Why This Recipe Works
Cooking brings people together, and this Seared Ahi Tuna Steak Recipe (and Spicy Tuna Bowls!) does just that. The simplicity of the preparation allows the fresh ingredients to shine. Ahi tuna, known for its meaty texture and rich flavor, becomes the star of the show with just a few pantry staples. Marinating the tuna not only enhances its taste but also tenderizes it, creating a delicious interplay of flavors.
Moreover, the quick searing method seals in moisture while providing that coveted golden crust. The balance of savory tamari and zesty lime juice in the marinade is a delightful nod to the oceanic origins of the dish. Overall, this recipe lets you whip up a gourmet meal in no time, making it perfect for any occasion.
Why You’ll Love This Seared Ahi Tuna Steak Recipe (and Spicy Tuna Bowls!)
Imagine sinking your teeth into a perfectly seared piece of tuna that’s crispy on the outside but melt-in-your-mouth tender on the inside—that’s what you get with this recipe! It’s not just the tuna itself; it’s the versatile pairing that really shines. The Spicy Tuna Bowls made with quinoa and edamame are healthy, filling, and bursting with color. It’s like a little culinary adventure right in your kitchen.
Not to mention, it’s easy to make and doesn’t require hours of prep or cooking. Plus, the marinade brings a burst of flavor that’ll impress friends and family alike. Whether you’re an experienced cook or just starting, this dish is sure to become a favorite. You’re going to love how customizable it is, too; it’s an open invitation to get creative!
Ingredients for Seared Ahi Tuna Steak
- 1 pound fresh ahi or yellowfin tuna steak (wild caught recommended), 1 ½ to 2 inches thick
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium tamari or soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons neutral vegetable oil (such as grapeseed or safflower), divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Quinoa Edamame Salad (link to the recipe)
- Spicy Sriracha Sauce (link to the recipe)
Marinate the Tuna Steak
Preparing the Marinade
Let’s start with the marinade because that’s where the magic begins. First, pat the tuna steak(s) dry. This step is crucial; you want to keep the tuna as dry as possible for the best sear. In a small bowl, whisk together tamari, 1 tablespoon of the oil, lime juice, grated garlic, and honey. Don’t forget to add some salt and pepper for that extra flavor punch.
Marinade the Tuna
Next, place the tuna in a dish or a zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the tuna and turn it gently to coat every surface. After that, cover the dish or seal the bag and pop it in the refrigerator. It’s best to let the tuna marinate for 30 minutes to 2 hours, and don’t hesitate to give it a turn every now and then. This helps the flavors soak in nicely.
Sear the Tuna Steak
Preparing the Skillet
Now we’re getting to the fun part—searing! Remove the tuna from the marinade and pat it dry using paper towels. This helps achieve that amazing crust. Season both sides of the steak with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
Cooking the Tuna
Heat a medium cast iron or non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add the remaining tablespoon of oil and watch for it to shimmer. Once the oil is hot enough, carefully place the tuna in the skillet. Sear for 2-3 minutes until the bottom is brown. Flip the steak and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, checking to see if it’s at your desired doneness. For the best results, aim for rare to medium-rare.
Serve the Seared Ahi Tuna
Resting and Slicing
Once it’s cooked to your liking, transfer the steak to a cutting board. Let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the tuna moist and flavorful. When you’re ready, slice the tuna against the grain. This makes for a nice and tender bite.
Serving Suggestion
For serving, lay the slices over a bed of Quinoa Edamame Salad. Drizzle some Spicy Sriracha Sauce on top for that kick of spice. It’s a combination that’s hard to resist!
Tips for Success
- Choose high-quality, fresh tuna for the best flavor. Look for bright red color and have it cut thick.
- Do not overcook the tuna; the ideal texture is rare to medium-rare, so keep a close eye.
- Allowing the tuna to rest is essential; skipping this step can result in a dry piece of fish.
Variations
Customize your dish to suit your taste! You can incorporate different sauces, like a mango salsa for a fruity twist or a wasabi mayo for a spicy undertone. Furthermore, experiment with various sides; jasmine rice, avocado, or a fresh green salad would complement the meal beautifully.
Storage Tips
If you happen to have leftovers (though I doubt it!), store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They’ll keep for up to 2 days. When you reheat, do it gently to avoid drying out the tuna. It’s all about keeping that delightful texture intact.
Pairing Ideas
Pair this dish with chilled white wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio; the brightness of the wine enhances the flavors. You could also complement the meal with a light cucumber salad or a comforting bowl of miso soup.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen tuna for this recipe?
Yes, but make sure it’s completely thawed and patted dry before marinating.
2. What other sides can I serve with seared tuna?
Some great options include stir-fried vegetables, a fresh salad, or Asian noodles.
3. How do I know when the tuna is cooked to the right doneness?
Using a meat thermometer is a reliable method. For reference, 125°F is rare, while 135°F is medium-rare.
4. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare it up to a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
5. What is the best way to slice seared tuna?
Always slice against the grain; it ensures that each piece remains tender.
This Seared Ahi Tuna Steak Recipe (and Spicy Tuna Bowls!) brings vibrant ocean flavors straight to your home. It’s quick and uncomplicated, making it perfect for an eventful weeknight dinner or a relaxed weekend meal. Combining the rich taste of tuna with the refreshing quinoa edamame salad creates a delightful contrast that will impress both you and your guests. Enjoy this marvelous dish and its versatility, allowing you to substitute, switch, and play with flavors as you create your unique version!
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Seared Ahi Tuna Steak
This Seared Ahi Tuna Steak is a quick and flavorful dish, perfect for any occasion. The rich taste of tuna blends beautifully with a fresh marinade, making it a gourmet meal in no time.
- Total Time: 16 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh ahi or yellowfin tuna steak (wild caught recommended), 1 ½ to 2 inches thick
- 2 tablespoons low-sodium tamari or soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons neutral vegetable oil (such as grapeseed or safflower), divided
- 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
- 1 garlic clove, grated
- 1 teaspoon honey
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- Quinoa Edamame Salad (link to the recipe)
- Spicy Sriracha Sauce (link to the recipe)
Instructions
- Pat the tuna steak dry.
- Whisk together tamari, 1 tablespoon oil, lime juice, grated garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the tuna for 30 minutes to 2 hours.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add remaining oil.
- Sear the tuna for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Serve over quinoa edamame salad and drizzle with Spicy Sriracha Sauce.
Last Step:
Please leave a rating and comment letting us know how you liked this recipe! This helps our business to thrive and continue providing free, high-quality recipes for you.Notes
Choose high-quality, fresh tuna for the best flavor.
Do not overcook the tuna; aim for rare to medium-rare.
Allow the tuna to rest to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Calories: 300
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 500
- Fat: 18
- Saturated Fat: 3
- Unsaturated Fat: 15
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 14
- Fiber: 6
- Protein: 26
- Cholesterol: 80
