Grilled Tuna Steak with Mint Pesto
This delightful recipe for Grilled Tuna Steak with Mint Pesto combines the freshness of mint and zesty lemon with the rich flavor of tuna. Perfect for a light yet satisfying main course, this dish serves 4 people and is a showcase of Mediterranean-inspired simplicity and elegance.
Ingredients
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Fresh tuna steaks | 600 g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 10 g |
| Garlic | 1 clove |
| Chives | 1 tablespoon |
| Black pepper | To taste |
| Fine salt | To taste |
| Lemon juice | ½ lemon |
| Fresh mint leaves | 20 g |
| Extra virgin olive oil | 100 ml |
| Pine nuts | 20 g |
| Fine salt (for pesto) | To taste |
| Black pepper (for pesto) | To taste |
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 325 kcal |
| Protein | 35 g |
| Fats | 20 g |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Fiber | 0.5 g |
| Sodium | 200 mg |
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Mint Pesto
- Begin by preparing the mint pesto. Wash and thoroughly dry the mint leaves.
- Place the mint leaves in a food processor along with the pine nuts.
- Add a pinch of fine salt and a sprinkle of black pepper to taste.
- Drizzle in the 100 ml of extra virgin olive oil.
- Blend the ingredients until you achieve a smooth and fragrant pesto. Set aside.
Step 2: Marinate the Tuna
- In a mixing bowl, prepare the marinade by finely chopping the chives and garlic.
- Add the juice of half a lemon, 10 g of olive oil, and the minced garlic to the bowl.
- Stir the mixture well and season with black pepper to taste.
- Place the tuna steaks in the marinade, ensuring they are coated evenly on both sides.
- Gently massage the marinade into the tuna, then cover and let it rest for 30 minutes.
Step 3: Cook the Tuna
- Heat a non-stick skillet or grill pan over high heat until it is smoking hot.
- Place the marinated tuna steaks onto the hot surface. Sear each side for 2-3 minutes, depending on your desired level of doneness. For medium-rare, cook until the outside is lightly browned but the center remains pink.
- Remove the tuna from the pan and let it rest for a minute.
Step 4: Slice and Assemble
- Using a sharp knife, slice the tuna steaks into pieces approximately 2 cm thick.
- Arrange the tuna slices on a serving platter or individual plates.
- Drizzle the mint pesto generously over the tuna slices.
- Finish with a pinch of coarse salt to enhance the flavor.
Serving Suggestions
This dish pairs beautifully with a light salad of arugula and cherry tomatoes, or a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc, would make an excellent accompaniment to this fresh and vibrant dish.
Enjoy this elegant Grilled Tuna Steak with Mint Pesto as a celebration of simple ingredients prepared with care!
