The Asian Tuna Steak is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of tuna with a homemade sesame ginger marinade. Perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this recipe shines with its quick preparation and healthy, protein-packed profile. The grilled tuna steaks boast a savory crust and tender inside, making it a standout choice for seafood lovers.

Jump to:
- Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Tools and Preparation
- Essential Tools and Equipment
- Importance of Each Tool
- Ingredients
- For the Tuna Steak
- For Garnish
- How to Make Asian Tuna Steak
- Step 1: Preheat the Grill
- Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
- Step 3: Marinate the Tuna Steaks
- Step 4: Coat the Tuna Steaks
- Step 5: Grill the Tuna Steaks
- Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
- How to Serve Asian Tuna Steak
- With Steamed Rice
- Accompanied by Stir-Fried Vegetables
- On a Fresh Salad
- With Sliced Avocado
- How to Perfect Asian Tuna Steak
- Best Side Dishes for Asian Tuna Steak
- Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage
- Freezing Asian Tuna Steak
- Reheating Asian Tuna Steak
- Frequently Asked Questions
- How long should I marinate my Asian Tuna Steak?
- What is the best cooking temperature for Asian Tuna Steak?
- Can I use frozen tuna steaks for this recipe?
- What to serve with Asian Tuna Steak?
- Final Thoughts
- 📖 Recipe Card
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This dish can be ready in just over half an hour, making it ideal for busy nights.
- Flavorful Marinade: The sesame ginger marinade infuses the tuna with rich flavors that are both delicious and aromatic.
- Healthy Meal Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this dish is perfect for those looking to enjoy a nutritious meal without sacrificing taste.
- Versatile Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad to create a complete meal.
- Perfect for Grilling: The grilling technique enhances the flavor and gives the tuna a satisfying texture.
Tools and Preparation
Before you start cooking, gather your essential tools to ensure smooth preparation.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk
- Measuring spoons
- Tongs
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides high heat needed for quick cooking while adding smoky flavors to your tuna steak.
- Mixing Bowl: Essential for combining ingredients into the marinade efficiently.
- Whisk: Helps blend the marinade ingredients thoroughly for even flavor distribution.
Ingredients
For the Tuna Steak
- 2 tuna steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, divided
For Garnish
- Green onion, sliced (for garnish)

How to Make Asian Tuna Steak
Step 1: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (350°F) to ensure that it’s hot enough to sear the tuna steaks properly.
Step 2: Prepare the Marinade
In a small bowl, whisk together:
1. Olive oil
2. Sesame oil
3. Ground ginger
4. Soy sauce
5. Garlic powder
6. Rice vinegar
7. Half of the sesame seeds
This mixture serves as a flavorful marinade for your tuna.
Step 3: Marinate the Tuna Steaks
Pour half of the marinade over the tuna steaks. Reserve the other half for later use. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes while the grill heats up.
Step 4: Coat the Tuna Steaks
When ready to grill, remove the tuna steaks from the marinade and discard any excess marinade. Coat each steak with 1 tablespoon of sesame seeds (or more if desired) to form a tasty crust.
Step 5: Grill the Tuna Steaks
Place the coated tuna steaks on the grill:
– Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side.
– Drizzle some reserved marinade on top while grilling.
Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare or cook until it reaches 145°F if you prefer well-done fish.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Remove from the grill and top with remaining sauce, green onions, and additional sesame seeds. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious Asian Tuna Steak!
How to Serve Asian Tuna Steak
Serving Asian Tuna Steak can elevate your meal experience by incorporating various complementary flavors and textures. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to enhance your dish.
With Steamed Rice
- Plain Jasmine Rice: A simple base that absorbs the rich flavors of the tuna and marinade.
- Coconut Rice: Infuse your rice with coconut milk for a tropical twist that pairs beautifully with the dish.
Accompanied by Stir-Fried Vegetables
- Broccoli and Bell Peppers: Quick stir-fry with garlic and soy sauce adds crunch and color.
- Snow Peas and Carrots: Lightly sauté these for a fresh, crisp side that balances the tuna’s richness.
On a Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
- Asian Slaw: Shredded cabbage, carrots, and peanuts dressed in sesame dressing enhance the Asian flavors.
With Sliced Avocado
- Chilled Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the grilled tuna’s texture and adds healthy fats.
How to Perfect Asian Tuna Steak
Achieving the perfect Asian Tuna Steak requires attention to detail in marinating and cooking. Here are key tips to ensure your dish turns out wonderfully.
- Bold Marinade: Ensure you allow enough marination time—20 minutes is great, but longer will deepen the flavor.
- Preheated Grill: Always grill on medium-high heat to achieve a perfect sear while keeping the inside tender.
- Use Quality Tuna: Opt for sushi-grade tuna steaks for the best taste and texture; freshness is key.
- Monitor Cooking Time: Avoid overcooking; aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare.
- Crust with Sesame Seeds: Press sesame seeds onto the steaks before grilling for added flavor and crunch.
- Rest Before Serving: Let your tuna rest briefly after grilling to retain its juices and enhance tenderness.

