Lemon Herb Tuna Steaks Skillet Recipe

Introduction

Tuna steaks offer a delicious and healthy meal that’s quick to prepare. With a simple marinade of lemon and herbs, these steaks are packed with fresh, vibrant flavors perfect for any dinner.

A thick, triangular piece of fish sits centered on a white plate, showing three clear layers: the top layer is golden brown with toasted edges and sprinkled with crushed peppercorns and green herbs; the middle layer is a thick, moist white flesh with specks of seasoning; the bottom is lighter and slightly translucent where the sauce pools beneath. A fresh sprig of green herbs decorates the top near the center, and to the right of the fish is a bright yellow lemon wedge resting in the sauce. The plate is placed on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

  • 2 tuna steaks
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 1 fresh lemon
  • 1 cup chopped fresh parsley or 1/2 cup dried parsley flakes
  • 1/2 tbsp dried dill weed (optional)

Instructions

  1. Step 1: Thaw the tuna steaks if frozen by placing them, still wrapped, in a bowl of water for 5-8 minutes until thawed.
  2. Step 2: Heat olive oil and butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until hot and melted.
  3. Step 3: Unwrap the tuna steaks and marinate them with lemon juice and parsley. For a different twist, try using lime juice and cilantro instead.
  4. Step 4: Place the tuna steaks in the hot skillet, pour in any remaining marinade, and cook to your preferred doneness—typically 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
  5. Step 5: Plate the tuna steaks and finish with a fresh squeeze of lemon before serving.

Tips & Variations

  • Use fresh herbs whenever possible for the best flavor.
  • Adding a pinch of black pepper or garlic powder to the marinade can enhance the taste.
  • For an extra touch, serve with a side of sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad.

Storage

Store leftover cooked tuna steaks in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or enjoy cold in salads to avoid overcooking.

How to Serve

A thick, triangular piece of white fish with three visible horizontal layers sits on a white plate. The top layer is golden brown with a crispy texture, covered with cracked black pepper and green herb bits. The middle and bottom layers are soft and translucent white, showing the fish’s natural flake pattern. The fish rests in a pool of yellow butter sauce sprinkled with black pepper and green herbs, with a wedge of lemon placed behind the fish. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I cook frozen tuna steaks without thawing?

It’s best to thaw tuna steaks first to ensure even cooking. Cooking directly from frozen may result in uneven texture.

How do I know when tuna steaks are done?

Tuna steaks are often best served medium-rare, with a pink center. Cook about 2-3 minutes per side over medium-high heat, depending on thickness, or until the outside is seared while the inside remains tender.

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Lemon Herb Tuna Steaks Skillet Recipe


  • Author: anna
  • Total Time: 16 minutes
  • Yield: 2 servings 1x

Description

This Tuna Steaks recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy a delicious seafood meal using fresh tuna steaks, infused with lemon, parsley, and optional dill. The steaks are pan-seared in olive oil and butter to create a perfectly cooked exterior while preserving the tender texture inside, making it an ideal quick and healthy dinner option.


Ingredients

Scale

Seafood

  • 2 tuna steaks

Oils & Fats

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 tbsp butter

Herbs & Seasonings

  • 1 cup chopped fresh parsley or 1/2 cup dried parsley flakes
  • 1/2 tbsp dried dill weed (optional)

Others

  • 1 fresh lemon (juice for marinating and serving)

Instructions

  1. Thaw the Tuna Steaks: If your tuna steaks are frozen and wrapped in plastic, place them in a bowl of water for 5-8 minutes to thaw gently, ensuring even thawing without cooking the edges.
  2. Prepare the Skillet: Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil and 2 tablespoons of butter in a skillet over medium-high heat until the butter is melted and the oil is shimmering, creating a rich and flavorful cooking base.
  3. Season the Tuna: Unwrap the thawed tuna steaks and marinate them in the fresh lemon juice combined with chopped parsley. Optionally, add dried dill weed or substitute lime and cilantro for a different flavor profile. Allow the steaks to sit in the marinade for a few minutes to absorb the flavors.
  4. Cook the Tuna: Place the marinated tuna steaks carefully into the hot skillet. Pour in the remaining marinade to enhance the flavor as they cook. Sear the steaks for approximately 2-3 minutes per side for medium-rare, or cook longer to your preferred level of doneness, making sure to avoid overcooking to keep the tuna tender and moist.
  5. Serve: Remove the cooked tuna steaks from the skillet and plate them. Finish with an extra squeeze of fresh lemon juice on top for brightness and serve immediately while hot alongside your favorite side dishes.

Notes

  • Use fresh tuna steaks for best flavor and texture. Sushi-grade tuna is preferred if you like your steaks rare.
  • Adjust cooking time depending on steak thickness and desired doneness.
  • Marinating for 10-15 minutes enhances flavor but avoid marinating too long as acid from lemon juice can start cooking the fish.
  • You can substitute butter with ghee or a mild oil to alter flavor or accommodate dietary restrictions.
  • If you prefer a smokier flavor, you can add a dash of smoked paprika or grill the tuna steaks instead of pan-searing.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 6 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Frying
  • Cuisine: American

Keywords: tuna steaks, pan-seared tuna, lemon marinade, quick seafood recipe, healthy dinner

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