Equipment
Ingredients
Tuna
- 340 g yellowfin or ahi tuna steaks, 2.5cm thick
- 15 ml olive oil
- 3 g kosher salt
- 1 g black pepper, freshly cracked
Tomato-Cilantro Vinaigrette
- 150 g cherry tomatoes, quartered
- 15 g fresh cilantro, finely chopped, stems included
- 30 g red onion, finely diced
- 10 g jalapeno pepper, minced, seeds and ribs removed
- 30 ml extra virgin olive oil
- 20 ml lime juice, freshly squeezed
- 2 g kosher salt
- 1 g black pepper, freshly cracked
Nutrition (per serving)
Method
In a mixing bowl, combine the quartered cherry tomatoes, chopped cilantro, diced red onion, minced jalapeno, extra virgin olive oil, lime juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss well to combine.
Allow the vinaigrette to rest at room temperature so the tomatoes release their juices and the flavors meld.
Preheat a grill or grill pan to high heat, reaching approximately 260C/500F.
Thoroughly pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Brush both sides lightly with olive oil and season evenly with kosher salt and black pepper.
Place the tuna on the hot grill. Sear for 1.5 to 2 minutes per side for medium-rare, aiming for an internal temperature of 46C/115F. For fully cooked fish, lower the heat slightly and cook until the internal temperature reaches 63C/145F. Note that consuming raw or undercooked seafood may increase your risk of foodborne illness.
Transfer the grilled tuna to plates and spoon the rested tomato-cilantro vinaigrette generously over the top. Serve immediately.
Chef's Notes
- When selecting tuna, look for steaks with a deep, even red color and no strong fishy odor. The flesh should spring back immediately when pressed.
- The cilantro stems pack an immense amount of flavor and crunch. Chop them finely and include them in the vinaigrette instead of discarding them.
- If you want to add an extra layer of complexity, a tiny splash of fish sauce in the vinaigrette will boost the umami profile without tasting fishy.
Storage
Refrigerator: 2 days — Store the vinaigrette and cooked tuna in separate airtight containers. Tuna is best consumed fresh.
Reheating: Tuna is best enjoyed cold or gently brought to room temperature to prevent overcooking.










