When it comes to seafood, few options are as versatile and flavorful as tuna. With its meaty texture and rich omega-3 content, tuna is a staple in many cuisines around the world. From sushi-grade sashimi to hearty pasta salads, there’s no shortage of ways to prepare this delicious fish. In this article, we’ll dive into 20 mouth-watering tuna recipes that will take your taste buds on a global culinary journey.
From classic dishes like seared ahi tuna with ginger soy glaze to modern twists like tuna burgers with wasabi aioli, these recipes showcase the best of what tuna has to offer. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out in the kitchen, there’s something for everyone in this collection of fresh and flavorful tuna recipes.
Fresh Tuna Poke Bowl with Avocado and Sesame
Enjoy a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe that combines the freshness of tuna, creamy avocado, and nutty sesame.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade tuna, cut into small cubes
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked white rice (for serving)
– Optional: sliced green onions, pickled ginger
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together soy sauce and sesame oil.
2. Add the tuna cubes to the marinade and let it sit for 5-7 minutes.
3. Divide cooked white rice into bowls.
4. Arrange the marinated tuna on top of the rice.
5. Spoon diced avocado over the tuna.
6. Sprinkle sesame seeds and a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with sliced green onions and pickled ginger, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes (including marinating time)
Seared Ahi Tuna with Ginger Soy Glaze
This recipe combines the rich flavor of ahi tuna with the bold and savory taste of ginger soy glaze, making for an unforgettable dining experience. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you can create this impressive dish at home.
Ingredients:
– 4 ahi tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated fresh ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic to make the glaze.
3. Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper.
4. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the preheated pan and sear the 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. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions if desired.
7. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Grilled Tuna Steak with Mango Salsa
Grilled Tuna Steak with Mango Salsa: A flavorful and refreshing summer dish that combines the richness of grilled tuna with the sweetness of mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season tuna steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Grill tuna for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a bowl, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and garlic.
5. Serve grilled tuna with mango salsa spooned over the top.
6. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Tuna Tartare with Crispy Wonton Chips
Elevate your appetizer game with this refreshing and flavorful tuna tartare, paired with crispy wonton chips that add a satisfying crunch.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup sushi-grade tuna, diced
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
– Wonton wrappers (about 12-15 sheets)
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, soy sauce, lime juice, sesame oil, and ginger. Mix gently until well combined.
2. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Preheat a deep fryer or about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
4. Fry wonton wrappers in batches until crispy, about 30 seconds per batch. Drain on paper towels.
5. To serve, place tuna tartare on a plate and garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve with crispy wonton chips for dipping.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (including chilling time)
Mediterranean Tuna Salad with Olives and Feta
Mediterranean Tuna Salad with Olives and Feta: A flavorful and refreshing salad that combines the richness of tuna with the tanginess of feta, all tied together with the savory flavors of olives.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the flaked tuna, sliced olives, and crumbled feta.
2. Drizzle the olive oil and lemon juice over the mixture, tossing gently to combine.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley, if desired.
5. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes.
Spicy Tuna Sushi Rolls with Fresh Cucumber
Elevate your sushi game with this refreshing and spicy twist on classic tuna rolls.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained)
– 1/2 cup of short-grain Japanese rice
– 1/4 cup of water
– 1 tablespoon of soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon of sesame oil
– 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cucumber slices for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the sushi rice according to package instructions.
2. In a medium bowl, mix together tuna, soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and red pepper flakes until well combined.
3. Lay a sheet of nori seaweed flat on a cutting board. Spread a thin layer of sushi rice onto the seaweed, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
4. Place about 1 tablespoon of the tuna mixture in the middle of the rice.
5. Roll the sushi using a bamboo mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure to form a compact roll.
6. Slice into 8 equal pieces and serve with fresh cucumber slices.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes (depending on preparation time)
Tuna Nicoise Salad with Green Beans and Eggs
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of tuna, green beans, eggs, and olives, making it a perfect light meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1 cup of fresh green beans, trimmed
– 2 hard-boiled eggs, sliced
– 1/4 cup of pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 tablespoon of olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a pot of water to a boil and blanch the green beans for 3-5 minutes or until tender. Drain and set aside.
2. In a separate pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the sliced eggs and cook for about 30 seconds on each side, until lightly browned.
