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Seared Ahi Tuna Salad Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 115 reviews

This Seared Ahi Tuna Salad is a light yet satisfying dish featuring sushi-grade ahi tuna perfectly seared to achieve a tender, rare center and a caramelized crust. Paired with fresh mixed greens, creamy avocado, and crisp cucumber, the salad is dressed in a tangy umami blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, fresh ginger, garlic, and citrus juice. Toasted sesame seeds add a delightful crunch, making this salad a fresh, flavorful, and nutritious meal ideal for a quick lunch or dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

Salad

  • 1 Sushi-Grade Ahi Tuna Steak (firm texture and mild, fresh flavor perfect for searing rare)
  • 2 cups Mixed Greens (combination of arugula, spinach, or baby lettuces)
  • 1 medium Avocado (adds creamy richness and healthy fats)
  • ½ cup Cucumber (sliced for crispness and coolness)
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Seeds (toasted for nuttiness and crunch)

Dressing

  • 2 tablespoons Soy Sauce or Tamari (for savory umami seasoning and dressing base)
  • 1 teaspoon Fresh Ginger (grated or finely chopped for aromatic depth)
  • 1 clove Garlic (minced for gentle bite in the dressing)
  • 1 tablespoon Sesame Oil (for dressing and flavor)
  • 1 tablespoon Citrus Juice (freshly squeezed, such as lime or lemon)

For Searing

  • 1 teaspoon Oil with high smoke point (such as avocado or grapeseed oil for searing)
  • Salt and Pepper (to taste for seasoning the tuna)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Dressing: Whisk together soy sauce, fresh ginger, garlic, sesame oil, and citrus juice in a small bowl. This combination brightens the salad and ties all flavors together with its tangy, umami notes.
  2. Season the Tuna: Pat the ahi tuna dry with paper towels to ensure a good sear, then season generously with salt and pepper on all sides. Drying and seasoning the fish helps build a flavorful crust and seals in moisture.
  3. Heat the Skillet: Use a cast iron or heavy-bottomed pan and heat it over high heat until very hot. Add a small amount of oil with a high smoke point like avocado or grapeseed oil to prevent sticking.
  4. Sear the Tuna: Place the tuna steak in the hot pan and cook undisturbed for about 1-2 minutes per side, depending on thickness. This quick sear locks in a tender, rare center while creating a caramelized crust on the outside.
  5. Slice the Tuna: Rest the tuna for a couple of minutes after searing, then cut it thinly against the grain to maximize tenderness and showcase the rosy interior.
  6. Assemble the Salad: Toss the mixed greens, sliced cucumber, and avocado in a light drizzle of the prepared dressing. Arrange the tuna slices on top, sprinkle with toasted sesame seeds, and optionally garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or scallions for extra brightness.

Notes

  • Quick and easy preparation with minimal ingredients and fast searing.
  • Use sushi-grade ahi tuna for best safety and flavor.
  • Prepare the dressing ahead for richer taste if desired.
  • Store tuna and salad separately to prevent sogginess.
  • Reheat tuna gently and serve greens fresh.
  • Gluten-free option: use tamari instead of soy sauce.

Keywords: Seared Ahi Tuna Salad, Ahi Tuna Salad, Sushi Grade Tuna, Healthy Salad, Sesame Dressing, Quick Salad Recipe, Japanese Inspired Salad, Gluten Free Salad, Low Carb Salad

Find it online: https://islawhite.com/seared-ahi-tuna-salad-recipe/