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Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks

Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks

Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks offer a quick, healthy, and restaurant-quality seafood dish that features a perfectly seared crust with a tender, flavorful pink center. Ready in under 15 minutes, this recipe combines simple ingredients like sushi-grade ahi tuna, sesame oil, soy sauce, fresh garlic, and ginger to create a versatile and nutritious meal with an impressive presentation.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 2 sushi-grade ahi tuna steaks (1 to 1.5 inches thick)
  • 1 tablespoon sesame oil
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free option)
  • 1 clove fresh garlic, minced or grated
  • 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, minced
  • 1 teaspoon black or white sesame seeds (optional)
  • 1 teaspoon fresh lemon juice
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare Your Tuna Steaks: Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels to remove moisture. Season both sides lightly with salt and black pepper to enhance their natural flavor.
  2. Heat the Pan: Preheat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottom pan over high heat until very hot but not smoking. Add sesame oil and swirl to evenly coat the pan surface for a quick, golden sear that locks in juices.
  3. Sear the Tuna Steaks: Place the tuna steaks in the pan, pressing gently for even contact. Sear for 1 to 1.5 minutes per side for rare, or add 30 seconds per side for medium-rare, avoiding overcooking to maintain tenderness and color.
  4. Add Flavorful Finishing Touches: Just before removing, add the minced garlic and fresh ginger to the pan for an aromatic burst. Drizzle soy sauce over the steaks and let it reduce slightly to create a rich umami glaze.
  5. Rest and Slice: Transfer the seared steaks to a cutting board and let rest for a few minutes to redistribute juices. Slice across the grain into half-inch thick slices for best texture and presentation.

Notes

  • Use sushi-grade tuna for safety and optimal taste.
  • Pat tuna dry before searing to ensure a perfect crust.
  • Use a very hot pan to develop a golden crust quickly.
  • Do not overcook; ahi tuna is best rare to medium-rare.
  • Let the steaks rest before slicing to keep them juicy.
  • Use a sharp knife to create clean, smooth slices.

Nutrition

Keywords: ahi tuna, seared tuna, seafood recipe, quick dinner, healthy seafood, restaurant quality, sushi-grade tuna, gluten free, omega-3 rich