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

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.
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.
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.
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.
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