Perfect Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks
Lakshman Rao Sarnala
Tender Ahi Tuna Steaks, seared to perfection—crispy outside, rare inside.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 5 minutes mins
5 minutes mins
Total Time 20 minutes mins
Course Appetizer, Main Course
Cuisine Japanese
- 2 Ahi tuna steaks (6-8 oz each, about 1 inch thick)
- 2 tbsp olive oil or sesame oil
- 1 tsp sea salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (optional)
- 1 tsp sesame seeds (optional, for garnish)
- Lemon wedges (for serving)
Prepare the tuna: Pat the Ahi tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Brush with olive oil on all sides and season with sea salt and black pepper.
Heat the pan: Preheat a cast-iron skillet or heavy-bottomed pan over high heat until it’s smoking hot.
Sear the tuna: Carefully place the tuna steaks in the pan. Sear for 1-2 minutes on each side for a rare center. For medium-rare, cook for 3 minutes on each side.
Rest and slice: Remove the tuna from the pan and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain.
Serve: Drizzle with soy sauce if desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds, and serve with lemon wedges.
- Use sushi-grade Ahi tuna for safety and the best quality.
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Avoid overcooking—Ahi tuna is best enjoyed rare or medium-rare.
Keyword Ahi Tuna Recipe, Seared Ahi Tuna Steaks