Perfectly Seared Grilled Tuna Steak Recipe

This incredible grilled tuna steak is a game-changer for seafood lovers! With a deeply flavorful Asian-inspired marinade and a quick cook time, these tuna steaks develop a beautiful sear on the outside while maintaining that desirable tender, pink center. Ready in just 40 minutes (including marinating time), this recipe is perfect for those weeknights when you want something impressive without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Tuna steaks: The star of the show, providing a meaty texture and rich flavor. Look for sushi-grade if you prefer a rarer center.
• Coconut aminos: Adds the perfect umami flavor without the excessive sodium of traditional soy sauce. Regular soy sauce works in a pinch if you don’t have dietary restrictions.
• Sesame oil: Brings that distinctive nutty flavor that’s essential to Asian-inspired dishes. A little goes a long way!
• Garlic: Infuses the marinade with aromatic depth. Fresh is definitely better than powdered here.
• Fresh ginger: Adds a zingy, warming quality that balances the savory elements perfectly.
• Honey: Provides just enough sweetness to create caramelization when grilling. The sugar-free option keeps carbs lower if that’s important to you.
• Sea salt: Enhances all the other flavors. Don’t skip this, even though you’re using coconut aminos or soy sauce.
• Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat that complements the tuna beautifully.
• Red pepper flakes: Brings a touch of heat that can be adjusted to your preference.

Variations

Thai-Inspired Tuna

Add a tablespoon of lime juice, some chopped cilantro, and a splash of fish sauce to the marinade for bright, Thai-inspired flavors.

Mediterranean Style

Swap the Asian marinade for a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, and minced garlic, then serve with a side of tzatziki.

Blackened Tuna

Create a dry rub with paprika, cayenne, thyme, oregano, and garlic powder instead of the wet marinade, then sear at high heat for a spicy crust.

Citrus Glazed

Add orange or lime zest to the marinade, and brush the steaks with a citrus juice and honey glaze during the last minute of cooking.

How to Make Grilled Tuna Steak

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade

Whisk together coconut aminos, sesame oil, minced garlic, grated ginger, honey, sea salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes in a small bowl until well combined. This aromatic mixture will infuse the tuna with incredible flavor.

Step 2: Marinate the Tuna

Place your tuna steaks in a plastic bag, pour the marinade over them, then seal and gently turn to ensure even coating. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, but no more than 2 hours—any longer and the acid in the marinade could start cooking the fish.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

As marinating time nears its end, clean your grill grates thoroughly with an oiled paper towel. Preheat to medium-high heat for at least 10 minutes. A properly heated grill ensures a perfect sear without sticking.

Step 4: Grill the Tuna

Place your marinated tuna steaks directly on the hot grill and close the lid. Cook for just 2-3 minutes per side for a beautiful medium-rare center (about 125°F internal temperature). For more well-done tuna, add 2 minutes per side, though many tuna enthusiasts prefer the pink center.

Step 5: Rest Before Serving

Transfer the grilled tuna to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This crucial step allows the juices to redistribute throughout the fish, ensuring a moist, flavorful result.

How to Serve

Perfect Pairings

Serve your grilled tuna with a side of wasabi mashed potatoes or coconut rice to complement the Asian flavors. A light cucumber salad with rice vinegar dressing makes for a refreshing contrast.

Garnish Ideas

Sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, sliced green onions, or a small dollop of sriracha mayo for a professional finishing touch.

Plating Suggestion

For an impressive presentation, slice the tuna and fan it out on the plate. Add a small stack of greens dressed with sesame oil and rice vinegar on the side.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover tuna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep in mind that the texture is best when freshly cooked.

Freezing

While technically possible, freezing cooked tuna isn’t recommended as it significantly changes the texture. If you must freeze, wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap, then foil, and use within 1 month.

Reheating

For the best results with leftovers, serve them cold or at room temperature. Reheating will further cook the tuna and can make it dry. If you prefer it warm, heat gently in a pan with a splash of water for just 30 seconds per side.

FAQs

What’s the best type of tuna for grilling?
Yellowfin (Ahi) tuna is ideal for this recipe as it has a firm texture and mild flavor that pairs beautifully with the marinade. Bluefin tuna is another excellent option if you can find it, though it tends to be more expensive.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?
Absolutely! A hot cast iron pan or grill pan works wonderfully. Heat it until it’s smoking slightly, add a thin layer of high-heat oil, and cook the tuna steaks for the same amount of time as you would on a grill.

Is it safe to eat tuna that’s pink in the center?
For most healthy adults, consuming sushi-grade tuna with a pink center is safe. If you’re uncertain about the quality of your fish or have health concerns, cooking to a higher internal temperature (145°F) is recommended, though the texture will be firmer.

What can I use instead of coconut aminos?
If you don’t have dietary restrictions, regular soy sauce works perfectly (though use about 25% less due to its stronger flavor). For a gluten-free option, tamari is an excellent substitute. Liquid aminos also work well as a one-to-one replacement.

This grilled tuna steak recipe transforms an ordinary weeknight into something special. The beautiful contrast between the seared exterior and the tender interior creates a dining experience that rivals your favorite seafood restaurant. The best part? You’ll have it on the table in just 40 minutes from start to finish. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this dish is sure to impress with its robust flavors and elegant presentation. Give it a try tonight – your taste buds will thank you!

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