Seared Herb-Crusted Tuna Steaks

🕒 Prep: 20 min
🔥 Cook: 6 min
🍽 Serves: 2
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Seared Herb-Crusted Tuna Steaks are a delightful way to turn a simple dinner into a gourmet experience. The fresh herbs bring out the natural flavor of the tuna, making this dish both refreshing and satisfying. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an impressive dinner party offering.

Ingredients for Seared Herb-Crusted Tuna Steaks

Tuna steaks are the star of the show here, offering a meaty and satisfying texture. Choose fresh, high-quality cuts for the best results. The olive oil not only helps to coat the tuna with the herbs but also adds a rich taste and aids in the searing process. Lemon juice provides a zesty brightness that complements the richness of the tuna. The trio of fresh herbs — rosemary, thyme, and parsley — infuse the fish with an aromatic depth. Garlic adds a subtle pungency, rounding out the flavors. Finally, salt and pepper enhance all the other ingredients, ensuring everything pops.

Tips & Tricks

  • Use a cast-iron skillet for even heat distribution and perfect searing.
  • Press the tuna steaks gently with a spatula while searing to ensure even contact with the skillet.
  • Don’t skip the resting step — it makes a big difference in flavor and texture.

Serving Suggestions

Pair these Seared Herb-Crusted Tuna Steaks with a light, crisp salad or some roasted vegetables to complement the flavors. A side of couscous or quinoa can add a delightful, nutty texture. For a refreshing touch, try serving with a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or an iced herbal tea.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?
Yes, but use about half the amount since dried herbs are more concentrated.
How do I know when the tuna is done?
For medium-rare, the tuna should be slightly pink in the center. Use a meat thermometer if you're unsure — around 125°F is a good target for medium-rare.

Seared Herb-Crusted Tuna Steaks Recipe Walkthrough

Start by rinsing the tuna steaks under cold water, then pat them dry with paper towels. This step is essential to ensure the marinade adheres properly. In a shallow dish, combine olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, parsley, garlic, and a generous pinch of salt and pepper. Stir until well mixed. Place the tuna steaks in the dish, ensuring they are well coated with the herb mixture. Let them sit for about 20 minutes so the flavors can meld.

While the tuna is marinating, heat a skillet over medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to sear the fish quickly and lock in the juices. Once the skillet is ready, add the tuna steaks. Sear them for 2–3 minutes on each side if you prefer them medium-rare. If you like them more done, you can leave them a bit longer, but keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.

After searing, remove the tuna from the heat and let it rest for a minute or two. This brief rest period allows the juices to redistribute, making each bite tender and flavorful. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Quick and easy to prepare — perfect for busy evenings.
  • Packed with fresh, vibrant flavors from the herbs and lemon.
  • Healthy and nutritious, ideal for a balanced meal.
  • Elegant presentation that impresses guests.

Ingredients

2 tuna steaks (6 oz each)
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
1 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
1 tbsp garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste

Step-by-step Instructions

1. Rinse and pat dry the tuna steaks.
2. In a shallow dish, mix olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, thyme, parsley, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Coat the tuna steaks with the herb mixture and let them marinate for 20 minutes.
4. Heat a skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Add the tuna steaks to the skillet and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if desired.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a minute before serving.

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