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- 2 ahi tuna steaks (about 6 oz each) - 1/4 cup black sesame seeds - 1/4 cup white sesame seeds - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 1 tablespoon soy sauce - 1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger - 1 teaspoon wasabi paste (optional) For this dish, ahi tuna steaks are key. They bring a rich flavor and nice texture. The sesame seeds give a crunchy crust that pairs perfectly with the fish. Olive oil, soy sauce, ginger, and wasabi add depth to the dish. - 1 avocado, sliced - 1 small cucumber, thinly sliced - 2 green onions, chopped - Lemon wedges for serving Adding avocado and cucumber brings freshness and creaminess. Green onions add a mild bite, while lemon wedges brighten the flavors. These accompaniments make your dish look good and taste even better. - Salt and pepper to taste - Flavor variations for marinades Simple seasoning with salt and pepper is all you need. However, you can experiment with different marinades. Try adding citrus juice, herbs, or even spicy sauces for a twist. This way, you can make each meal unique and exciting. For the full recipe, check out the complete details. First, you need to dry the ahi tuna steaks. Use paper towels to pat them dry. This step helps the sesame seeds stick better. Then, season both sides with salt and pepper. Next, make the sesame seed coating. In a shallow dish, mix the black and white sesame seeds together. This blend adds great flavor and a nice look. Now, brush the tuna with a mix of olive oil, soy sauce, and grated ginger. If you like spice, add a bit of wasabi paste. Now, dredge each tuna steak in the sesame seeds. Press gently to make sure they stick well. Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat. Add a little olive oil to the pan. Once the oil is hot, carefully place the sesame-crusted tuna steaks in the skillet. Sear them for 1-2 minutes on each side for medium-rare. If you want it cooked more, leave them a bit longer. After cooking, remove the tuna from the skillet. Let it rest for a minute. This helps keep it juicy. Then, slice it into thin strips. Now it’s time to serve! Arrange the sliced tuna on a plate. Add slices of avocado and thin cucumber pieces around it. Sprinkle chopped green onions on top for extra flavor. Finally, drizzle any leftover soy-ginger mixture over the tuna. This adds a tasty finish. For a bright touch, serve with lemon wedges on the side. Enjoy your meal with this flavorful dish! For the full recipe, check out the details above. To get a great crust on your sesame crusted ahi tuna, start with dry fish. Pat the tuna steaks with paper towels. This helps the sesame seeds stick better. Then, season both sides with a little salt and pepper. Next, heat your skillet to medium-high. Use enough olive oil to coat the bottom. When the oil shimmers, it’s time to add the tuna. Sear the tuna for 1-2 minutes on each side. If you want it more cooked, leave it on a bit longer. A good sear gives that lovely crunch and keeps the fish juicy. Boosting the flavor is easy! You can add extra spices or herbs to the sesame mixture. Try some garlic powder or fresh herbs like cilantro or basil. These can make the dish pop. Also, adjust the soy sauce and wasabi to fit your taste. If you like it spicy, add more wasabi. For a sweeter touch, add a bit of honey to the soy mixture. This balance enhances the dish and makes each bite exciting. Plating your dish well makes it look appealing. Start by arranging the sliced tuna on one side of the plate. Then, add avocado and cucumber slices next to the tuna. This adds color and freshness. Finish with a sprinkle of chopped green onions over the top. A drizzle of the soy-ginger mixture can give an extra shine. Lemon wedges on the side add a pop of color and a burst of flavor when squeezed over the fish. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide to making sesame crusted ahi tuna. {{image_2}} You can swap ahi tuna for other fish. Great substitutes include salmon, swordfish, or halibut. Each fish has its own flavor. You can sear them just like tuna, too. For salmon, adjust cooking time to avoid dryness. Swordfish is firmer and holds up well on the grill. Halibut cooks quickly and has a mild taste. If you want a plant-based option, try using tofu or tempeh. Firm tofu works best. Press it to remove extra water first. Then, slice it like the tuna. Tempeh has a nutty flavor and adds protein. Coat it with sesame seeds just like the tuna. You can then sear it in the pan. Both options make a tasty meal. The sauce can add fun flavors. You might try a spicy mayo or a mango salsa. A simple soy sauce mix with lime juice also works well. For a homemade marinade, mix soy sauce, honey, and garlic. Let your fish soak in it for extra flavor. It’s easy to switch things up and find your favorite. For the full recipe, check the earlier section. To keep leftover tuna fresh, wrap it well. Use plastic wrap or foil to cover it tightly. Place the wrapped tuna in an airtight container. This helps to keep air out and moisture in. Store it in the fridge. Leftover sesame crusted tuna stays good for up to two days. When you reheat tuna, do it gently. Use a skillet over low heat. This way, the fish warms up without drying out. Avoid using a microwave, as it can overcook the tuna. Just heat it until warm, about one to two minutes per side, and enjoy! Yes, you can freeze sesame crusted tuna. Wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and then place it in a freezer bag. This prevents freezer burn. For best taste, use it within three months. When ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Avoid quick thawing methods like hot water. This keeps the texture nice and firm. To check if ahi tuna is cooked just right, look for a few signs. The outside should be golden brown and crispy, while the inside should be bright pink. You want it to be warm but not fully cooked through. For the best taste, aim for a cooking temperature of about 125°F for medium-rare. If you prefer it more cooked, go for 130°F to 140°F. Keep in mind that the fish will continue to cook a bit after you take it off the heat. Yes, you can use frozen ahi tuna steaks. When choosing frozen fish, look for steaks that are firm and free of ice crystals. This shows they are fresh and handled well. To thaw, place the steaks in the fridge overnight. If you're short on time, you can also run cold water over the sealed package for about an hour. Remember, frozen tuna may have a different texture than fresh. It’s best for recipes like sesame crusted tuna. Pair your sesame crusted ahi tuna with light sides for a balanced meal. Here are some great options: - Salads: A crisp cucumber salad or a simple mixed green salad works well. - Vegetables: Steamed asparagus or sautéed bok choy adds color and nutrition. - Rice or grains: A side of jasmine rice or quinoa complements the flavors nicely. These sides bring out the taste of the tuna and keep your meal light and fresh. For the full recipe, check out the complete guide to making sesame crusted ahi tuna. This blog post covered how to make sesame crusted Ahi tuna. We discussed essential ingredients, preparation steps, and cooking tips. You learned how to plate and add garnishes to impress guests. Remember, achieving the perfect sear makes all the difference. Experiment with flavors and accompaniments to find your favorite. Store any leftovers carefully, and don’t forget about alternative options for fish and plant-based dishes. Now, go create this delicious meal and enjoy every bite!

Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna

Discover the delight of Sesame Crusted Ahi Tuna, a delicious and healthy dish that's quick to make! With a crispy sesame coating and fresh flavors from avocado and cucumber, this recipe is perfect for a special dinner or a tasty weeknight meal. In just 20 minutes, you can impress your family or guests with this vibrant seafood dish.
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Ingredients
  

2 ahi tuna steaks (about 6 oz each)

1/4 cup black sesame seeds

1/4 cup white sesame seeds

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 tablespoon soy sauce

1 teaspoon freshly grated ginger

1 teaspoon wasabi paste (optional)

1 avocado, sliced

1 small cucumber, thinly sliced

2 green onions, chopped

Salt and pepper to taste

Lemon wedges for serving

Instructions
 

In a shallow dish, mix the black and white sesame seeds together. Pat the ahi tuna steaks dry with paper towels and season both sides with salt and pepper.

    In a separate bowl, combine the olive oil, soy sauce, grated ginger, and wasabi paste (if using). Brush this mixture over each tuna steak, making sure to coat them evenly.

      Dredge each tuna steak in the mixed sesame seeds, pressing gently to ensure they stick well.

        Heat a non-stick skillet over medium-high heat and add a bit more olive oil. Once hot, carefully place the sesame-crusted tuna steaks in the skillet. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer it more cooked.

          Remove the tuna from the skillet and let it rest for a minute before slicing it into thin strips.

            To serve, arrange the sliced tuna on a plate with avocado, cucumber slices, and a sprinkle of chopped green onions. Drizzle any remaining soy-ginger mixture over the top.

              Prep Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 20 minutes | Servings: 2