Description
Experience bold and juicy flavors with these Grilled Sesame-Ginger Tuna Steaks. Marinated in a savory blend of toasted sesame oil, soy sauce, and fresh ginger, these tuna steaks are grilled to perfection and sprinkled with crunchy sesame seeds for an umami-packed meal that’s quick to prepare and bursting with Asian-inspired tastes.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 4 tuna steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 4 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tsp toasted sesame oil
- 2 tsp ground ginger or 1 tbsp fresh grated ginger
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 2 tsp garlic powder
- 2 tbsp rice vinegar
- 4 tbsp sesame seeds (white or black), divided
- Sliced green onion, for garnish
Optional Ingredients
- 1 tbsp honey or maple syrup (for a sweet-savory balance)
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes or a drizzle of sriracha (for heat)
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, toasted sesame oil, ground or fresh grated ginger, soy sauce, garlic powder, and rice vinegar until well combined.
- Marinate the Tuna: Place the tuna steaks in a shallow dish or sealable zip-top bag. Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring each piece is fully coated. Refrigerate for 20 to 25 minutes, turning the tuna halfway through for even flavor absorption.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your outdoor grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot and ready to sear the tuna steaks.
- Grill the Tuna: Place the marinated tuna steaks on the grill. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, depending on thickness. For a rare center, grill 2 to 3 minutes per side.
- Toast Sesame Seeds: During the last minute of grilling, sprinkle the sesame seeds over the tuna steaks to add a toasty crunch and enhance the nutty flavor.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the tuna steaks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Top with sliced green onions and, if desired, add a drizzle of honey or maple syrup for sweetness or sprinkle red pepper flakes or sriracha for heat before serving.
Notes
- For best flavor, use fresh tuna steaks that are at least 1-inch thick.
- Adjust grilling time depending on your preferred doneness—less time for rare, more time for well done.
- The optional honey or maple syrup provides a nice sweet balance to the savory marinade.
- If you prefer a gluten-free soy sauce alternative, tamari works well.
- Serve with steamed rice, a fresh green salad, or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
