Grilled Tuna Steak is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural taste of fresh tuna. The steak is lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil before being grilled to perfection. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, and pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad or roasted vegetables.
Why Grilled Tuna Steak?
Grilled tuna steak is a healthy, protein-packed meal that’s incredibly versatile. Rich in omega-3 fatty acids and essential nutrients, tuna steaks are perfect for a nutritious dinner, whether served over a bed of salad, with a side of grilled vegetables, or as the main star of a Mediterranean-inspired meal. Tuna is also sustainable when sourced responsibly, adding an eco-friendly element to your culinary pursuits.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Grilled Tuna Steak
- High Heat Is Key: Tuna steaks cook quickly, so a hot grill is essential for a good sear without overcooking.
- Don’t Overcook: Tuna becomes dry and chewy when overcooked. Aim for a seared exterior and a rare to medium-rare interior for the best texture.
- Let It Rest: Let the grilled tuna rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps lock in the juices.
How to Serve Grilled Tuna Steak
- Simple and Classic: With a drizzle of homemade chimichurri sauce or a squeeze of fresh lemon.
- Asian-Inspired: Serve with a wasabi mayo drizzle, pickled ginger, and a side of sticky rice.
- Mediterranean Feast: Pair with a Greek salad, tzatziki sauce, and grilled pita bread.
- Over a Bed of Greens: A fresh arugula salad with shaved Parmesan and a balsamic glaze is a light and flavorful option.
Variations to Try
- Sesame-Crusted Tuna: Before grilling, coat the tuna steak with a mix of black and white sesame seeds for a nutty crunch.
- Blackened Tuna: Rub the tuna steak with Cajun spices for a bold, smoky flavor.
- Citrus-Marinated Tuna: Soak the tuna in a mix of orange and lime juice with fresh herbs for a bright, zesty flavor.
How to Store Grilled Tuna Steak
- Refrigeration: Store any leftover tuna steak in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that reheating may dry it out, so it’s best served cold over a salad.
- Freezing: Tuna steak can be frozen, but the texture may change slightly. Wrap tightly in plastic wrap and then foil before placing in the freezer for up to 3 months.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use frozen tuna steaks for grilling?
Yes, but make sure to thaw them completely in the refrigerator before grilling. Pat them dry thoroughly to remove excess moisture.
How do I know when my tuna steak is done?
Use a meat thermometer if you’re unsure. For rare, aim for an internal temperature of 115°F; for medium-rare, 125°F.
Can I cook tuna steak well-done?
While it’s possible, tuna steak is best enjoyed rare to medium-rare. If you must cook it well-done, consider marinating it beforehand to keep it moist.
What side dishes go well with grilled tuna steak?
Grilled vegetables, quinoa salad, roasted potatoes, or a fresh avocado salsa complement grilled tuna steak beautifully.
Grilled Tuna Steak
Grilled Tuna Steak is a simple yet flavorful dish that brings out the natural taste of fresh tuna. The steak is lightly seasoned with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil before being grilled to perfection.
Ingredients
For the Tuna & Seasoning:
- 2 ahi tuna steaks (about 1 pound)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Kosher salt & freshly ground black pepper
- Sesame seeds, to taste
- Thinly sliced green onion, for garnish
For the Dipping Sauce:
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon unseasoned rice vinegar
- 1 teaspoon honey
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 2 teaspoons finely grated fresh ginger
- 1 teaspoon minced fresh garlic
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce, rice vinegar, and honey until the honey dissolves. Add in the toasted sesame oil, grated ginger, and minced garlic. Whisk until smooth and emulsified. Set aside at room temperature or refrigerate for later.
- Preheat your gas or charcoal grill to high heat. You want it scorching hot to get that perfect sear.
- Rinse the tuna steaks and pat them completely dry with paper towels. Rub both sides generously with olive oil, then season with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
- Place the tuna steaks directly on the hot grill grates. Grill for about 2 minutes per side to get a gorgeous sear, leaving the center rare and juicy. If you prefer a more cooked center, add an extra minute or two per side.
- Once done, transfer the tuna to a cutting board and slice thinly across the grain with a sharp knife (about 1/4 to 1/2-inch slices).
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and sliced green onion.
- Arrange on a platter and serve alongside the dipping sauce. Enjoy every delicious bite!
Nutrition Information
Yield
4Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 238Total Fat 14gSaturated Fat 2gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 11gCholesterol 33mgSodium 771mgCarbohydrates 5gFiber 1gSugar 2gProtein 23g
Dinnerfocus.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Grilled tuna steak is a showstopper that’s surprisingly simple to master. With the right technique and a few key seasonings, you’ll be savoring restaurant-quality seafood right in your own backyard. Whether you prefer it seared and rare or marinated and spicy, the possibilities are endless. Now, fire up that grill and enjoy the bold, fresh flavors of perfectly grilled tuna steak!
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