Ahi Tuna Recipe Seared
This Ahi Tuna Recipe Seared delivers a perfect balance of flavors, with tender, fresh Ahi tuna seared to perfection on the outside while maintaining a delicate, rare center. Whether you’re enjoying it as a standalone dish or paired with your favorite sides, this dish is simple, quick, and packed with nutrients. A must-try for tuna lovers or anyone craving a healthy, gourmet meal at home!
Prep Time 15 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Seafood dish
Cuisine American
Servings 4
Calories 180 kcal
- 2 Ahi tuna steaks about 6 oz each
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil for searing
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce or tamari for gluten-free
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds optional
- 1 teaspoon fresh grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes optional, for extra heat
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil for marinating
- 1 tablespoon honey optional, for sweetness
Marinate the Tuna:
Whisk together the soy sauce, sesame oil, grated ginger, garlic powder, honey (if using), and chili flakes in a small bowl.
Put the Ahi tuna steaks into the marinade and ensure that they are thoroughly combined. Carve them to sit well, then float in 10-15 minutes of the flavors.
Prepare the Skillet:
And in a cast iron skillet or non-stick skillet, heat over medium-high. Add sesame oil, and let heat until shimmering.
Optional: Sprinkle sesame seeds on the tuna steaks for added texture and flavor.
Sear the Tuna:
Once the skillet is hot, add in the marinated tuna steaks. Cook for rare or well-done tuna for 1-2 minutes on each side. The outside should be golden brown and lightly crisp, while the interior is still pink and rare.
Rest and Slice:
Transfer the tuna to the skillet and allow to rest for 2-3 minutes. This achieves juiciness and texture, exactly how we like.
Slicing tuna against the grain into thin strips.
Make sure to use high-quality, sushi-grade Ahi tuna for the best flavor and safety.
You can adjust the searing time depending on how rare or well-done you like your tuna.

The optional honey in the marinade balances the saltiness of the soy sauce and sesame oil. Feel free to omit or adjust to taste.
For a more elevated dish, serve with a side of wasabi or a spicy dipping sauce.

Keyword Easy Seafood Recipe, Healthy Tuna Recipe, Quick Tuna Recipe, Searing Tuna, Sushi-grade Tuna