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Blackened Tuna Steaks with Quick Sesame Ginger Slaw

Three thick slices of blackened tuna steak, perfectly seared with a pink center, served next to a colorful slaw.

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Make restaurant-quality blackened tuna steaks in 15 minutes. This recipe uses a simple pan-sear method for a healthy, flavorful dinner.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 (6 ounce) tuna steaks, about 1 inch thick
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • For the Slaw: 2 cups shredded cabbage mix
  • 2 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil
  • 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
  • 1 teaspoon honey or maple syrup

Instructions

  1. Combine the smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper (if using), salt, and pepper in a small bowl. This is your blackened seasoning.
  2. Pat the tuna steaks completely dry with paper towels. Rub the seasoning mix evenly over all sides of each tuna steak.
  3. Heat the olive oil in a heavy skillet (cast iron works well) over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
  4. Add the butter to the skillet. Once the butter melts and foams, carefully place the seasoned tuna steaks in the hot pan.
  5. Sear the tuna steaks for 2 to 3 minutes per side for rare to medium-rare. Adjust time based on your desired doneness. For medium, cook 3 to 4 minutes per side.
  6. Remove the tuna steaks from the skillet and let them rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes before slicing.
  7. While the tuna rests, prepare the slaw. In a medium bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, rice vinegar, sesame oil, grated ginger, and honey.
  8. Add the shredded cabbage mix to the dressing and toss until fully coated.
  9. Slice the rested tuna steaks against the grain. Serve immediately with the sesame ginger slaw on the side for a complete, healthy tuna meal.

Notes

  • For the best sear, make sure your pan is very hot before adding the fish.
  • If you prefer grilling tuna steaks, oil the grates well and cook over high heat for 2-3 minutes per side.
  • This blackened seasoning works well for other firm fish or chicken breasts too.

Nutrition