We make some form of tacos at least once a week, and these Ahi Tuna Tacos with crunchy Asian slaw are a favourite. They’re healthy, delicious, and quick to cook, making them perfect for busy weeknights or easy entertaining. If you’re looking for new taco night ideas, you have to try these!
The marinade for the tuna is simple but flavorful. I like to marinate the tuna steaks in a resealable plastic bag so the marinade can evenly coat the fish without handling it too much. Just 10-15 minutes on the counter is all it takes. This marinade works great for any type of fish or seafood.
After marinating, a quick sear is all these beautiful tuna steaks need. They cook up in just a few minutes, staying tender and flavorful. To complement the Asian flavors, I serve these tacos with a Red Cabbage Slaw that has a sesame-ginger dressing. A drizzle of Cilantro Lime Sauce and Yum Yum Sauce takes these tacos to the next level.
For sides, consider serving with guacamole, steamed rice, or a simple green salad. Cocktails that pair well include margaritas or a light beer. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and enjoy them within 2 days since the tuna is best when it’s fresh.
Ahi Tuna Tacos Recipe
Equipment
- 12-inch cast iron skillet
Ingredients
- 1 Orange zest and juice
- 1 Lemon zest and juice
- 1 Lime zest and juice
- ¼ cup Soy sauce
- 1 tbsp Olive oil
- 1 tbsp Sesame oil
- 1 Shallot diced
- 2 cloves Garlic minced
- 2 tbsp fresh Parsley chopped
- 2 tsp fresh Ginger grated
- ½ tsp Black pepper
- 2 pounds Wild ahi tuna steaks about 1 ½-inches thick
- 1 tbsp Vegetable or avocado oil for searing
- 12 Flour or corn tortillas warmed
- Guacamole sesame seeds, lime wedges, fresh cilantro, jalapeno slices for garnish
Instructions
- In a small bowl, whisk together the zest and juice from the orange, lemon, and lime. Mix in the soy sauce, olive oil, sesame oil, shallot, garlic, parsley, ginger, and black pepper.
- Place the tuna steaks in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and let it stand at room temperature for 10-15 minutes, up to 30 minutes.
- Heat the vegetable or avocado oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Pat excess moisture from the tuna steaks with paper towels. Place the tuna in the skillet and sear uncovered for 1 minute. Carefully flip the tuna steaks over and sear for another minute.
- Transfer the seared tuna to a cutting board and thinly slice it.
- Serve the sliced tuna with warm tortillas, Asian Red Cabbage Slaw, Cilantro Pistachio Pesto, Yum Yum Sauce, sesame seeds, sliced jalapeno, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime. Enjoy!
Nutrition Facts:
| Nutrition | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 315Â kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 20g |
| Protein | 37g |
| Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 55mg |
| Sodium | 76mg |
| Calcium | 58mg |
How Do I Cook the Ahi Tuna to Keep It Tender and Flavorful?
To keep ahi tuna tender and flavorful, marinate it for 10-30 minutes, then sear it quickly at high heat. Heat a skillet with oil over medium-high heat, pat the tuna dry, and sear each side for about 1 minute. This creates a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and slightly rare.
What Sides Go Well With Ahi Tuna Tacos?
Ahi Tuna Tacos pair well with warm tortillas, Asian Red Cabbage Slaw, and toppings like Cilantro Pistachio Pesto, Yum Yum Sauce, sesame seeds, sliced jalapeno, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges. For a complete meal, serve with guacamole, steamed rice, or a simple green salad.