When it comes to seafood, few options are as versatile or flavorful as tuna. This protein-packed fish can be prepared in a multitude of ways, from raw and sashimi-style to grilled and pan-seared. Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy meal or an impressive dinner party centerpiece, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 20 delicious tuna recipes.
From classic dishes like tuna tartare and tuna burgers, to innovative creations like seared ahi tuna with ginger soy glaze and tuna stuffed avocados with lime dressing, there’s something for every palate and preference. And the best part? These recipes showcase the incredible versatility of tuna, which can be cooked in a variety of ways and paired with a wide range of flavors.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the world of tuna, highlighting some of our favorite recipes that are sure to inspire your next meal. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a kitchen novice, these mouthwatering dishes are guaranteed to impress and delight.
Fresh Tuna Poke Bowl with Avocado and Sesame
Experience the vibrant flavors of Hawaii with this refreshing tuna poke bowl, featuring tender chunks of fresh tuna mixed with creamy avocado and nutty sesame.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade tuna (such as yellowfin or bigeye)
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons sesame oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions for garnish
– Sesame seeds for topping (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the tuna into small cubes and place in a bowl.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
3. Pour the marinade over the tuna and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
4. Just before serving, slice the avocados and arrange on top of the tuna.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with green onions and sprinkle with sesame seeds (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Ahi Tuna with Ginger Soy Glaze
A flavorful and visually stunning dish that pairs the richness of ahi tuna with the brightness of ginger and soy.
Ingredients:
– 4 ahi tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp grated fresh ginger
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and grated ginger.
3. Season tuna steaks with salt and pepper on both sides.
4. Add olive oil to the preheated pan and sear tuna for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Brush the Ginger Soy Glaze over the tuna during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Tuna Steak with Lemon Herb Butter
Experience the perfect balance of flavors with this simple yet impressive recipe. Pan-seared to perfection and finished with a tangy lemon herb butter, this grilled tuna steak is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, softened
– 2 lemons, juiced
– 2 tbsp chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together softened butter, lemon juice, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the tuna steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill tuna for 2-3 minutes per side or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. During the last minute of grilling, top each steak with a pat of lemon herb butter.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tuna Tartare with Crispy Wonton Chips
Experience the perfect blend of fresh tuna and crispy wontons in this innovative appetizer. This recipe is sure to impress your guests with its unique flavor combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of sushi-grade tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 20 wonton wrappers
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked tuna, mayonnaise, soy sauce, sesame oil, and grated ginger. Mix until well combined.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cut the wonton wrappers into small squares (about 1 inch per side).
4. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Fry the wonton chips in batches until crispy, about 30 seconds per batch. Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve the tuna tartare with the crispy wonton chips and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls with Fresh Cucumber
Elevate your sushi game with this simple recipe that combines the bold flavors of spicy tuna and fresh cucumber. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner, these rolls are sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of Sriracha sauce
– 1/2 cup of sushi rice
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– Sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the spicy tuna mixture by mixing flaked tuna with mayonnaise and Sriracha sauce.
2. Cook the sushi rice according to package instructions.
3. Cut a sheet of nori seaweed in half.
4. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto each nori sheet, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Place a small amount of spicy tuna mixture and cucumber slice in the middle of each roll.
6. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact shape.
7. Slice into individual pieces and garnish with sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mediterranean Tuna Salad with Olives and Feta
This Mediterranean-inspired tuna salad combines the richness of olive oil, the brininess of feta cheese, and the savory flavor of olives for a delicious and healthy snack or lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the tuna, olives, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture, tossing gently to coat.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes ( preparation time only)
Fresh Tuna Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
Fresh Tuna Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro Recipe
Summary: This refreshing and flavorful ceviche recipe combines the richness of fresh tuna with the brightness of lime juice and the freshness of cilantro, perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna steak
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cut the tuna into small cubes and place them in a large bowl.
2. Squeeze the lime juice over the tuna, making sure each piece is coated.
3. Add the chopped cilantro to the bowl and toss gently to combine.
4. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cooking Time: None! This dish is raw, so no cooking required.
Tuna Nicoise Salad with Green Beans and Eggs
A classic French-inspired salad that combines the richness of tuna with the crunch of green beans, eggs, and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna in oil (drained)
– 1/2 cup of cooked green beans
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
– 1/2 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of Niçoise olives, pitted
– 1 tablespoon of Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, green beans, eggs, cherry tomatoes, and Niçoise olives.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Pour the dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
4. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
5. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Pan-Seared Tuna with Mango Salsa
Elevate your seafood game with this refreshing pan-seared tuna dish, served with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking oil or butter for pan-searing
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Add 1 tablespoon of cooking oil or butter to the pan and swirl it around.
4. Sear the tuna for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine the mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and garlic in a bowl.
6. Serve the seared tuna with the mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Tuna Stuffed Avocados with Lime Dressing
Elevate your snack game with this refreshing twist on traditional tuna salad. Fresh avocados filled with a zesty tuna mixture, topped with a tangy lime dressing, make for a satisfying and healthy treat.
Ingredients:
– 4 ripe avocados
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon of freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together the tuna, red onion, lime juice, and olive oil until well combined.
3. Spoon the tuna mixture into the avocado halves, mounding it slightly.
4. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 5-7 minutes (preparation time only)
Fresh Tuna Burgers with Wasabi Mayo
Elevate your burger game with this refreshing and flavorful recipe, featuring fresh tuna patties and a zesty wasabi mayo.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of fresh tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Wasabi Mayo (see below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, combine tuna, panko breadcrumbs, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, egg, salt, and pepper. Mix well until just combined.
