Description
This Tuna Steaks recipe offers a simple and flavorful way to enjoy perfectly seared tuna. Marinated in fresh lemon juice and parsley, then cooked in a hot skillet with olive oil and butter, the tuna steaks achieve a tender, juicy texture with a delicious herbaceous finish. Ideal for a quick and healthy dinner, this dish balances bright citrus flavors with the richness of butter and olive oil.
Ingredients
Scale
Seafood
- 2 tuna steaks (about 6 ounces each)
Marinade & Seasoning
- 1 fresh lemon (for juice and serving)
- 1 cup chopped fresh parsley or 1/2 cup dried parsley flakes
- 1/2 tbsp dried dill weed (optional)
Cooking Fats
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp butter
Instructions
- Thaw the Tuna Steaks: If your tuna steaks are frozen and wrapped in plastic, place them in a bowl of cold water for 5-8 minutes to thaw gently without compromising the texture.
- Prepare the Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the mixture is hot but not smoking.
- Season the Tuna: Unwrap the tuna steaks and marinate them by tossing gently with the juice of one fresh lemon and chopped fresh parsley. For a different flavor profile, you can substitute lime juice and cilantro instead. Optionally sprinkle with 1/2 tablespoon of dried dill weed.
- Cook the Tuna: Place the marinated tuna steaks into the hot skillet, pouring any remaining marinade over the fish. Cook each side for 2-3 minutes depending on thickness, searing them until the exterior is golden and the interior reaches your preferred doneness—rare to medium-rare is recommended to keep the tuna tender and moist.
- Serve: Transfer the cooked tuna steaks to plates. Serve immediately with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top for brightness and a fresh taste.
Notes
- Use fresh, sushi-grade tuna steaks for the best flavor and texture.
- Do not overcook tuna as it can become dry and lose its delicate flavor.
- For added zest, you may include a pinch of freshly ground black pepper or red chili flakes to the marinade.
- Substitute parsley with fresh cilantro and lemon with lime for a different but equally delicious flavor.
- If fresh parsley is not available, dried parsley flakes work well but use half the quantity.
- Serve with steamed vegetables or a light salad to keep the dish healthy and balanced.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Searing
- Cuisine: International
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tuna steak with marinade
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 1 g
- Sodium: 50 mg
- Fat: 22 g
- Saturated Fat: 7 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 1 g
- Fiber: 0.5 g
- Protein: 35 g
- Cholesterol: 70 mg
Keywords: tuna steaks, seared tuna, lemon parsley marinade, healthy seafood recipe, quick dinner