Seared Encrusted Tuna Steak Salad 🥗
Description: Elevate your salad game with this exquisite Seared Encrusted Tuna Steak Salad recipe. Bursting with flavors, it’s a delightful fusion of fresh ingredients and succulent tuna steaks, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Total Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
Ingredients:
- 1 clove garlic
- 1 tablespoon basil
- 1/2 tablespoon cilantro
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 4 tuna steaks
- Sun-dried tomatoes (optional)
- Basil leaves (for garnish)
Instructions:
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Prepare the Herb Mixture: Begin by smashing up the chili and coriander in a mortar and pestle until finely crushed. Then, add the minced garlic, basil, cilantro, and a splash of lemon juice to taste. Mix everything together thoroughly, ensuring the flavors are well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste, and set aside.
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Season the Tuna Steaks: Lay out the tuna steaks on a clean tray or plate. Season both sides of the tuna generously with salt and black pepper. Next, take the herb mixture prepared in step 1 and rub it onto each side of the tuna steaks, ensuring they are evenly coated with the flavorful herb blend.
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Heat the Pan: Heat a skillet or frying pan over medium-high heat. Once the pan is hot, add a drizzle of olive oil and swirl to coat the bottom of the pan evenly. Allow the oil to heat up for a minute or two until it shimmers slightly.
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Sear the Tuna: Carefully place the seasoned tuna steaks into the hot pan. Sear the tuna for approximately 45-60 seconds on each side, or until it develops a beautifully toasted, golden-brown crust. The high heat will help lock in the flavors and create a delicious caramelized exterior while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
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Assemble the Salad: Once the tuna steaks are seared to perfection, remove them from the pan and allow them to rest for a minute or two. Then, slice the tuna steaks in half to reveal the succulent pink center. Arrange the sliced tuna on a bed of fresh salad greens, such as arugula or mixed baby greens.
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Add Garnishes: To elevate the flavors even further, scatter sun-dried tomatoes, olives, and fresh basil leaves over the salad. These colorful garnishes not only add visual appeal but also contribute their unique taste profiles, enhancing the overall dining experience.
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Serve and Enjoy: Your Seared Encrusted Tuna Steak Salad is now ready to be enjoyed! Serve it immediately as a light and refreshing meal, perfect for lunch or dinner. Each bite is a symphony of flavors, from the aromatic herbs to the succulent tuna, making it a truly memorable dish for any occasion.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 12.2
- Fat: 0.4g
- Saturated Fat: 0g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
- Sodium: 3.7mg
- Carbohydrates: 2.3g
- Fiber: 1.2g
- Sugar: 0.6g
- Protein: 0.7g
Tips and Variations:
- For added crunch and texture, consider tossing some toasted nuts or seeds into the salad mix.
- Experiment with different salad dressings to complement the flavors of the tuna, such as a citrus vinaigrette or a tangy balsamic glaze.
- If you prefer your tuna cooked to a specific doneness, adjust the searing time accordingly. Keep in mind that tuna is best enjoyed medium-rare to medium for optimal tenderness and flavor.
- To make this recipe even more convenient, you can prepare the herb mixture in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Simply rub it onto the tuna steaks when ready to cook.
With its vibrant colors, bold flavors, and nutritious ingredients, this Seared Encrusted Tuna Steak Salad is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a healthy yet satisfying meal, this recipe ticks all the boxes for taste, convenience, and nutrition. Enjoy every forkful of this delightful dish! 🍽️