Best Side Dishes for Asian Tuna Steak
Pairing side dishes with your Asian Tuna Steak can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some excellent options to consider.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Stir-fried rice with garlic offers savory flavor that complements the tuna nicely.
- Cucumber Salad: A refreshing salad with vinegar dressing cleanses your palate between bites.
- Miso Soup: Light miso soup adds warmth and balances the savory notes of the tuna steak.
- Quinoa Pilaf: Nutty quinoa mixed with herbs provides a hearty yet healthy option alongside the dish.
- Sautéed Bok Choy: Quickly sautéed bok choy retains its crunch while adding nutritional value.
- Pickled Ginger: Served on the side, pickled ginger enhances flavor while aiding digestion after rich meals.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing your Asian Tuna Steak, avoiding common pitfalls can elevate your dish. Here are some mistakes to watch for:
- Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the tuna can lead to bland flavors. Make sure to let it sit for at least 20 minutes for maximum taste.
- Overcooking the tuna: Cooking tuna beyond medium-rare results in a dry texture. Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for the best outcome.
- Neglecting the grill temperature: Failing to preheat the grill can prevent a good sear. Ensure your grill is hot enough before adding the tuna steaks.
- Using low-quality tuna: Poor-quality tuna will impact flavor and texture. Select fresh, high-quality tuna steaks for the best results.
- Forgetting garnishes: Skipping green onions or sesame seeds diminishes presentation and taste. Always add these finishing touches for a vibrant finish.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- item Store cooked Asian Tuna Steak in an airtight container.
- item It will last up to 2 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Asian Tuna Steak
- item Wrap the tuna steaks tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
- item They can be frozen for up to 3 months; label them with dates.
Reheating Asian Tuna Steak
- item Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F and bake the tuna for about 10 minutes until warmed through.
- item Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until warmed, about 1-2 minutes total.
- item Stovetop: Heat a non-stick skillet over low heat and warm the tuna steaks gently for about 3-4 minutes per side.

Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I marinate my Asian Tuna Steak?
Marinating for at least 20 minutes enhances flavor, but you can marinate overnight for deeper taste.
What is the best cooking temperature for Asian Tuna Steak?
Aim for an internal temperature of 135°F for medium-rare. If you prefer well-done, cook until it reaches 145°F.
Can I use frozen tuna steaks for this recipe?
Yes, frozen tuna can be used. Just ensure they are fully thawed before marinating and cooking.
What to serve with Asian Tuna Steak?
Pair it with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.
Final Thoughts
Asian Tuna Steak is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it with different marinades or sides based on your preference. Try this recipe today and enjoy a healthy, protein-packed meal that everyone will love!
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Asian Tuna Steak
- Total Time: 26 minutes
- Yield: Serves 2
Description
Savor the flavors of our Asian Tuna Steak, a delightful dish featuring perfectly grilled tuna marinated in a homemade sesame ginger blend. This recipe is not only quick to prepare—ideal for busy weeknights—but also a healthy choice packed with protein. The marinated tuna steaks develop a savory crust and tender interior when grilled, making them a perfect centerpiece for any meal. Serve with steamed rice, stir-fried vegetables, or a fresh salad to create an elegant dining experience that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 2 tuna steaks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon ground ginger
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds, divided
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (350°F).
- In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, sesame oil, ground ginger, soy sauce, garlic powder, rice vinegar, and half of the sesame seeds to create the marinade.
- Pour half of the marinade over the tuna steaks and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes.
- Remove the tuna from the marinade and discard excess; coat each steak with remaining sesame seeds.
- Grill the tuna for 2-3 minutes on each side or until desired doneness (135°F for medium-rare).
- Serve topped with remaining marinade, green onions, and additional sesame seeds.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Asian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tuna steak (150g)
- Calories: 250
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 26g
- Cholesterol: 80mg