Grilled Tuna Steaks with Mango Salsa
Grilled Tuna Steaks with Mango Salsa is a vibrant and flavorful recipe that pairs perfectly seared, tender tuna with a zesty, sweet mango salsa. This dish offers a fresh, healthy, and elegant meal ideal for summer dining or any occasion when you want a light, nutritious seafood dinner bursting with color and taste.
- Author: Elena
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 6 minutes
- Total Time: 21 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Appetizers
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Tuna Steaks
- 4 firm, sashimi-grade fresh tuna steaks (about 6 oz each)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt, to taste
- Black pepper, to taste
- Optional: Splash of lime juice or favorite spices
Mango Salsa
- 1 ripe mango, finely diced
- 1/2 red bell pepper, finely diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely diced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime (about 1–2 tablespoons)
- Pinch of salt
- Prepare the Mango Salsa: Finely dice the ripe mango, red bell pepper, and red onion. In a bowl, combine these with chopped fresh cilantro, lime juice, and a pinch of salt. Mix gently and let the salsa rest for at least 15 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Marinate the Tuna Steaks: Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Brush all sides with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper. For added flavor, optionally add a splash of lime juice or your preferred spices, keeping it simple to highlight the tuna.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. A properly heated grill ensures a quick sear that locks in moisture and flavor without overcooking the tuna.
- Grill the Tuna Steaks: Place the tuna steaks on the hot grill. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes per side for medium-rare doneness, turning carefully with a spatula. Adjust cooking time based on thickness and desired doneness.
- Serve with Mango Salsa: Transfer the grilled tuna to a serving platter and top with the mango salsa or serve it on the side. The combination of smoky tuna and bright salsa creates a memorable flavor experience.
Notes
- Use fresh, firm tuna steaks with bright color and no discoloration for the best texture and taste.
- Do not overcook the tuna; medium-rare is ideal to keep it tender and juicy.
- Ensure the grill is clean and hot before cooking to prevent sticking and to achieve perfect sear marks.
- Allow the mango salsa to rest for at least 15 minutes after mixing to enhance flavor melding.
- Add lime juice gradually to the salsa to avoid overpowering acidity.
- Leftover tuna and salsa should be stored separately in airtight containers and refrigerated for up to 2 days.
- Freeze only uncooked tuna steaks tightly wrapped for up to 3 months; mango salsa is best fresh and should not be frozen.
- Reheat tuna gently over low heat or enjoy cold; avoid overheating to maintain texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 tuna steak with mango salsa
- Calories: 320
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 250mg
- Fat: 15g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 12g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 55mg
Keywords: Grilled tuna steaks, mango salsa, seafood recipe, healthy dinner, summer meals, quick recipe, gluten free, high protein