Grilled tuna steak (fillet) is a true Mediterranean specialty that delights fish lovers with its juiciness and rich flavor. Tuna is a prized fish because of its firm flesh, reminiscent of a beef steak, which is why it is often prepared in a similar way to beef. The best result is achieved when the fillet is seared quickly—forming a nice crust on the outside while remaining tender and juicy on the inside.
Preparing grilled tuna steak is simple, but requires a few tricks: the right marinade, a well-heated grill, and a short cooking time. Below you’ll find the exact procedure for preparing the perfect grilled tuna steak, along with tips and frequently asked questions.
Ingredients for grilled tuna steak
- 4 tuna filets (steaks, about 2.5 cm thick)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- juice of 1 lemon
- 2 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Method
1Rinse the tuna filets under cold water and pat them dry with a paper towel.
2In a small bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper to make a marinade.
3Place the tuna steaks in a shallow dish, pour the marinade over them, and let them rest for about 15–20 minutes at room temperature.
4Preheat the grill to high heat (it should be very hot before placing the steaks on it).
5Place the tuna steaks on the hot grill and cook for about 2 minutes per side for medium-rare (the inside should remain pink and juicy). If you prefer more doneness, grill for an additional 1–2 minutes per side.
6Remove the tuna steaks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips
For the best flavor, choose fresh tuna fillets. Don’t cook them too long to prevent the meat from becoming dry. They pair excellently with grilled vegetables, potatoes, or fresh salad. If you want a more Mediterranean flavor, add some rosemary or thyme to the marinade.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How Long Do We Grill a Tuna Steak?
Tuna steak is typically grilled for 2-3 minutes on each side. If you cook it longer, it will become dry and lose its juiciness.
How Do We Know when a Tuna Steak is Done?
When it has a nice brown crust on the outside, while the inside remains slightly pink. If you prefer it more well-done, cook it for an additional minute on each side.
Is it Better to Use Fresh or Frozen Tuna?
Fresh tuna is best, but you can also use quality frozen versions. Before grilling, thaw it completely and pat it dry.
What Can We Serve with Tuna Steak?
It pairs excellently with grilled vegetables, potatoes, rice, or fresh salad. Add lemon juice or yogurt dressing for freshness.
Can We also Cook Tuna Steak in a Pan?
Yes. If you don’t have a grill, you can cook it in a well-heated pan with a little olive oil. The cooking process is the same as on the grill.
