Description
This Mediterranean Grilled Tuna Steaks recipe offers a simple yet flavorful way to enjoy fresh tuna with a zesty marinade and a hearty cannellini bean salad. Perfectly grilled to tender perfection, the tuna steaks are infused with garlic, lemon, and olive oil, paired with a refreshing bean salad for a wholesome and light meal inspired by Mediterranean cuisine.
Ingredients
Tuna Marinade
- 2 Yellowfin tuna steaks (about 3/4-1 inch thick)
- 1/2 cup Olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic (finely minced)
- 1 Lemon (juiced)
- 1 tsp Kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
Bean Salad
- 30 ounces Canned cannellini beans (rinsed and drained)
- 1 cup Tomatoes (quartered)
- 1/2 cup Red onion (thinly sliced)
- 1/4 cup Olive oil
- 1/2 Lemon (juiced)
- 1/2 tsp Kosher salt (plus more to taste)
- 1/4 tsp Garlic (finely minced)
- 1/4 tsp Black pepper
Garnish
- Lemon wedge (for garnish)
- Large leaf lettuce (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Tuna Steaks: In a large ziplock bag, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Add Tuna to Marinade: Place the tuna steaks into the ziplock bag, seal it, and gently rub the marinade all over the steaks ensuring even coating.
- Refrigerate: Place the sealed bag in the refrigerator to marinate for 30 minutes up to one hour to infuse flavors.
- Prepare the Bean Salad: In a large bowl, combine the rinsed cannellini beans, quartered tomatoes, thinly sliced red onion, olive oil, lemon juice, kosher salt, minced garlic, and black pepper.
- Toss Salad: Gently toss all ingredients together until well mixed. Set aside on the counter.
- Preheat the Grill or Grill Pan: For outdoor grilling, brush grill grates with olive or vegetable oil and preheat over medium heat for 10 minutes, leaving one side without charcoal or flame. For indoor cooking, brush the grill pan with oil and preheat over medium heat for 10 minutes.
- Grill Tuna Steaks: Place the tuna steaks on the cooler side of the grill or on the grill pan. Cook for 3 minutes on each side for a nice sear and medium-rare doneness.
- Rest the Tuna: Remove the tuna steaks from heat and cover with aluminum foil to rest and retain juices.
- Assemble and Serve: On a large platter, optionally lay down lettuce leaves, spread the bean salad evenly on top, then gently place the grilled tuna steaks over the beans. Squeeze a lemon wedge over the tuna steaks for extra zest.
- Serve Immediately: Serve the dish while warm to enjoy the fresh, vibrant flavors.
Notes
- Marinating the tuna for up to one hour enhances flavor without overpowering the natural taste.
- Grilling on the cooler side of the grill prevents flare-ups and overcooking.
- Adjust grilling time according to steak thickness and preferred doneness.
- Bean salad can be made ahead and kept at room temperature for up to 2 hours.
- Use fresh lemon juice for the best vibrant flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mediterranean