rich.

Rice Paper Tunacado

a person showing the inside of a crispy Rice Paper Tunacado melt
Creamy tuna and avocado wrapped in rice paper and air fried until shatter-crisp. A fast 15-minute lunch with a creamy filling and a cracker-like exterior.
Makes: 2
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Total Time: 17 minutes

Equipment

  • Mixing bowls
  • Box grater (for cheese)
  • Cutting board
  • Sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Air fryer
  • Pastry brush

Ingredients

  • 1 can tuna, drained
  • ½ ripe avocado
  • 1 tablespoon pesto
  • pinch of salt
  • 1 tablespoon plain yogurt
  • ¼ cup shredded cheddar cheese, to taste
  • 2 sheets rice paper
  • 1 teaspoon olive oil (for brushing)

Instructions

  • In a bowl, combine the drained tuna, diced avocado, pesto, yogurt, and a pinch of salt. Gently fold the mixture together — take care not to overmix so it remains slightly chunky. Divide into two equal portions.
    A hand holds a fork over a colorful floral plate containing tuna, avocado, ricotta cheese, and pesto, with sunlight casting shadows across the scene.
  • Briefly dip a sheet of rice paper into water for 2–3 seconds on each side. Lay it flat on your work surface immediately; do not soak.
    Two hands hold a translucent circular sheet above a decorative plate with green floral patterns, with sunlight casting shadows across the surface.
  • Place a small handful of grated cheddar in the center of the rice paper, add one portion of the tuna-avocado mixture on top, then sprinkle more cheddar over the filling.
    A floral-patterned plate holds a small pile of shredded cheese and a scoop of tuna salad, lit by sunlight.
  • Fold the rice paper into an envelope-style packet, tucking the sides in first and rolling to seal. Repeat for the second sheet and filling.
    Two hands fold a rice paper sheet filled with shredded cheese and herbs on a decorative plate with a black floral pattern.
  • Lightly brush both sides of each packet with olive oil to encourage browning.
    Two hands hold a rectangular block of rice and green vegetables wrapped in translucent paper, over a decorative white plate with a dark floral pattern.
  • Arrange the packets in a single layer in your air fryer basket and cook at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes, or until deeply golden and crisp. Air fryer models vary; begin checking at 8 minutes if yours runs hot.
    Two hands place two rectangular pieces of food topped with shredded cheese, wrapped in plastic, into an air fryer basket.
  • Let the packets rest for a minute or two so the filling sets slightly. Slice and serve while the rice paper is still crackly.
    a person showing the inside of a crispy Rice Paper Tunacado melt

Notes

  • Rice paper texture: Dip the rice paper briefly — 2–3 seconds — rather than soaking. Over-soaking makes it sticky and fragile.
  • Protein swap: Canned salmon is a great substitute if you prefer it or have it on hand.
  • Eat fresh: The rice paper crispness fades quickly, so this is best served immediately after cooking.
  • Air fryer tip: Cooking times vary by model; check early to avoid burning.

Why You’ll Love Rice Paper Tunacado

Creamy meets crunchy: The tuna-avocado filling stays soft while the rice paper shatters like a chip. Fast and simple: Minimal ingredients and prep time make it ideal for a quick lunch. Melty cheddar: Adds texture and helps keep the filling together. Flexible: Make one for yourself or scale up for guests.

Variations and Substitutions

  1. Swap canned tuna for canned salmon.
  2. Add sriracha or chili crisp to the filling for heat.
  3. Use pepper jack for spice or mozzarella for extra stretch.
  4. Make mini packets as bite-sized appetizers.

Best Served With

  • A simple green salad to round out the meal.
  • A drizzle of spicy mayo to add richness and heat.
  • Crispy potatoes or another hearty side if you want a fuller plate.

Common Questions

Can I make the filling ahead of time?

The tuna mixture will keep in the refrigerator for up to one day. Store covered and air fry the packets when ready to serve.

My rice paper keeps tearing. What am I doing wrong?

Most tearing happens from over-soaking. Dip briefly for 2–3 seconds, then work quickly to fill and fold.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes — substitute dairy-free yogurt and use a plant-based shredded cheese or skip the cheese altogether.

Can I use a different protein?

Canned salmon or shredded cooked chicken both work well in place of tuna.

How do I store leftovers?

Leftovers will lose crunch. If you must store them, keep refrigerated and reheat in the air fryer for a few minutes to restore some crispness.

Nutrition

Nutrition Facts — Rice Paper Tunacado
Serving Size: 1 each
Calories: 305
Fat: 18 g
Protein: 22 g
Carbohydrates: 13 g

Nutrition information is an estimate and should be used as a guideline only.