Go Back
+ servings
Recipe 6f50d3b9ee

Ruth’s-Style Seared Ahi Tuna

Steakhouse-inspired seared ahi tuna with a savory crust and a tender, ruby-rare center. Finished with lemon and an optional quick mustard–soy dipping sauce for a light, restaurant-quality, halal-friendly entrée at home.
No ratings yet
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 2 minutes
Total Time 7 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine American, Steakhouse
Servings 2 people
Calories 320 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 2 steaks sushi-grade ahi tuna (about 6 oz each, 1–1½ inches thick)
  • 1 tablespoon avocado oil or refined olive oil, plus more as needed
  • kosher salt, to taste
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon paprika (smoked if preferred)
  • 1/8 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
  • 2 tablespoons white and black sesame seeds (optional, for crust)
  • 1 lemon, cut into wedges
  • 1/4 cup tamari or halal soy sauce (optional dipping sauce)
  • 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard (optional sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon rice vinegar (or lemon juice) (optional sauce)
  • 1 tablespoon honey (or maple syrup) (optional sauce)
  • 1 teaspoon wasabi paste (optional, for kick)
  • 1/2 teaspoon fresh ginger, finely grated (optional sauce)

Instructions
 

  • Pat tuna steaks very dry with paper towels. Brush lightly with oil so seasonings adhere.
  • In a small bowl, mix salt, black pepper, garlic powder, paprika, and cayenne (if using). Sprinkle evenly over both sides of the tuna and pat to help it stick. Roll the edges in sesame seeds if using.
  • Place a cast-iron or heavy skillet over high heat until very hot. Add the remaining oil and swirl until shimmering.
  • Gently lay the tuna in the skillet. Sear 45–60 seconds per side for rare (add 15–20 seconds per side for more doneness). Avoid moving the steaks while searing to form a good crust.
  • Transfer to a cutting board and rest 1–2 minutes. Slice thinly against the grain.
  • Squeeze lemon over the tuna and serve immediately.
  • Optional dipping sauce: In a small bowl whisk tamari or halal soy sauce, Dijon, rice vinegar, honey, wasabi, and ginger until smooth. Serve alongside the tuna for dipping.
  • Serving ideas: Pair with steamed jasmine rice, sautéed spinach, Asian slaw, or cucumber salad.

Nutrition

Serving: 1steakCalories: 320kcalCarbohydrates: 6gProtein: 40gFat: 15gSaturated Fat: 2gSodium: 850mgSugar: 4g
Keyword Halal, High Protein, Low-Carb, Ruth's Style, Seared Ahi Tuna, Weeknight Dinner
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!