There’s something incredibly refreshing about a dish that brings the ocean’s bounty to your kitchen. Tuna tartare, with its vibrant colors and delicate flavors, not only serves as a feast for the eyes but also a delightful treat for the palate. Whenever friends gather for a casual get-together, I know I can count on this dish to be the star of the table, effortlessly stealing the spotlight.
Perfectly diced sushi-grade tuna mingles with creamy avocado, zesty lime juice, and a hint of spicy wasabi. It’s a symphony of flavors that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen—prepping this tuna tartare takes only 15 minutes! Whether you’re looking to impress on a dinner date or simply want to elevate your weekend snacking with something beyond the usual chips, this recipe has got you covered. Let’s dive into the wonderful world of tuna tartare!
Why You'll Love This Tuna Tartare
- This Tuna Tartare is incredibly easy to make, requiring only 15 minutes of prep time, making it a perfect choice for quick meals.
- The combination of fresh sushi-grade tuna and creamy avocado creates a flavor explosion that will leave your taste buds dancing.
- Its versatility allows you to serve it as an elegant appetizer for parties or a fun addition to casual gatherings with friends.
- Not to mention, its vibrant colors and beautiful presentation make it a visually stunning dish that will impress anyone you serve it to.
Tuna Tartare Ingredients
• Create a fresh and vibrant dish with these simple ingredients!
For the Tartare
- 8 oz sushi-grade tuna – the star of your tuna tartare, ensuring the freshest taste.
- 1 ripe avocado – adds creaminess and balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1 tbsp sesame oil – brings a nutty aroma that enhances the overall dish.
- 2 tbsp fresh lime juice – adds a zesty kick that brightens the tartare.
- 2 tbsp chives – finely chopped for a hint of oniony freshness.
- 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce – provides a savory depth to the mixture.
- 1 tsp wasabi paste – for a subtle heat that complements the tuna perfectly.
How to Make Tuna Tartare
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Dice the sushi-grade tuna into small cubes, about half an inch. Take your time to get uniform pieces for a beautiful presentation and consistent flavor throughout your dish.
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Combine in a mixing bowl the diced tuna, ripe avocado, sesame oil, fresh lime juice, and chopped chives. Gently fold the ingredients, being careful not to mash the avocado, until everything is well-coated and luminous in color.
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Whisk together the soy sauce and wasabi paste in another bowl until smooth. This step will enhance the flavors further, so ensure it’s combined well before adding it to the tuna mixture.
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Incorporate the soy sauce mixture into the tuna and avocado blend. Stir gently to coat everything evenly, creating that harmonious balance of flavors we all crave.
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Plate your tartare elegantly using a ring mold for those special occasions, or use your hands for a more rustic approach. Your artistry will shine regardless!
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Garnish with extra chives or sesame seeds for an added touch of elegance and crunch. Serve immediately with crispy tortilla chips or fresh cucumber slices for a delightful crunch.
Optional: Top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds for added texture.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
How to Store and Freeze Tuna Tartare
Fridge: Store any leftover tuna tartare in an airtight container for up to 2 days. Make sure to cover it well to preserve the freshness and prevent the avocado from browning.
Freezer: Tuna tartare is best enjoyed fresh, but if necessary, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Make sure to store it in a vacuum-sealed bag to prevent freezer burn.
Reheating: Tuna tartare should not be reheated as the texture and flavor will be compromised. Instead, enjoy it straight out of the fridge after its resting period.
Serving Tip: To refresh the flavors, squeeze a bit of lime juice over the thawed tartare before serving, ensuring it tastes fresh and zesty!
Tuna Tartare Variations
Feel free to get creative with this tuna tartare recipe and make it your own!
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Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or sriracha for a fiery twist that elevates the flavor profile. Each bite will ignite your taste buds!
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Citrus Burst: Experiment with orange or grapefruit segments for a refreshing, fruity surprise that complements the savory flavors beautifully.
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Herb Swap: Try swapping chives for fresh dill or cilantro to add an exciting new depth. It gives the dish a whole new personality!
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Mango Delight: Dice fresh mango into the mix for a tropical sweetness that harmonizes with the tuna. The contrast of flavors is simply heavenly.
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Ginger Zing: Incorporate minced fresh ginger for a zesty and aromatic dimension. It adds a punch while enhancing the overall freshness of the tartare.
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Avocado Alternates: For a nutty twist, integrate a tablespoon of pureed tahini instead of avocado; it offers creaminess with a unique flavor.