3. In a large bowl, combine the flaked tuna, green beans, sliced eggs, and pitted olives.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme if desired.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pan-Seared Tuna with Lemon Caper Sauce
Elevate your dinner game with this elegant yet effortless recipe. Pan-seared tuna, infused with the bright flavors of lemon and capers, makes for a delightful and sophisticated meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp capers, rinsed and drained
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Season the tuna steaks with salt and pepper.
3. Add olive oil to the preheated skillet and sear the tuna for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to desired doneness.
4. Meanwhile, combine lemon juice, vinegar, garlic, capers, and butter in a small saucepan.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook until slightly thickened (about 5 minutes).
6. Serve the seared tuna with the warm Lemon Caper Sauce spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Fresh Tuna Ceviche with Lime and Cilantro
Experience the bold flavors of Mexico with this refreshing ceviche recipe featuring fresh tuna, lime juice, and cilantro. Perfect for a light and zesty appetizer or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sashimi-grade tuna steak, cut into small pieces
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the tuna pieces and lime juice. Make sure the fish is completely covered by the lime juice.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours to allow the fish to “cook” in the lime juice.
3. Just before serving, stir in the chopped cilantro and jalapeño pepper.
4. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes – 2 hours (depending on marinating time)
Tuna Stuffed Avocados with Sriracha Mayo
Tuna Stuffed Avocados with Sriracha Mayo Recipe Summary:
Elevate your snack game with this creamy and spicy treat, featuring tuna-packed avocados smothered in a zesty Sriracha mayo.
Ingredients:
– 3 ripe avocados
– 1 (5 oz) can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tbsp mayonnaise
– 1 tsp Sriracha sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cut the avocados in half and remove the pit.
2. In a bowl, mix together the tuna, Greek yogurt, mayonnaise, and Sriracha sauce until well combined.
3. Spoon the tuna mixture into the avocado halves, dividing it evenly among the three.
4. Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time:
– Prep time: 10 minutes
– Total time: 15 minutes
Tuna and White Bean Salad with Fresh Herbs
This refreshing salad combines the protein-rich tuna with creamy cannellini beans, fresh herbs, and a hint of lemon zest. Perfect for a quick lunch or light dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 can (6 oz) of tuna in water, drained and flaked
– 1 cup cooked cannellini beans
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 clove garlic, minced (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine tuna, beans, parsley, lemon juice, and garlic (if using). Mix well.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: None
Blackened Tuna Tacos with Cabbage Slaw
Elevate your taco game with this bold and refreshing recipe that combines the richness of blackened tuna with the crunch of cabbage slaw. Perfect for a quick and flavorful meal or snack.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– 1 tsp blackening seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Cabbage Slaw:
+ 1 small head of cabbage, shredded
+ 1/4 cup lime juice
+ 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
+ Salt and pepper to taste
– Sliced avocado, lime wedges, and cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat a skillet over medium-high heat. Season the tuna steaks with blackening seasoning.
2. Add olive oil to the skillet and sear the tuna for 3-4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, prepare the Cabbage Slaw by mixing all ingredients in a bowl.
4. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
5. Assemble tacos by placing blackened tuna on tortillas, topping with cabbage slaw and garnishing with avocado, lime wedges, and cilantro (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Tuna Carpaccio with Arugula and Parmesan
A refreshing take on the classic Italian appetizer, this tuna carpaccio recipe combines the richness of Parmesan cheese with the peppery flavor of arugula.
Ingredients:
– 12 oz sashimi-grade tuna
– 4 oz arugula
– 1/2 cup shaved Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Slice the tuna into thin pieces and place on a serving plate or individual plates.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and a pinch of salt and pepper.
3. Drizzle the lemon mixture over the tuna slices.
4. Top the tuna with arugula leaves and shaved Parmesan cheese.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (no cooking required!)
Fresh Tuna Burgers with Wasabi Aioli
A refreshing twist on traditional burgers, these tuna patties are packed with flavor and topped with a zesty wasabi aioli. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 can of fresh tuna (drained), about 6 oz
- 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 egg, lightly beaten
- 1 tablespoon chopped green onions for garnish
- Wasabi Aioli (recipe below)
Instructions:
- Mix tuna, panko breadcrumbs, garlic, soy sauce, and sesame oil in a bowl.
- Add the egg and mix until just combined. Be careful not to overmix.
- Shape into 2-3 patties depending on desired size.
- Cook in a non-stick skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat for about 4 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: About 8-10 minutes
Wasabi Aioli Recipe
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons wasabi paste
- Salt to taste
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve on top of tuna burgers.
