Main Courses > Seafood Dishes > Fish > Seared Tuna Steak

Spicy Seared Tuna with Avocado Crema

Elevate your tuna steak game with this recipe featuring a spicy rub and a cool, creamy avocado sauce. The contrast of flavors and textures makes this dish an unforgettable experience.

Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
4-6 minutes
Servings
2
Ingredients
  • 2 (6-8 oz each), about 1 inch thick Tuna Steaks
  • 1 teaspoon Chili Powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon Smoked Paprika
  • 1/4 teaspoon Cumin
  • 1/8 teaspoon (or to taste) Cayenne Pepper
  • 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
  • 1 ripe Avocado
  • 1 tablespoon Lime Juice
  • 2 tablespoons, chopped Cilantro
  • 2 tablespoons Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt
  • to taste Salt
  • to taste Black Pepper

Preparing the Spicy Rub

In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, smoked paprika, cumin, and cayenne pepper. Mix well.

Seasoning the Tuna

Pat the tuna steaks dry with paper towels. Rub the spicy mixture evenly over both sides of the tuna steaks.

Making the Avocado Crema

In a food processor or blender, combine the avocado, lime juice, cilantro, sour cream (or Greek yogurt), salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth and creamy. Add a little water if needed to reach your desired consistency.

Searing the Tuna

Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed skillet over high heat until smoking hot. Add the tuna steaks and sear for 1-2 minutes per side for rare, or slightly longer for medium-rare. The exact cooking time depends on the thickness of the steaks.

Serving

Slice the seared tuna steaks against the grain and serve immediately with the avocado crema. Garnish with extra cilantro or a sprinkle of chili powder, if desired.

Nutrition Facts Estimated per 100g of product

Calories: 200kcal, Protein: 25g, Fat: 10g, Carbohydrates: 3g. Note: These values are approximate and can vary based on specific ingredients and cooking methods.

Other Considerations for Nutrition

Avocados are a healthy source of fats. Using Greek yogurt instead of sour cream will reduce the fat content. Adjust the amount of cayenne pepper to control the spiciness.

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FAQ

  • Can I make the avocado crema ahead of time?

    Yes, you can make the avocado crema a few hours in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator and add a squeeze of lime juice to prevent browning.
  • What if I don't like spicy food?

    Reduce or omit the cayenne pepper in the spice rub to control the level of spiciness.
  • Can I grill the tuna instead of searing it?

    Yes, you can grill the tuna. Preheat your grill to high heat and grill for 1-2 minutes per side for rare, or slightly longer for medium-rare.