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Nutty Texture: Sprinkle sesame seeds or finely chopped nuts on top for an added crunch. This creates a delightful contrast with the soft tartare.
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Vegan Version: Substitute the tuna with diced marinated tofu or watermelon for a plant-based alternative that still captures the essence of a tartare dish.
What to Serve with Tuna Tartare?
Elevate your dining experience with these delightful pairings that beautifully complement the fresh flavors of your tartare.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: Perfect for scooping up the tartare, adding a satisfying crunch to each bite.
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Cucumber Slices: Their cool, refreshing taste balances the rich tuna and creamy avocado, creating a lovely contrast.
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Sashi Salad: A mix of thinly sliced veggies adds crispness and bright flavors, enhancing the lightness of the tartare.
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Mango Salsa: The sweetness of mango pairs perfectly with the umami of the soy sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
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Chilled Sauvignon Blanc: This wine’s acidity cuts through the richness, making it a refreshing companion to your dish.
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Sesame Ginger Dressing: Drizzle over a side salad for an extra depth of flavor, echoing the tartare’s sesame notes.
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Edamame Beans: Light and nutritious, these offer a delightful pop, marrying well with the sea-inspired theme.
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Watermelon Mint Salad: Its fresh, juicy notes provide a sweet contrast and can cleanse the palate beautifully.
Make Ahead Options
Preparing your Tuna Tartare in advance is a fantastic way to save time for those busy days! You can dice the sushi-grade tuna and avocado up to 24 hours ahead; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator to prevent browning. Additionally, you can whisk together the soy sauce and wasabi mixture up to 3 days in advance, storing it in a sealed jar. When you’re ready to serve, combine the prepped ingredients, toss them gently to combine, and serve immediately for that fresh flavor. This way, your Tuna Tartare remains just as delicious while allowing you to enjoy more time with your friends or family!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For the best Tuna Tartare, ensure you use sushi-grade tuna to guarantee safety and freshness; always check for a bright color and firm texture.
- When dicing the tuna and avocado, aim for uniform pieces to enhance the overall look and flavor distribution in the dish.
- Be gentle when mixing to maintain the avocado’s integrity; use a folding motion instead of stirring to avoid mashing.
- Serve the tartare immediately after preparation to enjoy the freshest flavors and textures, as letting it sit can result in the avocado browning and losing its vibrant appearance.
Tuna Tartare Recipe FAQs
How do I choose the best sushi-grade tuna for my tartare?
Absolutely! When selecting sushi-grade tuna, look for bright red color and firm, moist texture. If you notice any dullness or dark spots all over, it’s best to pass on it. Ask your fishmonger for the freshest catch available, and don’t hesitate to inquire about the sourcing.
How should I store leftover tuna tartare?
Leftover tuna tartare should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Be sure to cover it well to preserve freshness and prevent the avocado from browning. To keep the flavors vibrant, use lemon or lime juice to toss with any remaining tartare before sealing the container.
Can I freeze tuna tartare?
Very! While tuna tartare is best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze it for up to 1 month. To freeze, carefully place the mixture into a vacuum-sealed bag and ensure there is minimal air to prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
What if my avocado is not ripe enough?
No need to worry! If your avocado is not ripe, you can place it in a brown paper bag at room temperature for 1-2 days to help it ripen faster. Once it’s soft to the touch, you can proceed with your tuna tartare. Just make sure it’s ripe enough to add that creamy texture we all love.
Can I serve tuna tartare to my pet?
It’s not advisable! Tuna is not toxic to pets, but raw fish can expose them to bacteria and parasites. If you’re indulging in this delicious dish, it’s best to stick to pet-friendly snacks for your furry friends.
What should I do if my tartare turns brown?
If your tartare has turned brown, it’s often a sign that the avocado has started to oxidize. While the flavors are still likely fine, if the appearance bothers you, consider adding a little extra lime juice to refresh the dish’s color and flavor. Just remember to enjoy it immediately after preparing for the best experience!
Tuna Tartare
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Dice the sushi-grade tuna into small cubes, about half an inch.
- Combine in a mixing bowl the diced tuna, ripe avocado, sesame oil, fresh lime juice, and chopped chives.
- Whisk together the soy sauce and wasabi paste in another bowl until smooth.
- Incorporate the soy sauce mixture into the tuna and avocado blend.
- Plate your tartare elegantly using a ring mold.
- Garnish with extra chives or sesame seeds for an added touch of elegance.
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