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Perfectly Seared Tuna Steaks with 5-Minute Soy-Ginger Marinade and Garlic Herb Butter

Four thick slices of perfectly seared tuna steak, crusted with seeds and herbs, resting in a light sauce.

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Make restaurant-worthy tuna steaks quickly. This recipe uses a fast soy-ginger marinade and finishes with a simple garlic herb butter for tender, flavorful results perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (6-ounce) tuna steaks, about 1 inch thick
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon honey or brown sugar
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil or avocado oil
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves
  • Salt and black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Combine soy sauce, grated ginger, sesame oil, honey, and garlic powder in a shallow dish. This is your quick tuna steak marinade.
  2. Place the tuna steaks in the marinade, turning to coat both sides. Let them marinate for 5 to 10 minutes. Do not marinate longer, as the soy sauce can begin to cure the fish.
  3. Remove the tuna from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Season both sides lightly with salt and pepper.
  4. Heat the olive oil in a heavy skillet, preferably cast iron, over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  5. Carefully place the tuna steaks in the hot skillet. Sear for 1.5 to 2 minutes per side for rare to medium-rare (the center should remain pink). Adjust time based on your preferred doneness.
  6. Remove the tuna from the skillet and set aside on a plate. Reduce the heat to low.
  7. Add the butter to the same skillet. Once melted, add the minced garlic, parsley, and thyme. Cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
  8. Spoon the garlic herb butter over the seared tuna steaks immediately before serving.

Notes

  • For a gourmet feel, aim for a deep brown crust while keeping the center cool and pink. This is the best tuna steak cooking method for ahi tuna.
  • If you prefer grilling tuna steaks, use the same marinade and cook over medium-high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
  • Serve this flavorful healthy fish with simple sides like steamed asparagus or a quick mixed greens salad.

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