Grilled Tuna Steak with Scallion Sauce
Those who claim that good things take time have clearly never experienced grilling a tuna steak. Once the grill is properly preheated, it only takes about 5 minutes to grill a tuna steak to perfection. The key to achieving a beautifully rare interior is ensuring the grill reaches a scorching temperature, so it's essential to exercise patience as it heats up. This crucial step guarantees that when the fish makes contact with the hot grates, it sears instead of sticking. Grilled tuna steaks are best enjoyed with minimal seasoning, allowing you to fully relish the delightful texture and flavor. Serve the grilled tuna steak atop an arugula salad or use it as a delectable alternative to canned tuna in a Niçoise salad. Thanks to the flavorful grilled scallion sauce, the tuna is also a fantastic accompaniment when served sliced over warm white or brown rice.No matter how you choose to serve your tuna steak, this recipe calls for splurging on high-quality fish. Seek out a local fishmonger who prioritizes sustainable sourcing of tuna. While it's a good practice when it comes to fish in general, it is especially important for ahi tuna (which includes bigeye and yellowfin varieties), as many tuna stocks are currently overfished.When purchasing tuna steaks, opt for ones that are at least 1 1/2" to 2" thick to ensure they don't overcook while achieving those gorgeous grill marks.
Ingredients
- Vegetable oil, for grill
- 2 scallions
- 2 tbsp. toasted sesame oil
- 1 tbsp. soy sauce
- 1 tsp. finely grated lemon zest
- 1 tbsp. fresh lemon juice
- 1 tsp. finely grated lime zest
- 1 tbsp. fresh lime juice
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
FOR TUNA
- 2 (6- to 8-oz.) ahi tuna steaks, 1 1/2" to 2" thick
- 1 tbsp. vegetable oil
- 1 tsp. kosher salt
- Mixed greens and grilled lemon wedges, for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare a grill for high heat; clean and oil grates with vegetable oil. Arrange scallions in a single layer on grill and place a small baking sheet on top of them so whole scallion makes contact with grill. Grill until softened and charred, 2 to 3 minutes per side. Transfer to a cutting board and let cool.
- Once cool enough to handle, finely chop scallions and transfer to a small bowl. Whisk in sesame oil, soy sauce, lemon zest, lemon juice, lime zest, lime juice, and salt.
TUNA
- Season tuna steaks all over with vegetable oil and salt. Grill just until there are visible grill marks, about 2 minutes per side for rare and 3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Transfer tuna to a plate. Spoon scallion sauce over top. Serve with greens and lemon wedges alongside, if using.
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