When summer rolls around, I start dreaming about backyard barbecues, outdoor picnics, and laid-back evenings on the patio. What really gets my mouth watering? Ahi tuna steaks sizzling on the grill with smoky char marks that complement their fresh flavor. And of course, a refreshing side like a crisp summer salad or some grilled veggies wouldn’t hurt either. If you're like me and looking for something delicious to impress your guests, this Ahi Tuna BBQ recipe fits the bill perfectly.
Ahi tuna is not your everyday fish. The rich, steak-like quality and its ability to take on various flavors make it a fantastic choice for grilling. With a slightly sweet and spicy marinade, this dish transforms simple ahi tuna steaks into a flavorful culinary experience that can easily become the highlight of any summer gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just cooking for fun, this quick and easy recipe will have your friends asking for seconds.
The magic of this Ahi Tuna BBQ recipe lies in its stellar ingredient lineup. Ahi tuna steaks, at their best when fresh, form the core of the dish. For the marinade, I lean on a mix of low sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, and honey for that sweet kick. A hint of cayenne adds a touch of heat, while a sprinkle of black pepper gives it depth. To amps up the savory notes, I also sneak in minced garlic, as it complements tuna beautifully.
- 2 ahi tuna (yellowfin tuna) steaks (about 4 oz. each, 1" thick)
- 1 tablespoon low sodium soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon toasted sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon honey
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt (optional)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
- 1 tablespoon canola oil, or other high-heat oil
- Green onions, toasted sesame seeds, and lime wedges for garnish
Getting started with this Ahi Tuna BBQ recipe is a breeze. You’ll be in and out of the kitchen in no time, and you'll end up with a dish that feels fancy without all the fuss. Let’s walk through the steps together.
Begin by patting the ahi tuna steaks dry with a paper towel. This step is crucial; it ensures a good sear later. Once they’re dry, place them on a plate or inside a resealable plastic bag.
In a bowl, combine the low sodium soy sauce, toasted sesame oil, honey, minced garlic, kosher salt (if using), black pepper, and cayenne pepper. Whisk it together until the honey fully dissolves, and the mixture is well blended. When your marinade is ready, pour it over the tuna steaks, ensuring they are thoroughly coated. If you have a bit of time, let them marinate for at least 10 minutes; they can even hang out in the fridge overnight if you want to plan ahead!
Grab a medium skillet (I recommend using cast iron for that fantastic sear). Heat it on medium-high to high until it's smoking hot. If you’re using a nonstick pan, medium heat will suffice. Give your skillet about three to five minutes to reach the right temperature; not rushing this step will yield that irresistible crust!
Add the tablespoon of canola oil to the hot skillet. Carefully place the marinated tuna steaks in the skillet. Sear them for 1 to 1½ minutes on each side if you prefer that delightful medium-rare finish. For medium-well, aim for around 2 to 2½ minutes per side. Adjust your cooking times based on how thick the steak is and how hot your burner gets—every stove has its quirks!
Once cooked to your liking, transfer the tuna steaks to a cutting board. Let them rest for a minute and then slice them into half-inch strips. This is where it gets fun—garnish with green onions, sprinkle on some toasted sesame seeds, and serve with lime wedges for that zesty punch. If you saved a bit of marinade, feel free to drizzle it on top for additional flavor.
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest ahi tuna you can find. The quality really shines through.
- Marination Time: If you have a solid hour, marinate the tuna steaks longer for more intense flavor.
- Watch the Heat: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your steaks and how well-done you prefer them.
- Use Flaky Salt: If it needs more seasoning, sprinkle some flaky sea salt before serving for an added touch of flavor.
- Experiment: This recipe is versatile, so feel free to play with the marinade ingredients to fit your taste preferences!
If you have any leftovers (which I doubt, because it's that good!), store the cooked tuna in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat to avoid overcooking.
In each serving, you’ll find approximately 350 calories. This dish is relatively low in carbohydrates and high in protein, making it great for anyone looking for a healthy yet satisfying meal. Plus, it’s rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which are fantastic for heart health!
- With Grilled Veggies: Serve alongside grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus for a colorful summer platter.
- On a Salad: Toss your tuna slices over a bed of mixed greens with a citrus vinaigrette for a light lunch.
- Tacos: Slice the tuna and use it in soft tacos with crunchy slaw and a spicy aioli.
- With Rice: Pair it with jasmine or brown rice for a heartier meal—don’t forget to drizzle some marinade over the rice!
- On Garlic Bread: For a unique twist, serve on toasted garlic bread with a side of avocado.
- Salmon: If tuna isn’t available, salmon steaks make a hearty replacement and boast similar flavors.
- Chicken Breast: Use chicken breast instead for a poultry version. Adjust the cooking time accordingly!
- Swordfish: Swordfish steaks are a great alternative with a meaty texture.
- Tempeh: For a plant-based option, use marinated tempeh for an excellent texture and flavor.
- Shrimp: Cooked shrimp tossed in the same marinade can create a fantastic seafood dish!
Grilling Ahi Tuna is a fantastic way to elevate your summer dinners with its rich flavor and quick cooking time. Whether you serve it simply or dress it up with sides, friends and family will surely be impressed. This dish is all about bringing the tastes of summer to your table, with the added benefits of being healthy and easy to prepare. So, fire up that grill, grab your marinade, and get ready to impress everyone with your culinary skills. Happy grilling!
Ahi tuna is not your everyday fish. The rich, steak-like quality and its ability to take on various flavors make it a fantastic choice for grilling. With a slightly sweet and spicy marinade, this dish transforms simple ahi tuna steaks into a flavorful culinary experience that can easily become the highlight of any summer gathering. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just cooking for fun, this quick and easy recipe will have your friends asking for seconds.
- Freshness Matters: Use the freshest ahi tuna you can find. The quality really shines through.
- Marination Time: If you have a solid hour, marinate the tuna steaks longer for more intense flavor.
- Watch the Heat: Adjust the cooking time based on the thickness of your steaks and how well-done you prefer them.
- Use Flaky Salt: If it needs more seasoning, sprinkle some flaky sea salt before serving for an added touch of flavor.
- Experiment: This recipe is versatile, so feel free to play with the marinade ingredients to fit your taste preferences!
Lauren Miller is a Maryland-based registered dietitian and the creator of Comfort Food Meals, where she shares easy, nutritious, and heartwarming recipes inspired by her love for comforting, home-cooked meals. With a focus on using wholesome ingredients, Lauren aims to balance indulgence with nutrition in every dish. Her goal is to help others create meals that nourish both body and soul.