Pan-Seared Tuna with Lemon Herb Crust

🕒 Prep: 5 min
🔥 Cook: 4 min
🍽 Serves: 8

If you’re looking to elevate your dinner game with minimal effort, this Pan-Seared Tuna with Lemon Herb Crust will do the trick. It’s the kind of dish that feels fancy yet is incredibly easy to pull together on a weeknight. Fresh, vibrant flavors make it perfect for any season.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare—dinner is ready in under 15 minutes.
  • Combines fresh herbs and citrus for a bright, zesty flavor.
  • Uses just a handful of ingredients, keeping it simple and elegant.
  • Healthy and protein-rich, perfect for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

2 fresh tuna steaks (about 1 inch thick)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 lemon, zested
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 clove garlic, minced

Ingredients Explained

The star of the show is the tuna steaks, offering a meaty yet delicate base. You’ll want them about 1 inch thick for optimal cooking. Olive oil helps create a beautiful sear while adding a subtle richness. Salt and black pepper are your basic seasoning duo, enhancing the natural flavors of the fish. Lemon zest is where the magic happens, infusing the dish with a bright, citrusy aroma. Fresh parsley and thyme add a herby freshness, while garlic brings a gentle warmth and depth.

Tips & Tricks

  • For extra flavor, let the tuna marinate in the herb mixture for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • A cast-iron skillet can be used for even better searing if you have one available.
  • Always preheat your pan well to avoid sticking and ensure a good crust.

Detailed Instructions

First, take your tuna steaks and pat them dry with paper towels. This step is crucial to achieving a good sear, as moisture can hinder caramelization. Season both sides with salt and black pepper, ensuring an even coating.

In a small bowl, combine the lemon zest, parsley, thyme, and minced garlic. This simple mixture is what’ll give your tuna a burst of fresh flavor.

Rub olive oil over the tuna steaks; it helps the herb mixture stick and promotes a nice crust. Then, press the lemon herb mix onto one side of each steak, taking care to coat them evenly.

Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough so the tuna sizzles as soon as it hits the pan. Place the steaks in the skillet, herb-side up, and let them sear undisturbed for about 2 minutes. This helps develop a nice crust.

Carefully flip the steaks and cook for another 2 minutes. The goal is a nice pink center, but feel free to adjust the time based on your preferred doneness. Once done, remove from heat and let the steaks rest for a minute. This allows the juices to redistribute for a juicy bite.

Simplified Instructions

1. Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and black pepper.
2. In a small bowl, mix together the lemon zest, parsley, thyme, and minced garlic.
3. Rub the olive oil over the tuna steaks, then press the lemon herb mixture onto one side of each steak.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat until hot.
5. Place the steaks in the skillet, herb-side up, and sear for about 2 minutes.
6. Carefully flip the steaks and cook for another 2 minutes, or until desired doneness is achieved.
7. Remove from heat and let rest for a minute before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple arugula salad tossed with olive oil and lemon juice. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside quinoa or roasted vegetables. A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, complements the citrusy notes beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen tuna steaks?
Yes, just make sure they are fully thawed and patted dry before cooking.
How can I tell if the tuna is done?
Look for a pink center, similar to medium-rare steak. The outside should be opaque.
What if I don’t have fresh herbs?
You can substitute with dried herbs, but use about a third of the amount as they are more concentrated.

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