Learn how to perfectly sear tuna steaks for a quick, healthy, and delicious meal. This recipe focuses on simple techniques for a restaurant-quality result at home.
Author:katereilly
Prep Time:5 min
Cook Time:5 min
Total Time:10 min
Yield:2 servings 1x
Category:Dinner
Method:Searing
Cuisine:American
Diet:Low Fat
Ingredients
Scale
2 tuna steaks (about 6 oz each)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional: sesame seeds, soy sauce, wasabi for serving
Instructions
Pat the tuna steaks completely dry with paper towels. This helps create a good sear.
Season both sides of the tuna steaks generously with salt and black pepper.
Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet (like cast iron) over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
Carefully place the tuna steaks in the hot skillet.
Sear for 1 to 2 minutes per side for rare, or 2 to 3 minutes per side for medium-rare. Adjust time based on your desired doneness. Avoid overcooking, as tuna can become dry.
Remove the tuna steaks from the skillet and let them rest for a minute or two before slicing.
Serve immediately, optionally with sesame seeds, soy sauce, or wasabi.
Notes
For a different flavor, you can marinate the tuna steaks for 15-30 minutes before searing. A simple marinade could include soy sauce, ginger, and garlic.
If you prefer a more well-done tuna steak, you can finish it in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for a few minutes after searing.
Ensure your skillet is very hot before adding the tuna to achieve a proper sear.