Seared Tuna Steaks

Seared tuna steaks cooked quickly in a hot pan for a flavorful crust and tender, rare center. This easy tuna steak recipe uses simple ingredients like fresh tuna, salt, pepper, and oil, making it ideal for fast weeknight dinners or healthy seafood meals. Perfect with lemon, salads, or rice, pan seared tuna steaks are a popular choice for light, high-protein meals with restaurant-style results at home.

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks (6–8 oz each)
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon neutral oil (grapeseed, avocado, or canola)
• Lemon wedges, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat a large, heavy-bottomed sauté pan or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot.
2. Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear.
3. Season both sides of the tuna generously with salt and pepper.
4. Add the oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot and shimmering, carefully place the tuna steaks in the pan.
5. Sear for 30 seconds to 1 minute per side, depending on how rare you prefer the center.
6. Remove the tuna from the pan and let it rest for about 5 minutes.
7. Using a sharp knife, slice the tuna thinly and serve with lemon wedges on the side, if desired.

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Tips

• Make sure the pan is very hot before adding the tuna for the best crust.
• Use sushi-grade tuna for optimal flavor and texture.
• Avoid overcooking; tuna is best served rare to medium-rare.

Variations and Substitutions

• Season the tuna with sesame seeds or a light spice rub before searing.
• Replace lemon with lime or a splash of rice vinegar for a different finish.
• Use olive oil if preferred, though a neutral oil gives a cleaner taste.

FAQs

How do I know when the tuna is done?
The outside should be lightly browned while the center remains pink and cool.

Can I cook tuna longer if I prefer it well done?
Yes, but the texture will be firmer and less tender.

Should I marinate the tuna?
Marinating is optional; simple seasoning highlights the natural flavor of the fish.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve over a green salad or with steamed vegetables.
• Pair with rice, quinoa, or sesame noodles.
• Add a dipping sauce such as soy sauce or wasabi mayo.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare
• Restaurant-quality results at home
• Clean, fresh flavors with minimal ingredients
• Versatile and perfect for light meals or elegant dinners