Tuna and Quinoa Power Bowl with Fresh Veggies
A nutrient-packed bowl that combines the protein-richness of tuna, the fiber-boosting power of quinoa, and a medley of fresh veggies.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 6 oz canned tuna (drained and flaked)
– 2 cups mixed greens (such as arugula, spinach, and lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell peppers
– 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
2. In a separate bowl, combine tuna, mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and red bell peppers.
3. Top the bowl with cooked quinoa and sprinkle cilantro on top.
4. Drizzle lemon juice over the bowl and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including cooking time for quinoa)
Citrus-Marinated Tuna Skewers with Fresh Mint
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these refreshing and flavorful tuna skewers, marinated in a zesty citrus mixture and garnished with fragrant fresh mint.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound sushi-grade tuna steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh mint leaves
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together orange and grapefruit juices, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Add tuna cubes to the marinade, tossing to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated tuna onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with fresh mint leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes total
Tuna Pasta Salad with Cherry Tomatoes and Basil
A refreshing and flavorful pasta salad perfect for a light lunch or dinner. This recipe combines the protein-rich tuna with the sweetness of cherry tomatoes, all wrapped up with fresh basil leaves.
Ingredients:
– 8 oz. pasta (bowtie or penne work well)
– 1 can of tuna in water (drained and flaked)
– 1 pint of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh basil
– 2 tbsp. olive oil
– 1 tsp. lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large bowl, combine the tuna, cherry tomatoes, and basil.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
4. Pour the dressing over the tuna mixture and toss to coat.
5. Add cooked pasta to the bowl and toss until well combined.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Seared Tuna with Fresh Pineapple Salsa
Elevate your dinner game with this refreshing combination of seared tuna and tangy pineapple salsa. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Vegetable oil, for cooking
– Fresh Pineapple Salsa (recipe below)
Fresh Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 ripe pineapple, diced
– 1/2 red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Juice of 1 lime
– Cilantro leaves, for garnish
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 a small amount of vegetable oil to the pan and sear the tuna for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked to your desired level of doneness.
4. Remove the tuna from the pan and let it rest for a few minutes.
5. Serve the seared tuna with a spoonful of fresh pineapple salsa.
Cooking Time: 6-8 minutes
Tuna and Chickpea Lettuce Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines the protein-packed power of tuna with the creamy texture of chickpeas, all wrapped up in a crisp lettuce leaf.
Ingredients:
– 1 can of tuna (drained and flaked)
– 1/2 cup cooked chickpeas
– 2 tablespoons mayonnaise
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, mix together the tuna, chickpeas, mayonnaise, and parsley until well combined.
2. Lay a lettuce leaf flat on a clean surface.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the tuna-chickpea mixture onto the center of the lettuce leaf.
4. Fold the bottom half of the lettuce up over the filling, then fold in the sides and roll up the wrap to form a neat package.
5. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: 5 minutes
Fresh Tuna Sashimi with Pickled Ginger
Fresh Tuna Sashimi with Pickled Ginger Recipe
Savor the delicate flavor of sashimi-grade tuna paired with the tangy zip of pickled ginger. This classic Japanese dish is a staple for any sushi lover.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb fresh tuna (sashimi-grade), cut into thin slices
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced pickled ginger (see below)
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon wasabi paste (optional)
Pickled Ginger Recipe:
– 1/2 cup thinly sliced fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup rice vinegar
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. Prepare the pickled ginger: In a small bowl, combine sliced ginger, rice vinegar, sugar, and water. Let it sit at room temperature for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
2. Assemble the sashimi: Place a slice of tuna on a plate or serving dish. Drizzle with soy sauce and wasabi paste (if using).
3. Serve with pickled ginger: Arrange sliced pickled ginger alongside the tuna.
Cooking Time:
– None, as this is a raw fish dish.
Summary
Get ready to reel in the flavor with these 20 delicious tuna recipes! From fresh and flavorful poke bowls to spicy sushi rolls, this collection has something for every taste bud. Savor the richness of seared ahi tuna with ginger soy glaze or try your hand at grilling tuna steak with mango salsa. Whether you’re in the mood for something light and refreshing like a Mediterranean tuna salad or something more adventurous like blackened tuna tacos, these recipes are sure to hook you from the start. Dive in and discover your new favorite way to enjoy tuna!
