Mediterranean Diet Tuna Nigiri

Elevate your sushi game with this Mediterranean Diet Tuna Nigiri, a vibrant fusion of Japanese technique and Mediterranean flair. This recipe swaps out traditional white rice for nutty short-grain brown rice, infused with extra virgin olive oil, zesty lemon, and fragrant dill for a wholesome, flavor-packed base. Sushi-grade tuna crowns each bite, complemented by crisp cucumber ribbons and briny capers for a fresh coastal twist. With its simple preparation and artful presentation, this dish is both healthy and elegant—perfect for a light dinner or an impressive appetizer. Whether you're embracing the Mediterranean diet or looking for a unique sushi-inspired creation, this recipe is sure to delight.

Nutriscore Rating: 74/100

Prep Time:20 mins

Cook Time:30 mins

Total Time:50 mins

Servings: 2

Ingredients

• 200 grams fresh sushi-grade tuna
• 1 cup short-grain brown rice
• 1.5 cups water
• 1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• 1 teaspoon fresh dill
• 0.5 teaspoon sea salt
• 1 tablespoon white wine vinegar
• 1 small cucumber
• 1 tablespoon capers

Directions

Step 1

Rinse the short-grain brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

Step 2

In a medium saucepan, combine the brown rice and 1.5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until the rice is tender and all the water has been absorbed.

Step 3

Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl. While still warm, gently fluff the rice and mix in the extra virgin olive oil, lemon zest, fresh dill, sea salt, and white wine vinegar. Let the rice cool to room temperature.

Step 4

Using a sharp knife, cut the sushi-grade tuna into thin slices approximately 2 inches long and 1 inch wide.

Step 5

Peel the cucumber and slice it into thin ribbons using a mandoline or vegetable peeler.

Step 6

To assemble each nigiri, scoop a small handful of the seasoned rice (around 1-2 tablespoons), and compress it firmly into an oval-shaped mound with your hands.

Step 7

Place a slice of tuna over the rice mound and top with a cucumber ribbon. Secure the ribbon in place by tucking a few small capers on top for added flavor and garnish.

Step 8

Repeat the process until all the rice and tuna slices are used.

Step 9

Serve the Mediterranean Diet Tuna Nigiri immediately, garnished with extra dill or a sprinkle of lemon zest if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Serving size	(904.8g)

Amount per serving	% Daily Value*
Calories	652.4

Total Fat 25.7g	0%
Saturated Fat 5.0g	0%
Polyunsaturated Fat 0.0g
Cholesterol 76mg	0%
Sodium 1466.6mg	0%
Total Carbohydrate 51.9g	0%
Dietary Fiber 4.8g	0%
Total Sugars 2.2g
Protein 52.7g	0%

Vitamin D 454IU	0%
Calcium 72.8mg	0%
Iron 3.9mg	0%
Potassium 1392.9mg	0%

*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.

Source of Calories

Fat: 35.6%

Protein: 32.4%

Carbs: 32.0%