These Seared Ahi Tuna Bowls may not be your typical holiday fare, but they’re packed with bold, refreshing flavors! Perfectly seared tuna pairs beautifully with zesty pineapple salsa, creamy avocado, and a spicy yogurt-mayo sauce, creating a vibrant and satisfying dish. The colorful presentation and light, tropical vibe make it a delightful break from heavier holiday meals. Pair it with today’s advent wine, such as a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a chilled Rosé, for the ultimate festive treat!
Yields: 2 Servings
Ingredients
For the Ahi Tuna
- 2 ahi tuna steaks
- 2 limes, juiced
- 1 tbsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- 2 tsp Dijon mustard
- 1 tbsp sesame seeds
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
For the Pineapple Salsa
- 1 cup pineapple, diced
- ½ small jalapeño, finely chopped
- ¼ cup red onion, diced
- 1 tbsp cilantro, diced
- ½ tbsp chile lime seasoning
- ½ lime, juiced
For the Sauce
- ¼ cup plain Greek yogurt
- ¼ cup lite mayo
- 2 tsp ketchup
- 1 tsp rice vinegar
- 1 tsp sriracha
- ½ tsp soy sauce (or coconut aminos for gluten-free)
- ¼ tsp paprika
- ¼ tsp garlic powder
For the Bowl
- 2 cups Cilantro Lime Rice (prepared in advance)
- ½ avocado, sliced
- ⅔ cup cucumber, diced
- ⅔ cup red bell pepper, diced
- 1 tbsp green onion, diced
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Cook your Cilantro Lime Rice ahead of time to allow it to cool slightly before assembling the bowl.
- Marinate and Sear the Tuna: Place the ahi tuna steaks in a sealable plastic bag. In a small bowl or jar, whisk together lime juice, soy sauce, and Dijon mustard. Pour over the tuna steaks in the bag, seal, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes. Remove the marinated tuna from the bag and sprinkle both sides with sesame seeds. Heat sesame oil in a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat until fragrant. Add the tuna steaks and sear for 30 seconds to 2 minutes per side, depending on your preferred doneness. The center should remain a vibrant reddish color. Let the tuna rest for 2 minutes before slicing thinly.
- Make the Sauce: In a small bowl, whisk together all the sauce ingredients until smooth. Set aside.
- Prepare the Pineapple Salsa: Combine diced pineapple, jalapeño, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and chile lime seasoning in a medium bowl. Stir until evenly mixed.
- Assemble the Bowls: Dice the red bell pepper, cucumber, and avocado. Slice the green onions. Divide the Cilantro Lime Rice evenly between two bowls. Top with sliced ahi tuna, pineapple salsa, diced vegetables, and avocado. Drizzle with the prepared sauce and garnish with green onion.
Pair with Advent Day 16 Wine for a refreshing meal. Cheers to a festive and flavorful feast!