3. Divide mixture into 4 equal portions and shape each portion into a patty.
4. Grill patties for 3-4 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toast hamburger buns on the grill or in a toaster.
Wasabi Mayo:
– Mix 1/2 cup mayonnaise with 1 tablespoon wasabi paste and 1 tablespoon soy sauce.
Assembly:
1. Assemble burgers by spreading a dollop of Wasabi Mayo on the bottom bun, followed by a tuna patty, lettuce, tomato, and top bun.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna Carpaccio with Arugula and Parmesan
Tuna Carpaccio with Arugula and Parmesan Recipe
A refreshing and flavorful Italian-inspired appetizer or light meal, Tuna Carpaccio is a perfect combination of tender tuna, peppery arugula, and nutty Parmesan.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna steak, cut into thin slices
– 4 cups arugula leaves
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Place the tuna slices on a large plate or platter.
2. Top each tuna slice with a handful of arugula leaves.
3. Sprinkle shaved Parmesan cheese over the arugula.
4. Drizzle olive oil and lemon juice over the dish, season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes (prep time) + serving
Grilled Tuna Skewers with Pineapple and Bell Peppers
Elevate your grilling game with these flavorful skewers, perfect for a summer barbecue or quick weeknight dinner. The combination of tender tuna, sweet pineapple, and crunchy bell peppers is a match made in heaven!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna steak, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced into 1-inch strips
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread tuna, pineapple, and bell peppers onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, olive oil, and garlic. Brush the mixture evenly over the skewers.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill for 8-10 minutes per side, or until tuna is cooked through and slightly charred.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Tuna and White Bean Salad with Fresh Herbs
This refreshing salad combines the protein-packed punch of tuna with the creamy texture of cannellini beans, all tied together with a burst of fresh herbs. Perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of cooked cannellini beans
– 1/2 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
– 2 tablespoons of olive oil
– 2 tablespoons of lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the tuna, cannellini beans, parsley, and basil.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Fresh Tuna Sashimi with Pickled Ginger
Experience the simplicity and elegance of traditional Japanese cuisine with this refreshing recipe for Fresh Tuna Sashimi with Pickled Ginger.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna, sliced into thin pieces
– 1/2 cup pickled ginger, thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup wasabi paste
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, wasabi paste, rice vinegar, and sesame oil.
2. Arrange the tuna slices on a serving plate or individual plates.
3. Place a few pieces of pickled ginger on top of the tuna.
4. Drizzle the soy sauce mixture over the tuna and ginger.
5. Garnish with thinly sliced green onions and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Tuna Lettuce Wraps with Spicy Mayo
A refreshing twist on traditional sushi rolls, these tuna lettuce wraps are perfect for a quick and easy lunch or snack. With the added kick of spicy mayo, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 2 tablespoons of mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon of sriracha sauce (or to taste)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: sesame seeds, chopped green onions, or diced cucumber for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, mix together the tuna, mayonnaise, and sriracha sauce until well combined.
2. Place a lettuce leaf on a flat surface and spoon about 1/4 cup of the tuna mixture onto the center of the leaf.
3. Fold the bottom half of the leaf up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap to form a neat package.
4. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
5. Serve immediately, or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 hours.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is quick and easy, with no cooking required.
Seared Tuna with Sesame Crust and Ponzu Sauce
Experience the perfect harmony of Asian-inspired flavors with this simple yet impressive seared tuna recipe. Pan-seared to perfection, the sesame-crusted tuna is served with a tangy ponzu sauce that adds a burst of citrus freshness.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup sesame seeds
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sugar
– 1/4 cup vegetable oil
– Ponzu sauce (store-bought or homemade)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix sesame seeds, soy sauce, and sugar.
3. Brush both sides of the tuna steaks with vegetable oil and coat evenly with the sesame mixture.
4. Sear the tuna for 1-2 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
5. Serve immediately with ponzu sauce spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 4-6 minutes total
Tuna and Quinoa Bowl with Fresh Veggies
A nutritious and flavorful bowl filled with protein-rich tuna, fiber-packed quinoa, and a variety of fresh vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 1 can (5 oz) tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, quinoa, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the top and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Fresh Tuna Pasta with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
This vibrant pasta dish combines the freshness of cherry tomatoes and basil with the rich flavor of seared tuna, all wrapped up in a light and zesty sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer evening gathering.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz fresh tuna steak
– 12 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear tuna steak for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and cook for 1 minute. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until they start to release their juices.
4. Stir in chopped basil and season with salt and pepper to taste. Toss cooked pasta with tomato mixture, adding reserved pasta water as needed to achieve desired consistency.
5. Slice tuna steak into thin strips and serve on top of pasta. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tuna and Avocado Toast with Chili Flakes
Elevate your breakfast or snack game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, combining the creaminess of avocado, the richness of tuna, and a kick of heat from chili flakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1 ripe avocado, mashed
– 2 slices of whole grain bread
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Optional: lemon wedges for garnish
Instructions:
1. Toast the bread until lightly browned.
2. Spread the mashed avocado on top of the toast.
3. Mix the tuna with a fork until flaked, then spoon it over the avocado.
4. Sprinkle salt and pepper to taste, followed by a pinch of chili flakes for an added kick.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with lemon wedges if desired.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Get ready to hook yourself up with some delicious tuna recipes! In this article, we’ve got 20 mouthwatering dishes that will take your taste buds on a fishing trip around the world. From fresh and flavorful poke bowls to sushi rolls and grilled steaks, there’s something for every tuna lover. Try making a Mediterranean salad with olives and feta, or go bold with spicy sushi rolls and crispy wonton chips. Whatever your preference, we’ve got you covered with these 20 simple yet impressive tuna recipes that are sure to reel in the compliments!
