This Ahi Tuna Tartare recipe brings together the fresh and delicate flavors of sushi grade tuna with a bright and zesty dressing. The fresh tuna is diced into cubes and tossed in a flavorful mix of sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and lime juice. It has the perfect balance of umami and citrusy flavors.
As a cookbook author and recipe developer, I love recipes like this that showcase simple, high-quality ingredients. When you start with fresh tuna and balance it with the right flavors, you can create a beautiful appetizer that looks impressive but takes only minutes to prepare.
This ahi tuna tartare recipe is fresh, vibrant, and perfect for entertaining or serving as a light appetizer.
If you are looking for more appetizer recipes, check out our: Italian Baked Ricotta Dip with Garlic, Boursin Stuffed Mushrooms, Ahi Tuna Salad, Fried Goat Cheese Balls, or Roasted Chili Corn Salsa.
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Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Restaurant Quality:Â This ahi tuna tartare tastes just like something you'd order at a great seafood restaurant, but it's easy to make in your own kitchen.
- Fresh and Light:Â The clean flavor of sushi-grade tuna paired with a bright dressing creates a dish that feels fresh, balanced, and not too heavy.
- Quick to Prepare:Â Because there's no cooking involved, this recipe comes together in about 10 minutes once your ingredients are prepped.
- Elegant Presentation:Â Tuna tartare looks beautiful plated and makes an impressive appetizer for dinner parties or special occasions.
How to Cut Tuna for Tartare
Use a very sharp knife to cut the tuna into small cubes, about ¼-inch in size. Cutting the tuna evenly helps create the best texture and presentation.
For the cleanest cuts, slice the tuna against the grain and avoid pressing too hard with the knife.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you will need for this tuna recipe. Using the highest quality, freshest ingredients in this recipe is key!
- Tuna: Use sushi-grade tuna to ensure it is safe to eat raw. Look for a fresh, bright colored tuna steak from a reputable source like your local fishmonger or a quality grocery store seafood counter.
- Sesame oil: Sesame oil adds so much flavor to this recipe, plus the oil adds a delicious smooth texture to the dish. If you don't like the flavor of sesame, you could use less sesame oil and substitute with extra virgin olive oil.
- Soy sauce: I highly recommend using good quality soy sauce instead of just reaching for the cheapest available. I always buy mine from a local Asian market!
- Rice vinegar: I recommend the same as above for rice vinegar. Look for a high quality rice vinegar, not just the cheapest option!
- Lime juice:Â Use freshly squeezed lemon juice for the best fresh flavor.
- Sesame seeds:Â Use white, black or a combination of the two.
- Fresh avocado or cucumber slices:Â For serving.
Directions
Let's make this easy tuna tartare together!
Step 1
Using a very sharp knife, dice the ahi tuna steaks into ¼ inch cubes and place them in a medium bowl.
Step 2
In a small bowl, whisk together the sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and lime juice. Pour the sauce over the tuna and gently mix until evenly coated.
Step 3
Top the tuna with sesame seeds and serve alongside avocado and cucumber.
Is It Safe to Eat Raw Tuna?
Tuna tartare is safe to eat when made with sushi-grade tuna purchased from a reputable fish market. Sushi-grade fish is handled and frozen according to guidelines that help reduce the risk of parasites.
If you're unsure, ask your fishmonger whether the tuna is safe for raw preparation.
Expert Tips and Tricks
Here are some expert tips to make this fresh fish dish:
- Keep everything cold: It is a good idea to chill your tuna and any bowls you'll be using before preparing. This will help maintain the tuna's freshness and texture.
- Taste as you go:Â Before serving, I like to taste the mixture and adjust the seasoning if needed. You might want a little more lime juice or soy sauce depending on your preference.
- Use very sharp knives: A sharp knife helps create clean cuts and prevents the tuna from tearing.
- Dice the tuna evenly: Small, uniform cubes create the best texture.
Kitchen Equipment
Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this fresh ahi tuna tartare. You can find all of these products on Amazon.
- Serving Tray - This set of serving trays is perfect for a variety of different dishes.
Recipe Substitutions/Variations
Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this great recipe.
- Tuna: If you can't find sushi grade ahi tuna, you can substitute it with other types of sushi grade fish like salmon.
- Lime juice: You could use fresh lemon juice as a substitute if you don't have lime on hand.
- Additions: You can add a bit of ginger, green onion, or chili flakes for extra flavor or spice. Include some zest from lime or lemon in the sauce for added fresh flavor.
- Spicy Tuna Tartare: Make this dish spicy by adding sriracha, spicy mayonnaise, or chili oil.
What To Serve With
Here are some recipes to serve alongside this recipe:
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, you can use frozen tuna as long as it's sushi grade. Make sure to thaw it properly in the refrigerator before dicing tol help maintain its texture and freshness. Just be mindful that frozen tuna should be consumed shortly after thawing for the best flavor and safety.
Tuna tartare is a dish made with finely diced raw tuna that's typically seasoned with ingredients like soy sauce, sesame oil, and fresh herbs.
Tuna tartare is usually finely diced and lightly dressed, while poke often uses larger cubes of fish and may include additional toppings.
Besides cucumber or avocado, you could serve crispy wonton chips or rice crackers for some added crunch. A light salad with mixed greens and a citrus vinaigrette also pairs well, as does a refreshing seaweed salad.Â
Absolutely! You can add some diced mango or pineapple for a sweet twist that balances the savory flavors. Fresh herbs like cilantro or chives also make a great addition, adding a burst of freshness. For a little heat, consider mixing in some chopped jalapeños or a drizzle of sriracha sauce!
Recipe Storage and Reheating
Here are storage instructions for this simple appetizer:
- Refrigerator Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container and consume it within 24 hours for the best quality and safety.
- Freezer Storage: Freezing is not recommended.
Other Recipes to Try
This ahi tuna tartare recipe is made with sushi-grade tuna and comes together in about 5 minutes, making it a simple but impressive seafood appetizer.
Easy Ahi Tuna Tartare Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 lb sushi-grade Ahi tuna
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- Sesame Seeds
- Avocado and cucumber for serving
Instructions
- Dice ahi tuna steaks into ¼ inch cubes and place in a medium bowl.
- In a small bowl, combine sesame oil, soy sauce, rice vinegar, and lime juice. Pour the sauce over the tuna and mix.
- Top tuna with sesame seeds and serve with avocado and cucumber.
Did You Make This Recipe?
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