Learn how to make sesame seared tuna with avocado, cucumber, and lime ponzu sauce. A healthy, fresh, restaurant quality recipe ready in under 20 minutes. This is one of my all time favorite things to eat. I like to use the Tuna steaks from Publix because they have them portioned with the bloodline meaning that the fish fillets retain that dark, iron rich, and oily, dark red muscle tissue running along the backbone and the skin is removed, which gives it a milder flavor.
Sesame Seared Tuna Recipe Just Works
If you’re like me then you are going to love this fresh, and clean flavor meal that feel fancy without being complicated. You are going to want to keep this recipe close, so that you can have it as many times as you like. It combines tender steaks with creamy avocado, crisp cucumber, bright citrus ponzu, and just enough heat from sweet chili sauce to keep things exciting.
This dish is:
- High quality lean protein
- Rich in omega3 fatty acids
- Supports heart and brain health
- Keeps you full without feeling heavy
- Naturally low carb
- Packed with healthy fats
- Perfect for lunch or dinner
- Ready in under 20 minutes
When paired with avocado (which is one of my favorites, they rich in monounsaturated fat, fiber, and potassium, they aid heart health, satiety, and nutrient absorption) and sesame oil, this dish delivers a balanced combination of protein and healthy fats. You can make this dish in about 20 minutes at home, even though it’s the kind of meal you would expect at an upscale restaurant.
Start with these Simple and Fresh Ingredients:
Main Ingredients
- 4 fresh tuna steaks (4 oz each)
- 3 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1/2 seedless cucumber, thinly sliced
- 1/3 cup lime (citrus) ponzu sauce
- 2 tablespoons sweet chili sauce
- 1 ripe avocado, sliced
- 8 tablespoons fresh green onions, chopped
Step 1: Prep the Tuna: Pat the steaks dry with a paper towel. This helps achieve a beautifully seared piece of fish. Now lightly brush both sides with sesame oil.
Step 2: Heat the Pan: Heat a non-stick or cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until very hot. You want the pan hot enough to sear quickly without overcooking the center.
Step 3: Sear the Tuna: Place the steaks in the pan and sear them for about 45 to 60 seconds per side for rare and 90 seconds per side for medium rare. Remove immediately and let rest for 2 minutes. Make sure not to overcook. (Fresh tuna steaks are prized for their meaty texture and clean flavor. When they are quickly seared, the outside develops a savory crust while the inside stays tender and rare.)
Step 4: Slice & Assemble: Slice the seared steaks against the grain into half inch pieces. Arrange on a plate with Sliced avocado, Fresh cucumber, Green onions sprinkled on top
Step 5: Finish with Sauce, Drizzle: Lime ponzu sauce, Sweet chili sauce
Now you are ready to eat, serve immediately.
You are going to be amazed at the flavors your mouth is about to experience. Not only are you going to enjoy the flavors of this dish, it is also healthy for you. No guilt! Imagine eating healthy and getting a savory and nutty flavor from the sesame oil, a cool crunch from the cucumber, creamy flavor from the avocado (my favorite) and a bright and citrusy taste from the lime and do not forget the gentle heat from the sweet chili sauce. Nothing is overpowering, every bite is balanced.
Other Serving Suggestions
This dish is also good with the following things that I like; and that you might want to try as well:
- Cauliflower rice
- Seaweed salad (my grandson loves this one)
- Light miso soup
- Steamed jasmine rice
- Chilled white wine or sparkling water with lime (oh this is making me hungry)
- Spicy version with Sriraha
- Mixed greens
For me this dish is better enjoyed fresh, that is why I mention earlier to serve immediately. Do not reheat and make sure to only store the leftovers up to 24 hours in an airtight container. If you are like me and my family there will not be any leftovers to store. Just saying!
Simple ingredients can help you create unforgettable meals, and this healthy dish is the proof. No stress whether you are cooking for yourself, family or dinner guest this recipe delivers freshness, flavor and balance.
I watch Chef David a lot when I am looking for ideas to try on my family. Listen to his instruction on searing different proteins, check him out:
I love simple, delicious recipes that are made with real ingredients that are budget friendly, easy to make. I get inspired when I plate this recipe up because it makes me feel like I am a chef in the making. Sometimes you are not sure what you are capable of until you actually try something different.