Grilled Tuna with Sesame Seeds: A Nutty, Flavorful Delight

Grilled tuna is a healthy and delicious way to enjoy seafood, especially when paired with the nutty flavor and crisp texture of sesame seeds. This dish is quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for a light weeknight meal or a special dinner. Tuna, rich in omega-3 fatty acids and lean protein, takes well to a variety of marinades and cooking techniques. In this recipe, we’ll coat the tuna steaks with sesame seeds for a crunchy exterior and grill them just until they’re perfectly seared.

Why Grilled Tuna?

Tuna is a firm, meaty fish that holds up well on the grill. Its mild flavor makes it a great canvas for bold marinades or coatings, like the sesame seeds used in this recipe. Additionally, grilled tuna can be served rare or medium, depending on your preference, and it cooks in just minutes, making it a fantastic option for a quick and elegant meal.

Ingredients:

4 tuna steaks (about 6 ounces each, 1 inch thick)

1/4 cup soy sauce

2 tablespoons sesame oil

2 tablespoons rice vinegar

1 tablespoon honey

1 tablespoon fresh ginger, minced

2 cloves garlic, minced

Juice of 1 lime

1/2 cup white sesame seeds

1/4 cup black sesame seeds (optional, for contrast)

Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking spray or oil for the grill

For Serving:

Sliced green onions

Lemon or lime wedges

Soy sauce or a dipping sauce of your choice

Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, rice vinegar, honey, ginger, garlic, and lime juice. This marinade will add a delightful balance of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors to the tuna.

2. Marinate the Tuna:

Place the tuna steaks in a shallow dish or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the steaks, ensuring they’re evenly coated. Let the tuna marinate in the refrigerator for 15-30 minutes. Avoid marinating for too long, as the acidic ingredients can begin to "cook" the tuna, altering its texture.

3. Coat the Tuna with Sesame Seeds:

On a plate, mix the white and black sesame seeds together. Remove the tuna steaks from the marinade and shake off any excess liquid. Press each steak into the sesame seed mixture, ensuring all sides are evenly coated with sesame seeds. This will give the tuna a crispy, nutty crust when grilled.

4. Preheat the Grill:

Preheat your grill to high heat, around 500°F (260°C). Make sure the grates are clean, and lightly oil them to prevent sticking.

5. Grill the Tuna:

Place the sesame-coated tuna steaks on the grill. Sear the tuna for 1-2 minutes on each side for rare (pink in the center), or 3-4 minutes per side for medium. Tuna cooks very quickly, so be careful not to overcook it, as it can become dry.

6. Rest and Serve:

Once the tuna is grilled to your liking, remove it from the heat and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Serve the tuna steaks with sliced green onions, a sprinkle of sesame seeds, and a wedge of lemon or lime for added freshness.

Tips for Grilling Tuna:

Choose Fresh Tuna: Look for bright, firm tuna steaks. Fresh tuna should have a pleasant, clean smell.

Cooking Temperature: Tuna is best served rare to medium-rare to retain its moisture and flavor. Using a meat thermometer can help—aim for an internal temperature of 115°F to 125°F (46°C to 52°C) for rare to medium-rare.

Use a Grill Basket: If you're worried about the tuna sticking to the grill, you can use a fish grill basket to make flipping and handling easier.

Suggested Sides and Sauces:

Grilled tuna with sesame seeds pairs beautifully with light, Asian-inspired sides. 

Here are some suggestions to round out the meal:

Steamed Jasmine Rice: A simple, fragrant side to absorb the flavors of the marinade.

Grilled or Stir-Fried Vegetables: Try asparagus, bok choy, or bell peppers for a vibrant, healthy addition.

Soy or Ponzu Sauce: Serve with a drizzle of soy sauce or a citrusy ponzu sauce for added zest.

Health Benefits:

Tuna is an excellent source of lean protein and omega-3 fatty acids, which support heart health and brain function. Sesame seeds are rich in healthy fats, vitamins, and minerals, including calcium, magnesium, and zinc, making this dish both nutritious and satisfying.

Conclusion:

Grilled tuna with sesame seeds is a simple yet impressive dish that can be prepared in under 30 minutes. The combination of fresh tuna, a flavorful marinade, and a crispy sesame crust makes this a go-to recipe for seafood lovers. Whether you’re hosting a dinner or just enjoying a healthy meal at home, this recipe is sure to please. Happy grilling!