Grilled Tuna Steak Recipe: Easy and Delicious Weeknight Dinner
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Grilling tuna steaks is far easier than you might think, giving you a restaurant-quality meal at home. All you need are fresh tuna steaks, a hot grill, and a few simple seasonings.
The secret to a great grilled tuna steak lies in getting the perfect sear while keeping the inside rare and tender. This simple technique means you can enjoy a delicious and healthy meal in just a few minutes.
So, fire up your grill, grab your ingredients, and get ready to cook a dish that impresses everyone at your table!
Exact Ingredients (+ Possible Substitutes)
To make delicious grilled tuna steaks, you need the perfect ingredients. Here’s a simple list:
Main Ingredients
- Tuna Steaks: Fresh or frozen, about 1-inch thick.
Marinade Ingredients
- Coconut Aminos (or Soy Sauce)
- Sesame Oil (or Olive Oil)
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, minced
- Honey (or Maple Syrup)
- Salt, to taste
- Black Pepper, freshly ground
- Red Pepper Flakes (optional, for heat)
For Grilling
- Neutral Oil (like canola or vegetable oil) for brushing
- Kosher Salt
- Coarsely Ground Black Pepper
You can substitute coconut aminos with soy sauce if you don’t have it on hand. For a sweeter note, use maple syrup instead of honey. Olive oil works just as well as sesame oil. Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste.
Optional Garnishes
- Lemon Wedges: For a fresh burst of flavor.
- Fresh Herbs: Like parsley or cilantro.
This mix of ingredients ensures your tuna will be flavorful and grilled to perfection. Enjoy your cooking adventure!
Instructions
Prepare the Marinade:
- In a small bowl, whisk together these ingredients:
- 1/4 cup coconut aminos or soy sauce
- 2 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 clove minced garlic
- 1 tsp grated ginger
- 1 tsp lime zest
- Salt and pepper to taste
- In a small bowl, whisk together these ingredients:
Marinate the Tuna:
- Place your tuna steaks in a resealable plastic bag.
- Pour the marinade over the steaks.
- Seal the bag and gently massage the marinade into the tuna.
- Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
Prepare the Grill:
- Preheat your grill to high heat.
Grill the Tuna:
- Remove the tuna from the bag and let it come to room temperature.
- Pat the tuna dry with paper towels.
- Brush both sides with a bit of olive oil.
- Sprinkle with salt and pepper.
Cook the Tuna:
- Place the tuna steaks on the grill.
- Grill for about 1-2 minutes per side. The outside should be lightly browned.
- Use a spatula to flip the steaks gently.
Check for Doneness:
- The inside should be rare to medium-rare, still pink in the middle.
- If using a thermometer, aim for 115°F.
Serve:
- Transfer the grilled tuna to a serving platter.
- Garnish with sesame seeds, if desired.
- Enjoy your delicious, flavorful grilled tuna steaks!
Recipe Variations & Serving Suggestions
Recipe Variations
Sesame Crusted: Coat your tuna steaks with sesame seeds before grilling. The seeds add a crunchy texture and a nutty taste.
Soy Ginger Marinade: Make a marinade with soy sauce, grated ginger, garlic, and a touch of honey. This adds a sweet and savory flavor.
Herb Infused: Use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or cilantro in your marinade. Herbs will bring a fresh, vibrant taste.
Spicy Tuna: Add some heat with red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper in your marinade. This gives your tuna a spicy kick.
Citrus Zest: Mix in lime or lemon zest for a bright, tangy flavor. Citrus makes the tuna taste fresh and light.
Serving Suggestions
Salad: Serve your grilled tuna steak on top of a crisp salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and avocado. Drizzle with a light vinaigrette.
Tacos: Slice the grilled tuna and place it in soft tortillas. Top with slaw, avocado, and a squeeze of lime.
Rice Bowl: Pair your tuna steak with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables. Add some soy sauce or teriyaki sauce.
Pasta: Serve chunks of grilled tuna with pasta tossed in a light olive oil and garlic sauce. Add cherry tomatoes and basil.
Sandwich: Put the grilled tuna steak in a sandwich with lettuce, tomato, and a slice of cheese. Spread some aioli or tartar sauce.
Trying different variations and serving ideas can make your grilled tuna steak meals exciting and delicious. Enjoy experimenting with these options!
Hi, I'm Benjamin. I love cooking, long walks, and my girlfriend! Here you’ll find simple and delicious recipes that you can make in 30 minutes or less.