Seared Ahi Tuna Salad is a quick, protein-forward, restaurant-style salad made with sesame-crusted ahi tuna, fresh greens, and a light ginger sesame dressing. This seared tuna salad recipe relies on high heat and a short stovetop sear to create a crisp exterior while keeping the tuna rare in the center, making it an easy option for a fast weekday meal at home.
Ahi tuna, also known as yellowfin tuna, is a popular choice in both raw and cooked forms due to its mild flavor and firm texture. Originating from Hawaiian cuisine, this salad combines ocean freshness with crisp vegetables and a delicious dressing.
If you like this seafood recipe, you may also love our Poke Bowl with Seared Ahi Tuna or our Salmon and Mango Salad Recipe.
Why We Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare: Ready in just 25 minutes.
- Versatile: Perfect for a quick lunch or a special occasion.
- Flavorful: A delicious combination of flavors.
Key Ingredients
- Sushi-grade Ahi Tuna: The centerpiece of this salad, sushi-grade tuna is lean and packed with flavor.
- Sesame Seeds: These tiny seeds add a flavorful crunch and a hint of nuttiness. Toast them lightly in a dry pan for extra flavor.
- Avocado Oil: This oil is key for searing the tuna.
- Lettuce: We prefer a spring mix for this salad.
- Cucumber: Fresh and crisp, cucumbers add the perfect crunch.
- Radishes: Their peppery sharpness is a great contrast to the tuna's mild flavor.
- Avocado: Adds creamy texture, making the salad more filling and satisfying.
- Ginger Sesame Dressing: This dressing ties everything together with its tangy profile.
A full ingredient list with exact measurements can be found in the recipe card below.
Substitutions & Variations
- Tuna: Try substituting with salmon for a different flavor.
- Avocado Oil: Use light vegetable or canola oil.
- Ginger Sesame Dressing: Try soy sauce mixed with a bit of honey if unavailable.
- Flavor: Add a squeeze of lime juice for extra zest.
- Add-ins: Toss in edamame beans for added protein.
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How to Make a Seared Ahi Tuna Salad
STEP 1: Prepare the Tuna
Select a fresh, sushi-grade ahi tuna.
STEP 2: Prepare the Tuna
Coat the tuna with sesame seeds on all sides.
Heat avocado oil in a skillet and sear each side on medium heat. Let it rest before slicing.
STEP3: Prepare the Salad Base
To prepare the base, add spring mix to a large bowl.
Step 4: Dress and Serve
Next, add sliced cucumber, radish, avocado, seared tuna, and green onions. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Drizzle with ginger sesame dressing and toss gently.
Expert Tips for Success
👩🍳Jami's Pro Tips: Want to take this recipe to the next level? Check out my expert tips below for the best flavor, texture, and meal prep hacks!
✔️ DO Use fresh, sushi-grade ahi tuna.
✔️ DO Add the dressing just before serving to keep the salad crisp.
Storage
Store your Ahi Tuna Salad in airtight containers to maintain freshness. Keep the dressing separate and refrigerate any leftovers promptly; consume within one to two days for the best quality.
Recipe FAQs
Yes, you can prepare the components of Ahi Tuna Salad ahead of time, but for the best texture and flavor, assemble the salad close to serving time. Store the dressing and prepped ingredients separately in the refrigerator.
A quick alternative to ginger sesame dressing is to whisk together olive oil, soy sauce, a little honey, and fresh lime juice.
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📖 Recipe
Seared Ahi Tuna Salad
Equipment
- Cast iron skillet
- Meat thermometer
Ingredients
Salad
- 14 ounces sushi-grade ahi tuna
- 2 tablespoons sesame seeds
- 1 tablespoon avocado oil
- 5 to 6 ounces spring mix lettuce
- 1 small Persian cucumber sliced
- 1 to 2 small radish thinly sliced
- 1 small avocado diced
- 1 green onion chopped
- salt and pepper to taste
Dressing
- ¼ cup Ginger Sesame dressing
Instructions
- Coat the ahi tuna evenly with sesame seeds, pressing gently to adhere.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add the avocado oil.
- Sear the tuna for about 2 minutes on each side or until the desired doneness is reached. Remove from heat and slice thinly.
- In a large bowl, combine spring mix, sliced cucumber, radishes, diced avocado, and chopped green onions. Add the sliced tuna to the salad.
- Drizzle with ginger sesame dressing. Season with salt and pepper and toss gently to combine.
Save This Recipe 💌
Enter your email below and we'll send it to your inbox. Plus, you'll get new recipes from us each week!
Notes
- Tuna: Try substituting with salmon for a different flavor.
- Avocado Oil: Use light vegetable or canola oil.
- Ginger Sesame Dressing: Try soy sauce mixed with a bit of honey if unavailable.
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