12 Easy Ahi Tuna Recipes For A No-Stress Dinner

Prep the Tuna: Pat the tuna steaks dry with a paper towel and place them on a plate or in a shallow dish.

Make the Marinade: In a small bowl, whisk together tamari or soy sauce, sesame oil, maple syrup, sea salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika (if using). Ensure the sweetener is fully dissolved. Pour the marinade over the tuna, turning the steaks to coat evenly. Optional: Set aside a small amount of marinade for drizzling over the tuna after cooking. Allow the tuna to marinate for at least 10-15 minutes, or refrigerate for up to 6 hours for a deeper flavor.

Heat the Pan: Place a skillet (preferably cast iron or a well-seasoned stainless steel pan) over medium-high heat. Allow it to get very hot, about 2-3 minutes for cast iron or 1 minute for nonstick.

Sear the Tuna: Add avocado oil to the hot pan. Carefully place the tuna steaks into the skillet. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust cooking time based on your desired level of doneness. The exterior should develop a golden crust while the center remains tender.

Serve and Garnish: Transfer the tuna steaks to a cutting board and let them rest for 1 minute. Slice into 1/2-inch thick slices. Plate the slices and drizzle with reserved marinade, if desired. Garnish with scallions, sesame seeds, and a squeeze of fresh lemon or lime juice for a bright, zesty finish.

Pair and Enjoy: Serve your seared tuna with a side of steamed vegetables, rice, or a light salad for a complete meal.