Description
This seared ahi tuna recipe is a restaurant-quality dish that’s incredibly easy to make at home. With a crisp, flavorful crust and a tender, rare center, this tuna steak is packed with protein and omega-3s. It cooks in just minutes, making it a perfect option for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. Serve it with rice, salad, or a light sauce for an unforgettable dining experience.
Ingredients
Scale
Ingredients
For the Tuna
- 2 (6-ounce) sushi-grade ahi tuna steaks
- 2 tablespoons avocado oil (or sesame oil)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds (optional)
For the Sauce (Optional but Recommended)
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup
- ½ teaspoon grated ginger
- ½ teaspoon minced garlic
- 1 teaspoon lime juice
Instructions
Instructions
-
Prepare the Tuna
- Pat the ahi tuna steaks dry with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, and sesame seeds if using.
-
Heat the Pan
- Place a cast-iron skillet or non-stick pan over high heat and add avocado or sesame oil.
- Let the oil heat until it just begins to smoke—this ensures a perfect sear.
-
Sear the Tuna
- Carefully place the tuna steaks in the hot pan.
- Cook for 30–60 seconds per side, depending on how rare you prefer the center.
- Flip only once to maintain an even crust.
-
Rest and Slice
- Remove the tuna from the pan and let it rest for 1–2 minutes.
- Slice thinly against the grain for the best texture.
-
Prepare the Sauce (Optional)
- In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, ginger, garlic, and lime juice.
- Drizzle over the tuna or serve as a dipping sauce.
-
Serve and Enjoy
- Plate the sliced tuna with steamed rice, fresh salad, or avocado slices.
- Garnish with extra sesame seeds or green onions for added flavor.
Notes
- Sushi-Grade Tuna: Always buy high-quality sushi-grade ahi tuna to ensure it’s safe to eat rare.
- Oil Selection: Use high smoke point oils like avocado or sesame oil to get a perfect sear without burning.
- Alternative Cooking Method: If you prefer a smoky flavor, you can also grill the tuna over high heat for the same amount of time.
- Serving Ideas: Seared ahi tuna pairs well with ponzu sauce, spicy mayo, or a side of pickled ginger.
- Prep Time: 5
- Cook Time: 2
- Category: Lunch
- Method: Pan-Searing
- Cuisine: Asian, Hawaiian
Keywords: ahi tuna, seared tuna, pan-seared tuna, sesame-crusted tuna, quick tuna recipe, sushi-grade tuna, gourmet tuna steak, healthy seafood